Fotodegradació

Fotodegradació is the chemical breakdown of materials by exposure to light. This process is particularly significant for materials exposed to sunlight, such as plastics, dyes, and certain organic compounds in the environment. The energy from photons in light can break chemical bonds within a molecule, leading to fragmentation or alteration of its structure. The rate and extent of fotodegradació depend on several factors, including the intensity and wavelength of the light source, the chemical composition of the material, and the presence of sensitizers or inhibitors. For example, many plastics are designed with UV stabilizers to mitigate the damaging effects of sunlight, preventing them from becoming brittle or discolored over time. In natural environments, fotodegradació plays a role in the decomposition of organic matter and the removal of pollutants. However, it can also lead to the loss of desirable properties in manufactured goods. Understanding fotodegradació is crucial for material science, environmental chemistry, and the preservation of artworks and historical artifacts.