Photostabilitätstests

Photostabilitätstests, also known as light stability testing, are a crucial part of product development and quality control across various industries, particularly pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and materials science. These tests are designed to evaluate how a substance or product degrades when exposed to light, specifically ultraviolet (UV) and visible light. The primary objective is to determine if light exposure causes undesirable changes in the product's physical properties, chemical composition, or performance. This can include changes in color, potency, efficacy, or the formation of harmful byproducts.

The methodology typically involves exposing samples to controlled light sources that mimic natural sunlight or artificial lighting conditions. Different light intensities and exposure durations are used to simulate various real-world scenarios. Analytical techniques such as spectrophotometry, chromatography, and microscopy are then employed to quantify any degradation. For pharmaceuticals, photostability testing is essential to ensure that drug products remain safe and effective throughout their shelf life, as light can break down active pharmaceutical ingredients. In cosmetics, it prevents discoloration or loss of efficacy in formulations. For materials, it assesses their durability and longevity in outdoor applications. Establishing photostability is often a regulatory requirement for product approval.