Oxyluminescence from polypropylene

Abstract

Abstract Several polymers emit light when heated in the presence of oxygen. Experimental observations are made concerning the light from polypropylene. The portion of light detectable with a RCA‐5819 photomultiplier tube is blue‐violet in color. When polypropylene is at 180°C. the wavelengths of the light are between 3000 and 5150 A. The intensity of the light is determined by the temperature of the polymer, the concentration of oxygen in contact with the polymer surface, and the concentration and type of antioxidants present. For every photon of light emitted by polypropylene about 10 4 carbonyl groups are formed. The behavior of antioxidants in polypropylene, including concentration and synergistic effects, are illustrated by measurement of this light.