Yes, epoxy can change color in the sun.
How Does Sun Exposure Affect Epoxy Color?
- UV Degradation: Sunlight contains ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can break down the chemical bonds in epoxy resins. This breakdown can lead to yellowing, fading, or even cracking over time.
- Pigment Fading: The pigments used to color epoxy can also fade when exposed to UV light. This is especially true for lighter colors, which are more susceptible to fading.
- Heat: Sunlight can also generate heat, which can further accelerate the degradation process.
Factors Affecting Color Change:
- Epoxy Type: Some epoxy types are more resistant to UV degradation than others.
- Pigment Quality: Higher-quality pigments are more resistant to fading.
- Additives: UV stabilizers and other additives can be added to epoxy to help protect it from the sun.
- Exposure Time: The longer epoxy is exposed to sunlight, the more likely it is to change color.
Protecting Epoxy from Sun Damage:
- UV-Resistant Coatings: Apply a UV-resistant coating over the epoxy to block UV radiation.
- Shade: Keep epoxy out of direct sunlight whenever possible.
- Pigment Selection: Choose pigments that are known to be fade-resistant.
Remember: The extent of color change will depend on the specific epoxy used, the intensity of sunlight, and the duration of exposure.
