The Influence of Weathering Conditions on the Outer Membrane of Biogas with Plasticized PVC : A Study using Non-destructive Tests

The biogas holder is composed of an outer membrane and an inner membrane which are subject to outdoor exposure and gas exposure respectively. The influence of weathering conditions on the photo-degradation of a biogas holder was investigated. Tests were performed under three different methods - outdoor exposure tests (Seosan, Arizona), accelerated tests (Xenon-are lamp) with the outer-membrane of biogas. Moreover, the changes in the aging process were monitored using color difference, gloss, the contact angle and an optical microscope. Changes in physical properties, such as decrease reduction in gloss, decrease in the contact angle, increase in color difference were observed in the aging process. The comparison between membrane 3B, 4B and membrane 5B under xenon-arc were discussed. Membrane 5B was very sensitive to ultraviolet (UV) ray. There were many difficulties in the outdoor exposure test due to acid rain, dust, and stain resistance.