PVC and UV - concerns?

[sleepygeckos]

Disclaimer: When there is an economy, I'm an engineer not a chemist or MatSci person... but I know that PVC degrades in some way when exposed to UV light. I also know that some people heat, mold, and "burn" PVC to make interesting looking perches and climbing branches. My question is, does anyone know the full extent of the chemical changes of PVC - especially when exposed to UV light or being "burnt" for color change? (I know a lot of PVC is coated on the outside to protect it from UV light, but is that coating safe? It's not like potable water is supposed to be on the outside...)

I'd like to set up more climbing areas in my exo, but it gets some UVB bleed from the leo's light. My husband has been looking at the "burnt" PVC for his future snake, but I'm concerned humidity in those enclosures could leech out any released chemicals. Any input would be appreciated and thanks in advance!

[The Serpent Merchant]

Well it greatly differs on the chemical makeup of the PVC that you are using. For example the Controlled Density PVC using an Animal Plastics cages is completely UV resistant, while the PVC used in schedule 60 pipes isn't. Even still it will differ by the manufacture I'm sure.

You might want to look into a plastic called Ultem® 1000 (PEI) it is completely UV and temperature resistant (up to 340 F without smoke, flame, or mechanical failure)

[AndrewGeibel]

If you really want a high temp polymer that can stand up to heat try to find a "ryton" sheet. That is the plastic that they use to hold cauterizing scalpels. I'm quite certain it would be safe for snakes. Not sure where you would find sheets of it though.

[sleepygeckos]

Thanks for the speedy replies - off to do some searching of your alternatives!

[kitedemon]

I believe most pipes have uv inhibiters added even if they did not the uv degrading takes many years if you just plan on replacing them every 5 years there should be no problems. Many pvc sheet products also have uv inhibitors added to them. I suspect there are very few pvc plastics that do not have additives to protect it. I understand PP is the real problem of plastics and uv.