Vacuum bagged soft surfboards have gained significant popularity in recent years due to their durability, flexibility, and user - friendly nature. As a supplier of these innovative surfboards, I often receive questions from surf enthusiasts and retailers alike about the potential impact of UV rays on our products. In this blog, we will delve into the science behind how UV rays affect vacuum bagged soft surfboards and what steps can be taken to mitigate these effects.
Understanding UV Rays and Their Properties
Ultraviolet (UV) rays are a type of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the sun. They are divided into three categories: UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVC rays are mostly absorbed by the Earth's atmosphere and do not reach the surface. However, UVA and UVB rays can have a substantial impact on various materials, including those used in the manufacturing of vacuum bagged soft surfboards.
UVA rays have a longer wavelength and can penetrate deeper into materials. They are responsible for long - term damage such as discoloration, embrittlement, and a reduction in the material's overall strength. UVB rays, on the other hand, have a shorter wavelength and are more intense. They can cause surface damage, including cracking and fading, and can also break down chemical bonds within the material.
Materials Used in Vacuum Bagged Soft Surfboards
Our vacuum bagged soft surfboards are crafted from a variety of high - quality materials. The most common ones include EVA (Ethylene - Vinyl Acetate), IXPE (Cross - linked Polyethylene), and high - density EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) foam.
- EVA: EVA is a soft and flexible material that provides excellent shock absorption. It is commonly used for the deck of soft surfboards. You can check out our High Quality EVA Soft Deck Surfboard for a product that showcases the benefits of EVA.
- IXPE: IXPE is a cross - linked foam that offers enhanced durability and buoyancy. Our High Quality IXPE Boogie Board is made with this great material, providing a smooth and stable surfing experience.
- High - density EPS foam: This foam is used as the core of many soft surfboards, providing a lightweight yet sturdy base. Our High Density EPS Foam Soft Top Surfboard demonstrates the excellent performance of high - density EPS foam.
How UV Rays Affect Different Materials
Impact on EVA
EVA is susceptible to UV damage. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause the EVA to become brittle and lose its flexibility. The material may start to crack, especially in areas that are under stress, such as the edges of the surfboard. Discoloration is also a common issue, with the EVA turning yellow or brown over time. To slow down this process, we use UV - resistant additives during the manufacturing process. However, it is still advisable to store the surfboard in a cool, shaded place when not in use.
Impact on IXPE
IXPE has better UV resistance compared to EVA, but it is not immune to UV damage. UV rays can gradually break down the cross - links in the foam, reducing its strength and buoyancy. The surface of the IXPE may also become rough and start to peel. Similar to EVA, we incorporate UV - stabilizers in the production of IXPE to enhance its resistance to UV rays.
Impact on High - density EPS Foam
High - density EPS foam can be affected by UV rays as well. UV exposure can cause the foam to become more porous, which in turn reduces its strength and increases the risk of water absorption. Once water gets into the foam, it can further deteriorate the structure of the surfboard. We take measures to protect the EPS foam, such as covering it with a UV - resistant outer layer.
Mitigating the Effects of UV Rays
As a supplier, we understand the importance of protecting our surfboards from UV damage. Here are some steps we take during the manufacturing process and some advice we give to our customers:
Manufacturing - side Measures
- Addition of UV - resistant additives: We incorporate UV - stabilizers and absorbers into the materials during the manufacturing process. These additives work by either absorbing the UV rays or preventing the chemical reactions that cause damage.
- Application of protective coatings: We apply a UV - resistant coating to the surface of the surfboards. This coating acts as a barrier, reducing the amount of UV rays that reach the underlying materials.
Customer - side Measures
- Proper storage: Encourage customers to store their surfboards in a cool, shaded place when not in use. A surfboard bag can also provide an extra layer of protection.
- Use of UV - protective sprays: There are commercially available UV - protective sprays that customers can apply to their surfboards periodically. These sprays can help to enhance the UV resistance of the surfboard.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while vacuum bagged soft surfboards are affected by UV rays, the extent of the damage can be minimized through proper manufacturing techniques and customer care. Our company is committed to producing high - quality surfboards that can withstand the harsh effects of UV rays for as long as possible.
If you are interested in purchasing our vacuum bagged soft surfboards or have any questions about UV protection, we welcome you to contact us for further discussion and potential procurement. We look forward to partnering with you to provide the best surfing experience.
References
- ASTM International. "Standard Test Methods for Evaluating the Resistance of Plastics to Environmental Stress Cracking (ESC)." ASTM D543 - 14.
- International Organization for Standardization. "Plastics - Methods of Exposure to Laboratory Light Sources." ISO 4892 - 2:2013.
- Society of Plastics Engineers. "Handbook of Plastics, Elastomers, and Composites." Fourth Edition.
