Meaning
Slow thermodynamic change in an amorphous or semicrystalline polymer occurs as it moves toward a state of lower free volume below its glass transition temperature. Physical aging happens because polymers quenched from a melt are trapped in a non-equilibrium state with excess internal space. This phenomenon causes the material to become stiffer, more brittle and more prone to stress cracking over time.
It is a reversible process that can be erased by heating the polymer above its glass transition.
Yield Strength
Mechanical properties shift as the yield strength increases while the ductility of the part decreases. A part that was flexible immediately after moulding may become brittle after a few weeks of storage at room temperature. This shift is particularly pronounced in transparent resins like polycarbonate or polystyrene.
Dimensional Stability
Shrinkage continues long after the part has left the mould as the free volume is slowly eliminated. While the majority of shrinkage happens during cooling, physical aging contributes to small, long-term changes that can affect tight-tolerance assemblies. Precision components must be designed with this secondary contraction in mind to avoid fitment issues.
Testing Protocol
Standardized aging times are necessary when comparing the mechanical properties of different resin batches.