Study on the Degradation of Optical Silicone Exposed to Harsh Environments.

Degradation mechanisms of silicone plates under harsh environment conditions are studied in this investigation. Environmental degradation of silicone free form, used as secondary optics in Light Emitting Diode LED lighting lamps and luminaires or any other applications requiring high quality optics being used, has negative implications for the optical performance. Degradation of silicone plates in harsh environment conditions was studied in salt bath and swimming water environments, using different light radiation and temperatures.