UV Degradation of Polymer Structure Polymeric construction materials Light weight Low cost Flexibility Once exposed to sunlight Sunlight degradation (surface cracking) The Project focusses on UV degradation mechanism Effect of UV on lifecycle performance of polymeric structure Computer simulation technique (ABAQUS), particularly crack growth modeling Polyethylene water tank[1] Fine cracks within the tank wall[1] UV effect on polymer ductility Crack growth modeling (ABAQUS) [1] http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/engineer/facts/14-007.htm