How long will ABS last outside?

[ZKARAGOZ 0]

I know ABS is not UV resistant, but how long will it take for it to start turning bad when in sunlight for a few hours a day? 

 

I also have some tough PLA filament, cant find any information on UV resistance about that. Does anyone know? Thanks!

[ahoeben 1,950]

Not all ABS is created equally (really!), so this is hard to say. (Color) additives may play a big role. UV light is also not the only enemy; 3d printed objects can have many nooks and crannies where moisture can build up and either create a nice atmosphere for algae and moss, which may speed up deterioration, or which will lead to mechanical stress when temperatures go below 0.

Edited September 23, 2023 by ahoeben

[DivingDuck 104]

ABS isn't a good choice for outdoor. UV and  weather resistance it is not good in general. Better alternatives for this use case are PETG and ASA. For printing ASA you need a well vented Room as the fumes are not healthy (same as for ABS). I usually print this material outside with an enclosed printer.

Making prints for outside you should take the color of a print as well in consideration. Dark colors have a higher heat absorption then bright colors. Most of the time I choose PETG because easier to print end its better flexibility is often a plus. ASA is more temperature resistent and is from its mechanical properties more close to ABS. You can smooth out surfaces easily with vaporized acetone if needed.