The CNEP, National Centre for Photoprotection Evaluation, is a technological resource centre, a subsidiary of the University of Clermont Ferrand Auvergne. This R&D centre is dedicated to studying the durability of industrial polymer materials subjected to either luminous or thermal constraints.
Created in 1986, the CNEP carries out studies of chemical evolutions at a macromolecular level after fast-tracked aging in laboratory conditions, using accelerated or ultra-accelerated photoaging chambers of the type SEPAP MHE (ATLAS), in ventilated ovens or climatic chambers (controlled T and RH). The chemical evolutions are studied by IRTF spectrophotometry methods. There are different analytical methods. These are adapted to the geometries of the formulated materials or the parts to be analysed. Changes in appearance (variations in colour, formation of yellowing compounds, etc.) are studied by UV-visible absorption spectrophotometry and spectrofluorimetry.
Since 2012, the CNEP has been involved in projects aimed at optimising the end-of-life management of polymer materials, with a particular focus on their biodegradation. Today, the recycling of polymers, whether petroleum-based or biodegradable, is one of the CNEP research areas.
Website: https://www.cnep-fr.com/
Funders
Our certifications
