How does the resistance to acid rain vary between PVC and polyethylene materials?

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) and polyethylene are two widely used plastic materials, but their resistance to acid rain varies significantly due to their chemical compositions. PVC exhibits higher resistance to acid rain because of its strong carbon-chlorine bonds, which make it less reactive to acidic conditions. It maintains structural integrity and durability even when exposed to acidic environments over long periods.

On the other hand, polyethylene, especially low-density polyethylene (LDPE), is more susceptible to acid rain. While it resists moisture well, prolonged exposure to acidic conditions can cause surface degradation, cracking, and reduced mechanical strength over time. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) performs better than LDPE but still falls short of PVC's resilience.

In summary, PVC is the superior choice for applications requiring long-term acid rain resistance, while polyethylene may require additional protective coatings or frequent replacement in harsh acidic environments.