Is UV Protection Enough to Stop Color/Ink Fading?
Studies show that UV rays are responsible for about 40% of all color fading. Heat contributes another 25%, and normal visible light accounts for another 25%. The remaining 10% comes from factors like humidity, paper or ink type and weak dye bonding. Both UV and visible light not only fade colors but can also dry out materials.
Example of comic rotations to its next position:
We scanned each comic before and after exposure. Then we checked for changes in RGB values, one of the many ways to quantify color. The bigger the RGB shift, the more the comic faded.
Then, we tracked color changes using total RGB shift.
What is RGB? Red, Blue & Green - these are the colors of light used to create images on screens.
Findings:
Color Fading is observed on all products.
Important points to note:
• All comics were exposed to direct sunlight for 18 consecutive days. This ensured equal sun exposure for every comic, regardless of its position on the rack.
• Outdoor testing means higher heat, humidity, and temperature swings.
Results:
1. Fading can still happen, even with UV protection as UV rays only account for only 40% of the causes of color fading.
2. ComicCapsule had the least fading overall.
3. With equal thickness, BoardBoys products outperformed others. UV additives make a difference compared to unprotected options like toploaders.
Important Reminder:
1. Never store comics in direct sunlight
2. Rotate displayed comics regularly
3. Store in a cool dry place
Aside from UV, there are still 60% of other factors that contribute to color fading.
Data Source for Causes of Color Fade:
https://www.naturalux.com/NaturaLux_Lighting_Filters_Fading.htm
https://www.fsec.ucf.edu/en/consumer/buildings/basics/windows/fading.htm
https://www.sunsationalsolutions.com/2019/04/25/causes-and-effects-of-fading-and-uv-in-the-home/