Films of polyamides were exposed to heat, ultraviolet radiant energy, and different
atmospheric conditions. The degradation products were collected in some cases and analyzed by mass spectrometric techniques. The unexposed and exposed specimens were
examined by the following techniques to obtain information concerning the changes in
chemical and physical structure of the polymer: infrared absorption, ultraviolet absorption,viscosity of solutions, measurement of dielectric constant and dissipation factor, photomicrography, X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, electron diffraction, and effect of organic liquids. In addition, pyrolysis studies were made and some physical properties were determined. The results of the investigation show clearly that no single method gives a complete picture but that the results from several of the methods give an insight into the mechanism of degradation of poly ami des.