Six low density polyethylene (LDPE) film types were exposed to accelerated ultraviolet weathering to study the deterioration rates of solid waste products. The sample types varied in color. Some samples contained a polymer photosensitizer, and others a metallic salt pro-oxidant. Deterioration parameters were measured eight times during a 72-hour period; the parameters included tensile strength, percent elongation, and toughness and/or brittleness (energy at break). Pigments directly influenced individual deterioration rates. Variations were caused by certain chemicals in the pigments that are known to activate or initiate polymer breakdown. The copper-phtalocyanine-colored blue film reached the brittle point first. The control film, which contained no pro-oxidants or coloring agents, did not reach the brittle point during the 72-hour test period.