Semirigid and plasticized poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) samples, stabilized with epoxidized sunflower oil (ESO), Zn, and Ca stearates, were exposed in Algiers (hot, Mediterranean climate) for 12 months in three sites where the concentrations of atmospheric pollutants (NO,, 03, hydrocarbons) are known. The evolution of the mechanical properties (tensile test and shore D hardness) was followed according to the aging time. The modification structure of polymer was investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The results have shown that all the considered properties were affected. Furthermore, it seems that the 03 exerted the most deleterious effect, followed by hydrocarbons and then by NOx. (C) 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.