A mechanical test is used to characterize the ageing process of a polymeric solar absorber as a consequence of exposure to high temperature. Specimens from the polymeric absorber sheet were exposed to different temperature and time conditions. Specimens were then tested using mechanical indentation to evaluate the damage level produced. Based on these measurements, this work proposes a model to predict degradation of the polymeric solar absorber during their service life. Model predictions are compared with results from a polymeric absorber exposed to outdoor conditions during two years. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.