How Long Do Modern Sails Last ?

[nickjaxe]

Hi all...my first post this forum,

I am not a sailor but into microlight aircraft that use more or less the same sail material for there wings as modern sail boats sails are made from,

In recent years the material does not seem to be as long lasting as the material of say 10 years ago...being badly affected by UV radiation,

Just wondering how modern boat sails compare life span wise in this respect....with aircraft we under go an annual test of the wing material that tests its resistance to ripping....I wonder do sailing boat sails undergo similar testing.

Regards Nick.