Examine components and plastics for light/ colour fastness and photostability with UV and solar radiation testing
Austest Laboratories operates 2 types of accelerated weathering chambers in our Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney facilities, providing full coverage of UV exposure testing requirements depending on what you’re looking to achieve;
Xenon Arc Solar Radiation Chamber
For a reproduction of the full spectrum of sunlight, including ultraviolet, visible light and infrared, combined with water spray and humidity to determine fading and colour change, we suggest using our Xenon Arc Solar Radiation Chamber.
This chamber is also best for testing indoor products, as it is fitted with window glass filters. As this unit can accurately control humidity, it is also ideal for sensitive materials such as textiles and inks.
Click here for more information on standards covered by our Xenon Arc Solar Radiation Chamber.
Short-wave UV Weathering Tester
For determining the degree of strength loss, yellowing, cracking, brittleness and blistering on polymers/plastics and paints, we suggest using our Short-wave UV Weathering Tester. This tester can be operated with or without 100% condensation/humidity.
Click here for more information on standards covered by our Short-wave UV Weathering Tester
Standards covered by the Xenon Arc Solar Radiation Chamber
- IEC 60068-2-5
Solar Radiation
Simulation of the effects of solar radiation on products.
- AATCC TM16
Colorfastness to Light
This test method provides the general principles and procedures which are currently in use for determining the colorfastness to light of textile materials.
- AATCC TM169
Weather Resistance of Textiles: Xenon Lamp Exposure
This test method provides the procedure for the exposure of textile materials of all kinds, including coated fabrics and products made thereof, in an artificial weathering apparatus using controlled conditions of test.
- ASTM C1257
Standard Test Method for Accelerated Weathering of Solvent-Release-Type Sealants
This test method includes two laboratory accelerated exposure procedures for predicting the effects of ultraviolet or ultraviolet/visible radiation, heat, and moisture on color, chalking, cracking, and adhesion of solvent-release sealants.
- ASTM C1442
Practice for Conducting Tests on Sealants Using Artificial Weathering Apparatus
This practice covers three types of laboratory weathering exposure procedures for evaluating the effect of actinic radiation, heat, and moisture on sealants.
- ASTM C1519
Standard Test Method for Evaluating Durability of Building Construction Sealants by Laboratory Accelerated Weathering Procedures
This test method covers the method for the determination of the durability of a sealant based on its ability to function in cyclic movement maintaining adhesion and cohesion after repeated exposure to laboratory accelerated weathering procedures.
- ASTM C732
Standard Test Method for Aging Effects of Artificial Weathering on Latex Sealants
This test method covers a laboratory procedure for the determination of aging effects of artificial weathering on latex sealants.
- ASTM C734
Standard Test Method for Low-Temperature Flexibility of Latex Sealants After Artificial Weathering
This test method covers a laboratory procedure for the determination of low-temperature flexibility of latex sealants after 500 h artificial weathering.
- ASTM C793
Standard Test Method for Effects of Laboratory Accelerated Weathering on Elastomeric Joint Sealants
This test method covers a laboratory procedure for determining the effects of accelerated weathering on cured-in-place elastomeric joint sealants (single- and multi-component) for use in building construction.
- ASTM D1148
Standard Test Method for Rubber Deterioration-Discoloration from Ultraviolet (UV) and Heat Exposure of Light-Colored Surfaces
This test method covers techniques to evaluate the surface discoloration of white or light-colored vulcanized rubber that may occur when subjected to UV or UV/visible exposure from specified sources under controlled conditions of relative humidity, or moisture, and temperature.
- ASTM D1670
Standard Test Method for Failure End Point in Accelerated and Outdoor Weathering of Bituminous Materials
This test method covers the use of a spark generating apparatus for determination of failure due to cracking of bituminous materials undergoing accelerated or outdoor weathering on electrically conductive backings.
- ASTM D2565
Standard Practice for Xenon-Arc Exposure of Plastics Intended for Outdoor Applications
This practice covers specific procedures and test conditions that are applicable for xenon-arc exposure of plastics conducted in accordance with Practices G151 and G155.
- ASTM D3424
Standard Practice for Evaluating the Relative Lightfastness and Weatherability of Printed Matter
This standard describes procedures for the determination of the relative lightfastness and weatherability of printed matter under the following conditions, which involve exposure to natural daylight or accelerated procedures in the laboratory.
- ASTM D3451
Standard Guide for Testing Coating Powders and Powder Coatings
This guide covers the selection and use of procedures for testing coating powders and powder coatings. The test methods included are listed in . Where more than one test method is listed for the same characteristic, no attempt is made to indicate superiority of one method over another. Selection of the methods to be followed must be governed by experience and the requirements in each individual case, together with agreement between the purchaser and the seller.
- ASTM D4101
Standard Specification for Polypropylene Injection and Extrusion Materials
This specification covers polypropylene materials suitable for injection molding and extrusion. Polymers consist of homopolymer, copolymers, and elastomer compounded with or without the addition of impact modifiers (ethylene-propylene rubber, polyisobutylene rubber, and butyl rubber), colorants, stabilizers, lubricants, or reinforcements.
- ASTM D4303
Standard Test Methods for Lightfastness of Colorants Used in Artists’ Materials
Four test methods to accelerate the effects of long term indoor illumination on artists’ materials are described.
- ASTM D4355
Standard Test Method for Deterioration of Geotextiles by Exposure to Light, Moisture and Heat in a Xenon Arc Type Apparatus
This test method covers the determination of the deterioration in tensile strength of geotextiles by exposure to xenon arc radiation, moisture, and heat.
- ASTM D4434
Standard Specification for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) Sheet Roofing
This specification covers flexible sheet made from poly(vinyl chloride) resin as the primary polymer intended for use in single-ply roofing membranes exposed to the weather.
- ASTM D4459
Standard Practice for Xenon-Arc Exposure of Plastics Intended for Indoor Applications
This practice covers specific procedures and test conditions that are applicable for exposure of plastics in window glass-filtered xenon-arc devices in accordance with Practices G151 and G155 for evaluating the stability of plastics intended for use in indoor applications.
- ASTM D4637
Standard Specification for EPDM Sheet Used In Single-Ply Roof Membrane
This specification covers flexible sheet made from ethylene-propylene-diene terpolymer (EPDM) intended for use in single-ply roofing membranes exposed to the weather.
- ASTM D4798
Standard Practice for Accelerated Weathering Test Conditions and Procedures for Bituminous Materials (Xenon-Arc Method)
This practice covers test conditions and procedures for xenon-arc exposures according to Practices G151 and G155 for bituminous roofing and waterproofing materials.
- ASTM D4811
Standard Specification for Nonvulcanized (Uncured) Rubber Sheet Used as Roof Flashing
This specification covers nonvulcanized (uncured) rubber sheet made of EPDM (ethylene-propylene-diene terpolymer) or CR (polychloroprene) intended for use as watertight roof flashing exposed to the weather.
- ASTM D5019
Standard Specification for Reinforced CSM (Chlorosulfonated Polyethylene) Sheet Used in Single-Ply Roof Membrane
This specification covers reinforced non-vulcanized polymeric sheet made from chlorosulfonated polyethylene (CSM) intended for use as a single-ply roof membrane exposed to the weather.
- ASTM D5071
Standard Practice for Exposure of Photodegradable Plastics in a Xenon Arc Apparatus
This practice covers specific procedures and test conditions that are applicable for xenon arc exposure of photodegradable plastics conducted in accordance with Practices G151 and G155.
- ASTM D5383
Standard Practice for Visual Determination of the Lightfastness of Art Materials by Art Technologists
This practice covers a method for exposing specimens of colored art materials indoors to sunlight coming through a closed window.
- ASTM D5398
Standard Practice for Visual Evaluation of the Lightfastness of Art Materials by the User
This practice covers a method for exposing specimens of colored art materials indoors to sunlight coming through a closed window.
- ASTM D5819
Standard Guide for Selecting Test Methods for Experimental Evaluation of Geosynthetic Durability
This guide covers a designer/specifier through a systematic determination of those factors of the appropriate application environment that may affect the post-construction service life of a geosynthetic.
- ASTM D6083
Standard Specification for Liquid Applied Acrylic Coating Used in Roofing
This specification covers liquid-applied water-dispersed acrylic latex elastomeric protective roof coatings.
- ASTM D6551
Standard Practice for Accelerated Weathering of Pressure-Sensitive Tapes by Xenon-Arc Exposure Apparatus
This practice describes one environment for the exposure of pressure-sensitive tape, used primarily for packaging, to a laboratory accelerated weathering environment.
- ASTM D6577
Standard Guide for Testing Industrial Protective Coatings
This guide covers the selection and use of test methods and procedures for testing industrial protective coatings.
- ASTM D6662
Standard Specification for Polyolefin-Based Plastic Lumber Decking Boards
This specification covers polyolefin-based plastic lumber products for use as exterior residential decking boards.
- ASTM D6695
Standard Practice for Xenon-Arc Exposures of Paint and Related Coatings
This practice covers the selection of test conditions for accelerated exposure testing of coatings and related products in xenon arc devices conducted according to Practices G151 and G155.
- ASTM D6878
Standard Specification for Thermoplastic Polyolefin Based Sheet Roofing
This specification covers flexible sheet made from thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) as the principal polymer, intended for use in single-ply roofing membranes exposed to the weather.
- ASTM D7356
Standard Test Method for Accelerated Acid Etch Weathering of Automotive Clearcoats Using a Xenon-Arc Exposure Device
This test method covers an accelerated exposure test intended to simulate defects in automotive clearcoats caused by acid rain that occurs at the Jacksonville, Florida exposure site.
- ASTM D750
Standard Test Method for Rubber Deterioration Using Artificial Weathering Apparatus
This test method covers specific variations in the test conditions and procedures that shall be applicable when Practice G151 plus either Practice G152, G153, G154, or G155 are employed for exposure of vulcanized rubber compounds.
- ASTM D882
Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of Thin Plastic Sheeting
This test method covers the determination of tensile properties of plastics in the form of thin sheeting and films (less than 1.0 mm (0.04 in.) in thickness).
- ASTM D904
Standard Practice for Exposure of Adhesive Specimens to Artificial Light
This practice covers the basic principles and operating procedures for ultraviolet (UV) light aging (with or without water) of adhesive bonded joints having at least one glass or transparent adhered, using fluorescent UV (see Method A) or xenon-arc light sources (see Method B).
- ASTM D925
Standard Test Methods for Rubber Property�Staining of Surfaces (Contact, Migration, and Diffusion)
These test methods cover techniques to evaluate three types of staining that rubber may cause when in contact with, or in proximity to, another surface that may be light colored.
- ASTM F1164
Standard Test Method for Evaluation of Transparent Plastics Exposed to Accelerated Weathering Combined with Biaxial Stress
This test method covers the resistance of transparent plastics exposed to environmental conditioning (accelerated weathering) under a biaxial stress state induced by a pressure cell/test fixture.
- ASTM F2366
Standard Practice for Determining the Relative Lightfastness of Ink Jet Prints Exposed to Window Filtered Daylight Using a Xenon Arc Light Apparatus
This practice covers specific procedures and test conditions that are applicable for xenon-arc exposure of ink jet media prints conducted in accordance with Practices G151 and G155.
- ASTM G151
Practice for Exposing Nonmetallic Materials in Accelerated Test Devices That Use Laboratory Light Sources
This practice provides general procedures to be used when exposing nonmetallic materials in accelerated test devices that use laboratory light sources.
- ASTM G155
Practice for Operating Xenon Arc Light Apparatus for Exposure of Non-Metallic Materials
This practice covers the basic principles and operating procedures for using xenon arc light and water apparatus intended to reproduce the weathering effects that occur when materials are exposed to sunlight (either direct or through window glass) and moisture as rain or dew in actual use.
- GM 9125P
Procedures for Laboratory Accelerated Exposure of Automotive Materials
These procedures are used to determine the resistance to degradation of automotive materials when subjected to artificial light sources. It describes exposures to sunshine carbon arc, xenon arc, fluorescent ultraviolet light and condensation apparatus, and a twin carbon arc.
- IEC 61345
UV Test for Photovaltalic (PV) Modules
- ISO 105-B02 (EN) (DIN)
Textiles-Tests for colour fastness- Part B02: Colour fastness to artificial light: Xenon arc fading lamp test
- ISO 105-B04 (EN) (DIN)
Textiles – Tests for Colour Fastness – Part B04. Colour Fastness to Artificial Weathering: Xenon Arc Fading Lamp Test
- ISO 105-B06 (EN) (DIN)
Textiles – Tests for Colour Fastness – Part B06: Colour Fastness and Ageing to Artificial Light at High Temperatures: Xenon Arc Fading Lamp Test
- ISO 105-B07 (EN) (DIN)
Textiles – Tests for Colour Fastness – Part B07: Colour Fastness to Light of Textiles Wetted with Artificial Perspiration
- ISO 105-B10 (EN) (DIN)
Textiles – Tests for Colour Fastness – Part B10: Artificial Weathering – Exposure to Filtered Xenon-Arc Radiation
- ISO 11341 (EN) (DIN)
Paints and Varnishes – Artificial weathering and exposure to artificial radiation- Exposure to filtered xenon-arc radiation
- ISO 12040
Graphic Technology – Prints and Printing Inks – Assessment of Light Fastness Using Filtered Xenon Arc Light
- ISO 29664
Plastics – Artificial weathering including acidic deposition
- ISO 4892-1 (EN) (DIN)
Plastics – Methods of Exposure to Laboratory Light Sources – Part 1: General guidance
- ISO 4892-2 (EN) (DIN)
Plastics – Methods of Exposure to Laboratory Light Sources – Part 2: Xenon-arc lamps
- SAE J2412
Accelerated Exposure of Automotive Interior Trim Components Using a Controlled Irradiance Xenon-Arc Apparatus. This test method specifies the operating procedures for a controlled irradiance, xenon arc apparatus used for the accelerated exposure of various automotive interior trim components.
- SAE J2527
Performance Based Standard for Accelerated Exposure of Automotive Exterior Materials Using A Controlled Irradiance Xenon-Arc Apparatus
This SAE Standard specifies the operating procedures for a controlled irradiance, xenon-arc apparatus used for the accelerated exposure of various exterior automotive materials.
- VW PV 1306
Exposure Test for Determining the Tackiness of Polypropylene Parts
- VW PV 3929
Non-Metallic Materials, Weathering in Dry, Hot Climate
- VW PV 3930
Non-Metallic Materials, Weathering in Moist, Hot Climate
Standards covered by the Short-wave UV Weathering Tester
- AAMA 624
Voluntary Specification, Performance Requirements and Test Procedures for High Performance Organic Coatings on Fiber Reinforced Thermoset Profiles
This specification describes test procedures and performance requirements for high performance, organic, coatings applied to fiber reinforced thermoset profiles for windows, doors and similar products.
- AATCC TM186
Weather Resistance: UV Light and Moisture Exposure
This test method provides a procedure for the exposure of textile materials of all kinds, including coated fabrics and products made thereof, in a laboratory artificial weathering exposure apparatus employing fluorescent UV lamps as a light source and using condensing humidity and/ or water spray for wetting.
- ASTM C1257
Standard Test Method for Accelerated Weathering of Solvent-Release-Type Sealants
This test method includes two laboratory accelerated exposure procedures for predicting the effects of ultraviolet or ultraviolet/visible radiation, heat, and moisture on color, chalking, cracking, and adhesion of solvent-release sealants.
- ASTM C1442
Practice for Conducting Tests on Sealants Using Artificial Weathering Apparatus
This practice covers three types of laboratory weathering exposure procedures for evaluating the effect of actinic radiation, heat, and moisture on sealants.
- ASTM C1501
Standard Test Method for Color Stability of Building Construction Sealants as Determined by Laboratory Accelerated Weathering Procedures
This test method describes laboratory accelerated weathering procedures using either fluorescent ultraviolet or xenon arc test devices for determining the color stability of building construction sealants.
- ASTM C1519
Standard Test Method for Evaluating Durability of Building Construction Sealants by Laboratory Accelerated Weathering Procedures
This test method covers the method for the determination of the durability of a sealant based on its ability to function in cyclic movement maintaining adhesion and cohesion after repeated exposure to laboratory accelerated weathering procedures.
- ASTM C732
Standard Test Method for Aging Effects of Artificial Weathering on Latex Sealants
This test method covers a laboratory procedure for the determination of aging effects of artificial weathering on latex sealants.
- ASTM C734
Standard Test Method for Low-Temperature Flexibility of Latex Sealants After Artificial Weathering
This test method covers a laboratory procedure for the determination of low-temperature flexibility of latex sealants after 500 h artificial weathering.
- ASTM C793
Standard Test Method for Effects of Laboratory Accelerated Weathering on Elastomeric Joint Sealants
This test method covers a laboratory procedure for determining the effects of accelerated weathering on cured-in-place elastomeric joint sealants (single- and multi-component) for use in building construction.
- ASTM D1148
Standard Test Method for Aging Effects of Artificial Weathering on Latex Sealants
This test method covers techniques to evaluate the surface discoloration of white or light-colored vulcanized rubber that may occur when subjected to UV or UV/visible exposure from specified sources under controlled conditions of relative humidity, or moisture, and temperature.
- ASTM D1670
Standard Test Method for Failure End Point in Accelerated and Outdoor Weathering of Bituminous Materials
This test method covers the use of a spark generating apparatus for determination of failure due to cracking of bituminous materials undergoing accelerated or outdoor weathering on electrically conductive backings.
- ASTM D3424
Standard Practice for Evaluating the Relative Lightfastness and Weatherability of Printed Matter
This standard describes procedures for the determination of the relative lightfastness and weatherability of printed matter under the following conditions, which involve exposure to natural daylight or accelerated procedures in the laboratory.
- ASTM D3451
Standard Guide for Testing Coating Powders and Powder Coatings
This guide covers the selection and use of procedures for testing coating powders and powder coatings. The test methods included are listed in . Where more than one test method is listed for the same characteristic, no attempt is made to indicate superiority of one method over another. Selection of the methods to be followed must be governed by experience and the requirements in each individual case, together with agreement between the purchaser and the seller.
- ASTM D4101
Standard Specification for Polypropylene Injection and Extrusion Materials
This specification covers polypropylene materials suitable for injection molding and extrusion. Polymers consist of homopolymer, copolymers, and elastomer compounded with or without the addition of impact modifiers (ethylene-propylene rubber, polyisobutylene rubber, and butyl rubber), colorants, stabilizers, lubricants, or reinforcements.
- ASTM D4329
Standard Practice for Fluorescent UV Exposure of Plastics
This practice covers specific procedures and test conditions that are applicable for fluorescent UV exposure of plastics conducted in accordance with Practices G151 and G154.
- ASTM D4434
Standard Specification for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) Sheet Roofing
This specification covers flexible sheet made from poly(vinyl chloride) resin as the primary polymer intended for use in single-ply roofing membranes exposed to the weather.
- ASTM D4587
Standard Practice for Fluorescent UV-Condensation Exposures of Paint and Related Coatings
This practice covers the selection of test conditions for accelerated exposure testing of coatings and related products in fluorescent UV and condensation devices conducted according to Practices G151 and G154.
- ASTM D4674
Standard Practice for Accelerated Testing for Color Stability of Plastics Exposed to Indoor Office Environments
This practice covers the basic principles and operating procedures for using fluorescent light to determine color stability of plastics when materials are exposed in typical office environments where fluorescent overhead lighting and window-filtered daylight are used for illumination and where temperature and humidity conditions are in accordance with American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) recommendations for workers’ comfort.
- ASTM D4799
Standard Practice for Accelerated Weathering Test Conditions and Procedures for Bituminous Materials (Fluorescent UV, Water Spray, and Condensation Method)
This practice describes test conditions and procedures for fluorescent UV and condensation exposures conducted according to Practices G151 and G154 for bituminous roofing and waterproofing materials that have a minimum softening point of approximately 95°C (200°F) as determined by Test Method D36.
- ASTM D4811
Standard Specification for Nonvulcanized (Uncured) Rubber Sheet Used as Roof Flashing
This specification covers nonvulcanized (uncured) rubber sheet made of EPDM (ethylene-propylene-diene terpolymer) or CR (polychloroprene) intended for use as watertight roof flashing exposed to the weather.
- ASTM D5208
Standard Practice for Fluorescent Ultraviolet (UV) Exposure of Photodegradable Plastics
This practice covers the specific procedures applicable for fluorescent Ultraviolet (UV) exposure of photodegradable plastics conducted in accordance with Practices G151 and G154.
- ASTM D5894
Standard Practice for Cyclic Salt Fog/UV Exposure of Painted Metal, (Alternating Exposures in a Fog/Dry Cabinet and a UV/Condensation Cabinet)
This practice covers basic principles and operating practice for cyclic corrosion/UV exposure of paints on metal; using alternating periods of exposure in two different cabinets: a cycling salt fog/dry cabinet, and a fluorescent UV/condensation cabinet.
- ASTM D6577
Standard Guide for Testing Industrial Protective Coatings
This guide covers the selection and use of test methods and procedures for testing industrial protective coatings.
- ASTM D750
Standard Test Method for Rubber Deterioration Using Artificial Weathering Apparatus
This test method covers specific variations in the test conditions and procedures that shall be applicable when Practice G151 plus either Practice G152, G153, G154, or G155 are employed for exposure of vulcanized rubber compounds.
- ASTM D882
Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of Thin Plastic Sheeting
This test method covers the determination of tensile properties of plastics in the form of thin sheeting and films (less than 1.0 mm (0.04 in.) in thickness).
- ASTM D904
Standard Practice for Exposure of Adhesive Specimens to Artificial Light
This practice covers the basic principles and operating procedures for ultraviolet (UV) light aging (with or without water) of adhesive bonded joints having at least one glass or transparent adhered, using fluorescent UV (see Method A) or xenon-arc light sources (see Method B).
- ASTM D925
Standard Test Methods for Rubber Property—Staining of Surfaces (Contact, Migration, and Diffusion)
These test methods cover techniques to evaluate three types of staining that rubber may cause when in contact with, or in proximity to, another surface that may be light colored.
- ASTM F1164
Standard Test Method for Evaluation of Transparent Plastics Exposed to Accelerated Weathering Combined with Biaxial Stress
This test method covers the resistance of transparent plastics exposed to environmental conditioning (accelerated weathering) under a biaxial stress state induced by a pressure cell/test fixture.
- ASTM F1945
Standard Practice for Determining the Lightfastness of Ink Jet Prints Exposed to Indoor Fluorescent Lighting
This practice covers an accelerated procedure intended to determine the lightfastness of ink jet prints in office environments where overhead fluorescent light is used for illumination.
- ASTM G151
Practice for Exposing Nonmetallic Materials in Accelerated Test Devices That Use Laboratory Light Sources
This practice provides general procedures to be used when exposing nonmetallic materials in accelerated test devices that use laboratory light sources.
- ASTM G154
Practice for Operating Fluorescent Light Apparatus for UV Exposure of Nonmetallic Materials
This practice covers the basic principles and operating procedures for using fluorescent UV light, and water apparatus intended to reproduce the weathering effects that occur when materials are exposed to sunlight (either direct or through window glass) and moisture as rain or dew in actual usage.
- EN 13523-10 (DIN)
Coil Coated Metals – Test Methods Part 10: Resistance to Fluorescent UV Radiation and Water Condensation
- GM 9125P
Procedures for Laboratory Accelerated Exposure of Automotive Materials
These procedures are used to determine the resistance to degradation of automotive materials when subjected to artificial light sources. It describes exposures to sunshine carbon arc, xenon arc, fluorescent ultraviolet light and condensation apparatus, and a twin carbon arc.
- IEC 61215
Crystalline Silicon Terrestrial Photovaltalic (PV) Modules – Design Qualification and Type Approval
- IEC 61345
UV Test for Photovaltalic (PV) Modules
- ISO 11507 (EN) (DIN)
Paints and Varnishes – Exposure of coatings to artificial weathering- Exposure to fluorescent UV lamps and water
This International Standard specifies exposure conditions for paint coatings exposed to artificial weathering in apparatus including fluorescent UV lamps and condensation or water spray.
- ISO 29664
Plastics – Artificial weathering including acidic deposition
- ISO 4892-1 (EN) (DIN)
Plastics – Methods of Exposure to Laboratory Light Sources – Part 1: General guidance
- ISO 4892-3 (EN) (DIN)
Plastics – Methods of Exposure to Laboratory Light Sources – Part 3: Fluorescent UV Lamps
- SAE J2020
Accelerated Exposure of Automotive Exterior Materials Using a Fluorescent UV and Condensation Apparatus
