Weathering

Accelerated UV Aging of Materials

UV radiation can cause long-term color changes, embrittlement, cracking, loss of gloss, as well as changes in mechanical and optical properties in many materials.

During accelerated UV aging, test specimens are exposed to a defined level of UV irradiation. Under controlled test conditions, UV-induced material changes can be investigated reproducibly and different materials or material systems can be compared.

BF Engineering develops UV lamps and UV irradiation systems with application-specific irradiance, spectral distribution, and test areas.

The systems are suitable for material development, quality control, as well as research and development applications.

Testing Different Materials and Components

Weathering and UV aging tests can be used for a wide range of materials, components, and surfaces.

Typical applications include:

• Plastics and polymers
• Paints and coatings
• Adhesives and sealants
• Elastomers
• Films and composite materials
• Textiles and technical fabrics
• Automotive components
• Photovoltaic materials
• Electrical and electronic components
• Exterior components and technical surfaces

Depending on the material and application, the UV spectrum, irradiance, UV dose, temperature, and test duration can be adapted to the respective requirements.

Standards for Material Aging and Weathering

Various international standards and test methods are available for artificial weathering and UV aging testing. The relevant standard depends particularly on the material, application, and required aging scenario.

Commonly used standards and standard series in the field of weathering and UV material testing include:

• ISO 4892 – Plastics – Methods of exposure to laboratory light sources
• ISO 16474 – Paints and varnishes – Methods of exposure to laboratory light sources
• ASTM G154 – UV exposure of nonmetallic materials using fluorescent UV lamps
• ASTM G155 – Exposure of nonmetallic materials using xenon arc light apparatus
• ASTM G151 – General guidelines for laboratory light-source exposure
• SAE J2527 – Accelerated exposure of automotive exterior materials
• SAE J2412 – Accelerated exposure of automotive interior materials

The specific design of a test system depends on the applicable standard and the required parameters for radiation spectrum, irradiance, temperature, humidity, test cycle, and exposure duration.

BF Engineering develops irradiation technology for standardized and customized material aging tests.

UV Lamps for Material Aging

BF Engineering develops UV lamps and complete UV irradiation systems for material aging and weathering applications.

Depending on the test specimen, material, and required test area, individual UV lamps or larger irradiation arrays can be used.

For reproducible aging tests, the UV spectrum, irradiance, uniformity, and irradiation dose are particularly important.

The systems can be configured according to the respective test requirements and integrated into different test setups.

UV Emitters for Material Aging Tests

For the targeted UV exposure of materials, BF Engineering offers UV emitters with different power ratings and spectral characteristics.

Depending on the test application, the UV radiation can be adapted to the requirements of the respective material and intended test method. Important parameters include the UV spectrum, irradiance, irradiation dose, and distance from the test specimen.

The UV emitters are suitable for various applications in material aging, UV resistance testing, as well as research and development.

Material Aging for Development and Quality Assurance

Material aging tests are used across numerous industries to examine materials and products under defined exposure conditions during the development process.

Typical application areas include:

• Automotive and transportation
• Photovoltaics and renewable energy
• Plastics and polymer industry
• Paints and coatings
• Adhesives and sealants
• Electronics and technical components
• Textiles and technical fabrics
• Research and material development

BF Engineering provides UV irradiation technology for applications ranging from individual material samples to large components and customized testing applications.