Fraunhofer Institute for Building Physics IBP
Fraunhofer Institute for Building Physics IBP

Artificial ageing by combined exposure to radiation, humidity and temperature

Hygrothermics

© Fraunhofer IBP
Measurement Change of material and component properties, e.g. strength, hardness, embrittlement, chalking, fading, transmittance, emissivity, yellowing, geometry
Standards DIN EN 927-6, DIN EN 1297, DIN EN 1898, DIN EN 12224, DIN EN 12543-4, DIN EN 13523-10, DIN EN 75220, DIN EN ISO 4892-1, DIN EN ISO 4892-2, DIN EN ISO 4892-3, DIN EN ISO 11507, DIN EN ISO 11895, DIN EN ISO 11997-2, ASTM D 3424, ASTM D 4329, ASTM D 4587, ASTM D 4799, ASTM D 5071, ASTM D 5208, ASTM D 6695, ASTM G 151, ASTM G 154, ASTM G 155, SAE J2020, prEN 1062-4
Measurement object Organic glasses, films, coatings, paints, plastics, gaskets, sealants, roof linings, bitumen and elastomer roofing sheets, vehicle and façade components

Technical data of individual spectral ranges

UV-A (fluorescent tubes)
Spectral range 300 to 400 nm, max. 340 nm
Irradiation 0.35 to 1.65 W/m² at +35 to +80 °C
Humidity (cyclic) condensing or spraying
Sample size 76 × 152 mm (48 pieces) to
488 × 311 × 25 mm (4 pieces)

Solar (Xenon lamps)
Spectral range 300 to 800 nm
Irradiation 250 to 765 W/m² at +35 to +100 °C
Humidity cyclic underwater storage
Max. sample size 190 × 280 mm


Special features

Reduced testing periods
 By reducing or omitting dark phases and consistently high irradiances typical load durations are 1 to 8 weeks. The testing periods are thus shorter than in outdoor exposure.
Reproducibility Reduced number of variables, therefore, they can be better monitored.
Artificial ageing is more reproducible than natural weathering. Thus, comparisons between different products are easier possible.
Calibration Yes. Traceable reference standards are available.

 

 

 

 

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