UV ageing test

This test uses low-pressure UV fluorescent lamps to simulate prolonged exposure to solar radiation, accelerating the degradation of materials. It is a particularly useful technique for evaluating the resistance of plastics, coatings, paints and composite materials in industrial and construction applications. During the test, the sample is subjected to controlled cycles of UV exposure and condensation phases to simulate the alternation between sun and humidity. This allows the detection of yellowing, loss of mechanical properties, opacification and the formation of microcracks on the surface of the material.

Xenon lamps reproduce the solar spectrum more realistically than fluorescent lamps, generating more complete radiation that includes both visible light and infrared. This technique allows for more accurate evaluation of the behaviour of organic materials, such as plastics, coatings, leathers and fabrics, when exposed to direct sunlight. During the test, the samples are subjected to alternating cycles of light exposure and humidity phases, simulating variable atmospheric conditions such as rain, salt spray and temperature variations.

This test combines UV radiation with cycles of exposure to humidity and temperature variations, simulating the most critical environmental conditions that materials may encounter during actual use. The samples are exposed to ultraviolet radiation followed by phases of immersion in controlled humidity or condensation to reproduce the effects of rain, fog and dew.

This test checks the level of photodegradation, yellowing, loss of gloss and reduction in mechanical strength in polymers used in sectors such as automotive, marine, construction and packaging. The tests are conducted in accelerated ageing chambers, where materials are irradiated with controlled UV light and can be subjected to variations in temperature and humidity. The test helps to identify more resistant formulations and optimise the addition of UV stabilisers in plastics to increase their durability.

In the fashion, automotive and furniture industries, the lightfastness of fabrics and leathers is a fundamental parameter for ensuring the quality and aesthetic durability of products. This test analyses the colour fastness and structural integrity of natural and synthetic fabrics, leathers and leather-like materials exposed to UV radiation and environmental variations. During the test, samples are irradiated with artificial light that simulates the sun and may be subjected to humidity cycles to verify the behaviour of the material under real conditions. The aim is to prevent discolouration, loss of elasticity and weakening of the fibres, ensuring compliance with the quality standards required by the industry.