ASTM G154-2023 Standard for Fluorescent UV Lamp Irradiation of Non-Metallic Materials.
1. Overview. The ASTM G154-2023 standard specifies a test method for the weathering resistance of non-metallic materials under fluorescent ultraviolet lamp exposure. This standard is applicable to the evaluation of the performance degradation of non-metallic materials, including but not limited to plastics, rubber, coatings, and composites, under the irradiation of fluorescent ultraviolet lamps. Through the test of this standard, the durability and performance retention ability of the material under the irradiation of fluorescent ultraviolet lamp can be determined, which provides a basis for the design and selection of products.
Second, the test principle.
The test principle of the ASTM G154-2023 standard is to expose the specimen to the irradiation of fluorescent ultraviolet lamps, simulate ultraviolet radiation in the natural environment, and conduct regular tests on the specimen to observe changes in its performance. During the test, the appearance, color, physical and chemical properties of the specimen need to be tested to evaluate its durability under fluorescent ultraviolet lamp irradiation.
3. Testing equipment and materials.
1.Fluorescent UV lamps: According to the ASTM G154-2023 standard, fluorescent UV lamps with a wavelength range of 290-400nm should be selected to simulate ultraviolet radiation in sunlight. At the same time, in order to ensure the accuracy and repeatability of test results, fluorescent UV lamps with stable output and good temperature characteristics are required.
2.Specimen grip: A device used to hold the specimen in such a way that the specimen will not move or deform during the test. The design of the grip should fully consider the shape and size of the specimen for easy installation and fixation.
3.Sample box: A container used to place the specimen, which should have good light transmission and ultraviolet resistance. The sample box should be designed to be easy to clean and maintain to ensure that there is no contamination of the specimen during the test.
4.Timer: Used to control the irradiation time and period of the fluorescent UV lamp to ensure that the test is carried out according to the specified time. The accuracy of the timer is critical to the accuracy and repeatability of the test results.
5.Measuring Equipment: Tools and instruments used to detect changes in the performance of test specimens, including but not limited to micrometers, calipers, colorimeters, and gloss meters. The precision and accuracy of the measuring equipment is of great significance for evaluating the performance changes of the specimen.
Fourth, the test steps.
1.Preparation of specimens: Prepare specimens of non-metallic materials of a certain size and shape according to the requirements of the ASTM G154-2023 standard. The number and size of specimens should be determined according to the specific testing needs.
2.Specimen mounting: Install the prepared specimen into the specimen grip to ensure that the specimen is flat, free of bubbles and fits snugly with the fixture. Damage or contamination of the specimen should be avoided during installation.
3.Start the test: Place the fixture containing the specimen into the sample box and initiate the fluorescent UV lamp irradiation. According to the ASTM G154-2023 standard, testing should be performed at a specified period, generally 24 hours or more.
4.Timing testing: In each test cycle, the appearance, color, physical properties and chemical properties of the sample are regularly tested, and the test data is recorded. Testing should be carried out at a specified frequency, generally one or more times per cycle.
5.Result Evaluation: Based on the recorded test data, the durability and performance retention ability of the specimen under fluorescent UV lamp illumination are evaluated. Changes in appearance, color, physical properties, and chemical properties should be considered comprehensively during evaluation, and grading or data processing should be carried out in accordance with the requirements of ASTM G154-2023 standard.
6.Report writing: According to the test data and evaluation results, write the standard test report of fluorescent ultraviolet lamp irradiation of non-metallic materials. The report should include sample information, test conditions, test process, result analysis and conclusions. The format of the report should meet the requirements of the ASTM G154-2023 standard for easy understanding and reference by readers.