Designation: G1.5.6 — 1.

9faMdai d Pi auflcu fur

Operating Xenon Arc Light Apparatus for Exposure of Non-
Metallic Materials*
This standard is issued under the fixed designation G155; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (c) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the Depanment of Defense.

1. Scope* responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-

1.1 This practice covers the basic principles and operating priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
procedures for using xenon arc light and water apparatus bility of regulatory limitations prior to use.
intended to reproduce the weathering effects that occur when 1.5.1 Should any ozone be generated from the operation of
materials are exposed to sunlight (either direct or through the lamp(s), it shall be carried away from the test specimens
window glass) and moisture as rain or dew in actual use. This and operating personnel by an exhaust system.
practice is limited to the procedures for obtaining, measuring, 1.6 This practice is technically similar to the following ISO
and controlling conditions of exposure. A number of exposure documents: ISO 4892-2, ISO 11341, ISO 105 B02, ISO 105
procedures are listed in an appendix; however, this practice B04, ISO 105 B05, and ISO 105 B06.
does not specify the exposure conditions best suited for the
material to be tested. 2. Referenced Documents

None 1—Practice G151 describes performance criteria for all exposure 2.I ASTM Standards:2
devices that use laboratory light sources. This practice replaces Practice D3980 Practice for Interlaboratory Testing of Paint and
G26, which describes very specific designs for devices used for xenon-arc Related Materials (Withdrawn 1998)3
exposures. The apparatus described in Practice G26 is covered by this D5870 Practice for Calculating Property Retention Index of
practice. Plastics
1.2 Test specimens are exposed to filtered xenon arc light E691 Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to
under controlled environmental conditions. Different types of Determine the Precision of a Test Method
xenon arc light sources and different filter combinations are G26 Practice for Operating Light-Exposure Apparatus
described. (Xenon-Arc Type) With and Without Water for Exposure
1.3 Specimen preparation and evaluation of the results are of Nonmetallic Materials (Discontinued 2001) (With-
covered in ASTM methods or specifications for specific drawn 2000)'
materials. General guidance is given in Practice G151 and ISO G113 Terminology Relating to Natural and Artificial Weath-
4892-1. More specific information about methods for deter- ering Tests of Nonmetallic Materials
mining the change in properties after exposure and reporting Gl 5 1 Practice for Exposing Nonmetallic Materials in Accel-
these results is described in Practice D5870. erated Test Devices that Use Laboratory Light Sources
2.2 CIE Standards:
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as CIE-Publ. No. 85: Recommendations for the Integrated Ir-
standard. No other units of measurement are included in this
radiance and the Spectral Distribution of Simulated Solar
standard. Radiauon for Testing Purposes^
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the
so ety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
' For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contact ASTM Customer Service at serviceHastm.org. For Annual Book of ASTI i
' This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee G03 on Weathering Standards volume information, refer to the standard's Document Summary page on
and Durability and is the direct responsibility of Subconunittee G03.03 on the ASTM website.
Simulated and Controlled Exposure Tests. ' The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
Current edition approved June 1, 2013. Published August 2013. Originally www.astm.org.
approved in 1997. Last previous edition approved in 2005 as G155 — 05a DOI: • Available from American National Standards Institute, 11 W. 42d St., 13th
10.1520/G0ISS-13. Floor, New York, NY 10036).

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard

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2.3 International Standards Organization L'tandards: 4.J Comparison of results obtained from specimens exposed
ISO 1134 Paint and Varnishes—Artificial Weathering Expo- in the same model of apparatus should not be made unless
sure to Artificial Radiation to filtered Xenon Arc Radia- reproducibility has bccn established nmong deviccs for thc
tion’ material to be tested.
ISO 105 B02 Textiles—Tests for Colorfasmess—Part B02
4.4 Comparison of results obtained from specimens ••r•••*
Coloi4asuiess to Ai tilicial Lib . Lemon Ate Fading Lamp
in different models of apparatus should not be made unless
Test
correlation has been established among devices for the material
ISO 105 B04 Textiles—Tests for CoIorfastness—Part B04
to be tested.
Colorfastness to Artificial Weathering: Xenon Arc Fading
Lamp Test
5. Sibiiificance and Use
ISO 105 B05 Textiles—Tests for Colorfastness—Part B05
Detection and Assessment of Photochromism 5.1 The use of this apparatus is intended to induce property
ISO 105 B06 Textiles—Tests for Colorfastness—Part B06 changes associated with the end use conditions, including the
Colnrfa.stness tn Artificial I.ight at High Temperatures: effects of sunlight, moisture, and heat. These exposures may
Yennn Am Farting I 'arnP Test inr:1›\rlf• a mean,s In intrnfl\Jr:e mnistnre tn the test Specimen.
ISO 4892-1 Plastics—Methods of Exposure to Laboratory Exposures are not intended to simulate the deterioration caused
Light Sources, Pan 1, General Guidance’ by localized weather phenomena, such as atmospheric
ISO 4892-2 Plastics—Methods of Exposure to Laboratory pollution, biological attack, and saltwater exposure.
Light Sources, Part 2, Xenon-Arc Sources’ Alternatively, the exposure may simulate the effects of sunlight
2.4 Society of Automotive Engineers’ Standards: through window glass. Typically, these exposures would in-
SAE J24l2 Accelerated Exposure of Automotive Interior clude moismre in the form of humidity.
Trim Components Using a Controlled Irradiance Xenon- Now 2—Caution: Refer to Practice G151 for full cautionary guidance
Arc Apparatus6 applicable to all laboratory weathering devices.
SAE J2527 Accelerated Exposure of Automotive Exterior
5.2 Variation in results may be expected when operating
Materials Using a Controlled Irradiance Xenon-Arc Ap-
conditions are varied within the accepted limits of this practice.
paratus 6
Therefore, no reference shall be made to results from the use of
this practice unless accompanied by a report detailing the
3. Terminology specific operating conditions in conformance with the Report
3.1 Definitions—The definitions given in Terminology Section.
G113 are applicable to this practice. 5.2.1 It is recommended that a similar material of known
3.2 Definitions of Teimis Specific to This Standard: performance (a control) be exposed simultaneously with the
3.2.1 As used in this practice, the term sunlight is identical test specimen to provide a standard for comparative purposes.
to the terms daylight and solar irradiance, global as they are It is best practice to use control materials known to have
defined In Terminology G113. relatively poor and good durability. It is recommended that at
least three replicates of each material evaluated be exposed in
4. Summary of Practice each test to allow for statistical evaluation of results.
4.1 Specimens are exposed to repetitive cycles of light and 6. Apparatus
moisture under controlled environmental conditions.
4.1.1 Moismre is usually produced by spraying the test 6.1 Laboratory Light Source—The light source shall be one
specimen with demineralized/deionized water or by condensa- or more quartz jacketed xenon arc lamps which emit radiation
tion of water vapor onto the specimen. from below 270 nm in the ultraviolet through the visible
spectrum and into the infrared. In order for xenon arcs to
4.2 The exposure condition may be varied by selection of: simulate terrestrial daylight, filters must be used to remove
4.2.1 Lamp filter(s), short wavelength UV radiation. Filters to reduce irradiance at
4.2.2 The lamp's irradiance level, wavelengths shorter than 310 rim must be used to simulate
4.2.3 The type of moisture exposure, daylight filtered through window glass. In addition, filters to
4.2.4 The timing of the light and moisture exposure, remove infrared radiation may be used to prevent unrealistic
4.2.5 The temperature of light exposure, heating of test specimens that can cause thermal degradation
4.2.6 The temperamre of moisture exposure, and not experienced during outdoor exposures.
4.2.7 The timing of a light/dark cycle. 6.1.1 The following factors can affect the spectral power
distribution of filtered xenon arc light sources as used in these
apparatus:
Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI). 25 W. 43rd St., 6.1.1.1 Differences in the composition and thickness of
4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org.Available from American filters can have large effects on the amount of short wavelength
National Standards Institute (ANSI), 75 W. 43rd St., 4th Floor, New York, NY UV radiation transmitted.
10036.
Available from SAE International (SAE), 400 Commonwealth Dr., Warrendale, 6.1.1.2 Aging of filters can result in changes in filter
PA 15096-0001, http://www.sae.org. transmission. The aging properties of filters can be influenced

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 G155 — 13
TABLE 1 Relative Ultraviolet Spectral Power Distribution TABLE 2 Relative Ultraviolet Spectral Power Distribution
Specification for Xenon Arc, with Daylight Filters"^ Specification for Xenon-Arc with Window Glass Filters“'“
Spectral Bandpass Minimum Benchmark Solar Maximum Window Glass Filtered
Spectral Bandpass Minimum Maximum
Wavelength \ in nm Percent“ Radiation Percent“'”^ Percent“ Solar Radiation
Wavelength \ in nm Percent“ Percent“
1 < 290 0.15 Percent"' ^
290 \ s 320 2.6 5.8 7.9 1<300 0.0 0.29
320 < 1 s 360 28.3 40.0 40.0 300s \s ?20 01 < 0.5 2.8
.?60 s 7. “- 40? *4.2 5'1.2 67.6 320< 1 • 360 "3.8 34.2 3 .5
360< \ 1400 62.5 65.3 76.1
“Data in Table 1 are the irradiance in the given bandpass expressed as a
percentage of the total irradiance from 290 to 400 nm. The manufacturer is ^ Data in Table 2 are the irradiance in the given bandpass expressed as a
responsible for determining conformance to Table 1. Annex AI stales how to percentage of the total irradiance from 300 to 400 nm. The manufacturer is
determine relative spectral irradiance. responsible for determining conformance to TaDIe 2. Annex A1 states how to
^ The data in Table 1 are based on the rectangular integration of 112 spectral determine relative spectral irradiance.
power distributions for water and air cooled xenon-arcs with daylight filters of ^ The data in Table 2 are based on the rectangular integration of 36 spectral power
various lots and ages. The spectral power distribution data is for filters and distributions for water cooled and air cooled xenon-arcs with window glass filters
xenon-burners within the aging recommendations of the device manufacturer. The of various lots and ages. The spectral power distribution data is for filters and
minimum and maximum data are at least the three sigma limits from the mean for xenon-burners within the aging recommendations of the device manufacturer. The
all measurements. minimum and maximum data are at least the three sigma limits from the mean for
“The minimum and maximum columns will not necessarily sum to 100 % because all measurements.
they represent the minimum and maximum for the data used. For any individual * The minimum and maximum columns will not necessarily sum to 100 % because
spectral power distribution, the calculated percentage for the bandpasses in Table they represent the minimum and maximum for the data used. For any indivâtual
1 will sum to 100 %. For any individual xenon-lamp with daylight filters, the spectral power distribution, the calculated percentage for the bandpasses in Table
calculated percentage in each bandpass must fall within the minimum and 2 will sum to 100 %. For any individual xenon-lamp with window glass filters, the
maximum limits of Table 1. Test results can be expected to differ between calculated percentage in each bandpass must fall within the minimum and
exposures using xenon arc devices in which the spectral power distributions differ maximum limits of Table 2. Test results can be expected to differ between
by as much as that allowed by the tolerances. Contact the manufacturer of the exposures using xenon arc devices in which the spectral power distributions difier
xenon-arc devices for specific spectral power distribution data for the xenon-arc by as much as that allowed by the tolerances. Contact the manufacturer of the
and filters used. xenon-arc devices for specific spectral power distribution data for the xenon-arc
^ The benchmark solar radiation data is defined in ASTM G177 and is for and filters used.
atmospheric conditions and altitude chosen to maximize the fraction of short “The window glass filtered solar data is for a solar spectrum with atmospheric
wavelength solar UV. This data is provided for comparison purposes only. conditions and altitude chosen to maximize the fraction of short wavelength sotar
Previous versions of this standard used solar radiation data from Table 4 of CIE UV (defined in ASTM G177) that has been filtered by window glass. The glass
Publication Number 85. See Appendix X4 for more information comparing the transmission is the average for a series of single strength window glasses tested
solar radiation data used in 1his standard with that for CIE 85 Table 4. as part of a research study for ASTM Subcommittee G3.02.^ While this data is
^ For the benchmark solar spectrum, the UV irmdiance (290 to 400 nm) is 9.8 % provided for comparison purposes only, it is desirable for a xenon-arc with window
and the visible irradiance (400 to 800 nm) is g0J % expressed as a percentage of glass filters to provide a spectrum that is a close match to this window glass filtered
the total irmdiance from 290 to 800 nm. The percentages of UV and visible solar spectrum.
irradiances on samples exposed in xenon arc devices may vary due to the number “Previous versions of this standard used window glass filtered solar radiation data
and reflectance properties of specimens being exposed. based on Table 4 of CIE Publiation Number 85. See Appendix X4 for more
information comparing the solar radiation data used in the standard with that for
CIE 85 Table 4.
^Forthe benchmark window glass fikered solar spectrum, the UV inadiance (300
to 400 nm) is BE % and the visible irradianoe (400 to 800 nm) is 91.8 % expressed
as a percentage of the total irradianoe from 300 to 800 nm. The pementages of UV
by the composition. Aging of filters can result in a significant and visible irmdiances on samples exposed in xenon arc devices with window
reduction in the short wavelength UV emission of a xenon glass filters may vary due to the number and reflectance properties of specimens
burner. being exposed, and the UV transmission of the window glass fikers used.
6.1.1.3 Accumulation of deposits or other residue on filters
can effect filter transmission.
6.1.1.4 Aging of the xenon burner itself can result in
changes in lamp output. Changes in lamp output may also be a simulation of sunlight filtered through window glass. Table 2
caused by accumulation of dirt or other residue in or on the shows the relative spectral power distribution limits for xenon
burner envelope. arcs filtered with window glass filters. The spectral power
6.1.2 Follow the device manufacturer's instructions for distribution of xenon arcs with new or pre-aged filters shall
recommended maintenance. comply with the requirements specified in Table 2.
6.1.3 Spectral Irradiance of Xenon Arc with Daylight 6.1.5 Spectral Irradiance of Xenon Arc With Extended UV
filters—Filters are used to filter xenon arc lamp emissions in NiJrers—Filter that transmit more short wavelength UV are
a simulation of terrestrial sunlight. The spectral power distri- sometimes used to accelerate test result. Although this type of
bution of xenon arcs with new or pre-aged filters7" shall filter has been specified in some tests, they transmit significant
comply with the requirements specified in Table 1. radiant energy below 300 nm (the typical cut-on wavelength
6.1.4 Spectral Irradiance of Xenon Arc Wirfi Window Glass for terrestrial sunlight) and may result in aging processes not
differs—Filters are used to filter xenon arc lamp emissions in occurring outdoors. The spectral irradiance for a xenon arc
with extended UV filters shall comply with the requirements of
Table 3.
* Ketola, W., Skogland, T., Fischer, R., “Effects of Filter and Burner Aging on the
Spectral Power Distribution of Xenon Axc Lamps," Durability Testing of Non-
Metallic Ii/taterials, ASTM STP J294, Robert Herding, Editor, ASTM, Philadelphia,
1995. • Ketola, W., Robbins, J. S., “UV Transmission of Single Strength Window
®
Searle, N. D., Giesecke, P., Kinmonth, R., and Hirt, R. C.. “ Ultraviolet Spectral Glass," Accelerated and Outdoor Durability Testing of Organic Materials, ASTM
Distributions and Aging Characteristics of Xenon Arcs and Filters," Applied Optics, STP 1202, Warren D. Ketola and Douglas Grossman, Editors, ASTM, Philadelphia,
Vol. No. 8, 1964, pp. 923—927. 1993.

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TABLE 3 Relative Ultraviolet Spectral Power Distribution is recommended. If a radiometer is used, it shall comply with
Specification for Xenon Arc with Extended UV Filters‘'^ the requirements in Practice ASTM G151.
Spectral Bandpass Minimum Benchmark Solar Maximum
Wavelength \ in nm Percent“ Radiation Percent“'“^ Percent“ 6.5 Thermometer—Either insulated or un-insulated black or
250s \< 290 0.1 0.7 white panel thermometers may be used. Thermometers shall
290 s \ s 320 5.0 5.8 11.0 conform to the descriptions found in Practice G151. The type
320 < \ 360 32.3 40,0 37.0
360 < \ -s 400 52.0 54.2 62.0 of tliei‘inonieter used, the method of inouiitiiig oii specimen
“Data in Table 3 are the irradiance in the given bandpass expressed as a
holder, and the exposure temperature shall be stated in the test
percentage of the total irradiance from 250 to 400 nm. The manufacturer is report.
responsible for determining conformance to Table 3. Annex AI states how to 6.5.1 The thermometer shall be mounted on the specimen
determine relative spectral irradiance.
The data in Table 3 are based on the rectangular integration of 81 spectral power rack so that its surface is in the same relative position and
distributions for water cooled and air cooled xenon-arcs with extended UV filters of subjected to the same influences as the test specimens.
various lots and ages. The spectral power distribution data is for filters and
xenon-burners within the aging recommendations of the device manufacturer. The
6.5.2 Some specifications may require chamber air tempera-
minimum and maximum data are at least the three sigma limits mom the mean for ture control. Positioning and calibration of chamber air tem-
all measurements. perature sensors shall be in accordance with the descriptions
”The minimum and maximum columns will not necessarily sum to 100 % because
they represent the minimum and maximum for the data used. For any individual
found in Practice G151.
spectral power distribution, the calculated percentage for the bandpasses in Table 6.6 Moisture—The test specimens may be exposed to mois-
3 will sum to 100 %. For any individual xenon-arc lamp with extended UV filters,
the calculated percentage in each bandpass must fall within the minimum and ture in the form of water spray, condensation, immersion, or
maximum limits of Table 3. Test results can be expected to differ between high humidity.
exposures using xenon arc devices in which the spectral power distributions differ
by as much as that allowed by the tolerances. Contact the manufacturer of the
6.6.1 Water Spray—The test chamber may be equipped with
xenon-arc devices for specific spectral power distribution data for the xenon-arc a means to introduce intermittent water spray onto the front or
and filters used. the back of the test specimens, under specified conditions. The
“The benchmark solar radiation data is defined in ASTM G177 and is for
atmospheric conditions and altitude chosen to maximize the fraction of short spray shall be uniformly distributed over the specimens. The
wavelenght solar UV. This data is provided for comparison purposes only. spray system shall be made from corrosion resistant materials
“Previous versions of this standard used solar radiation data from Table 4 of CIE that do not contaminate the water employed.
Publication Number 85. See Appendix X4 for more infomation comparing the
solar radiation data used in the standard with that for CIE 85 Table 4. 6.6.1.1 Quality of Water for Sprays and Immersion—Spray
^ For the benchmark solar spectrum, the UV irradiance (290 to 400 nm) is 9.8 % water must have a conductivity below 5 pS/cm, contain less
and the visible irradiance (400 to 800 nm) is 90.2 % expressed as a percentage of
the total irradiance from 290 to 800 nm. The percentages of UV and visible than 1-ppm solids, and leave no observable stains or deposits
irradiances on samples exposed in xenon arc devices may vary due to the number on the specimens. Very low levels of silica in spray water can
and reflectance properties of specimens being exposed. cause significant deposits on the surface of test specimens.
Care should be taken to keep silica levels below 0.1 ppm. In
addition to distillation, a combination of deionization and
6.1.6 The actual irradiance at the tester's specimen plane is reverse osmosis can effectively produce water of the required
a function of the number of xenon burners used, the power quality. The pH of the water used should be reported. See
applied to each, and the distance between the test specimens Practice G I S I for detailed water quality instructions.
and the xenon burner. If appropriate, report the irradiance and 6.6.1.2 Condensation—A spray system designed to cool the
the bandpass in which it was measured.
specimen by spraying the back surface of the specimen or
6.2 Test Chamber—The design of the test chamber may specimen substrate may be required when the exposure pro-
vary, but it should be constructed from corrosion resistant gram specifies periods of condensation.
material and, in addition to the radiant source, may provide for 6.6.2 Relative Humidity—the test chamber may be
means of controlling temperature and relative humidity. When equipped with a means to measure and control the relative
required, provision shall be made for the spraying of water on humidity. Such instruments shall be shielded from the lamp
the test specimen, for the formation of condensate on the radiation.
exposed face of the specimen or for the immersion of the test 6.6.3 Water Immersion—The test chamber may be equipped
specimen in water. with a means to immerse specimens in water under specified
6.2.1 The radiation source(s) shall be located with respect to conditions. The immersion system shall be made from corro-
the specimens such that the irradiance at the specimen face sion resistant materials that do not contaminate the water
complies with the requirements in Practice G151. employed.
6.3 Instrument Calibration—To ensure standardization and 6.7 Specimen Holders—Holders for test specimens shall be
accuracy, the instruments associated with the exposure appa- made from corrosion resistant materials that will not affect the
ratus (that is, timers, thermometers, wet bulb sensors, dry bulb test results. Corrosion resistant alloys of aluminum or stainless
sensors, humidity sensors, UV sensors, radiometers) require steel have been found acceptable. Brass, steel, or copper shall
periodic calibration to ensure repeatability of test results. not be used in the vicinity of the test specimens.
Whenever possible, calibration should be traceable to national 6.7.1 The specimen holders are typically, but not
or international standards. Calibration schedule and procedure necessarily, mounted on a revolving cylindrical rack that is
should be in accordance with manufacturer's instructions. rotated around the lamp system at a speed dependent on the
6.4 Radiometer—The use of a radiometer to monitor and type of equipment and that is centered both horizontally and
control the amount of radiant energy received at the specimen vertically with respect to the exposure area.

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6.7.2 Specimen holders may be in the form of an open 9.5.1 If irradiance at positions farthest from the center of the
frame, leaving the back of the specimen exposed, or they may exposure area is between 70 and 90 to of that measured at the
provide the specimen with a solid backing. Any backing used center, one of the following three techniques shall be used for
may affect test results and shall be agreed upon in advance specimen placement.
between the interested parties. 9.5.1.1 Periodically reposition specimens during the expo-
fi.7.3 Specimen holders may rotate on thcir own oxis. Whcn ,u u puriod to ensure that each receives an equal amount of
these holders are used, they may be filled with specimens radiant exposure. The reposiuoning schedule shall be agreed
placed back to back. Rotation of the holder on its axis upon by all interested parties.
alternately exposes each specimen to direct radiation from the 9.5.1.2 Place specimens only in the exposure area where the
xenon burner. irradiance is at least 90 to of the maximum irradiance.
6.8 Apparatus to Assess Changes in Properties—Vie the 9.5.1.3 To compensate for test variability, randomly position
apparatus required by the ASTM or other standard that replicate specimens within the exposure area that meets the
describes determination of the property or properties being irradiance uniformity requirements as defined in section 9.5.1.
monitored.
9.6 Inspection—If it is necessary to remove a test specimen
7. Test Specimen for periodic inspection, take care not to handle or disturb the
test surface. After inspection, the test specimen shall be
7.1 Refer to Practice G151.
returned to the test chamber with its test surface in the same
8. Test Conditions orientation as previously tested.
8.1 Any exposure conditions may be used as long as the 9.7 Apparatus Maintenance—The test apparatus requires
exact conditions are detailed in the report. Appendix XI lists periodic maintenance to maintain uniform exposure conditions.
some representative exposure conditions. These are not neces- Perform required maintenance and calibration in accordance
sarily preferred and no recommendation is implied. These with manufacturer's instructions.
conditions are provided for reference only.
9.8 Expose the test specimens for the specified period of
9. Procedure exposure. See Practice G151 for further guidance.
9.I Identify each test specimen by suitable indelible 9.9 At the end of the exposure, quantify the appropriate
marking, but not on areas to be used in testing. properties in accordance with recognized international stan-
dards and report the results in conformance with Practice
9.2 Determine which property of the test specimens will be
G151.
evaluated. Prior to exposing the specimens, quantify the
appropriate properties in accordance with recognized interna- Not MPeriods of exposure and evaluation of test results are
tional standards. If required (for example, destructive testing), addressed in Practice G151.
use unexposed file specimens to quantify the property. See
Practice D5870 for detailed guidance. 10. Report
9.3 Mounting of Test Specimens—Annch the specimens to 10.1 The test report shall conform to Practice G151.
the specimen holders in the equipment in such a manner that
the specimens are not subject to any applied stress. To assure 11. Precision and Bias
uniform exposure conditions, fill all of the spaces, using blank
panels of corrosion resistant material if necessary. 11.1 Precision:
11.1.1 The repeatability and reproducibility of results ob-
Norx 3—Evaluation of color and appearance changes of exposed tained in exposures conducted according to this practice will
materials must be made based on comparisons to unexposed specimens of vary with the materials being tested, the material property
the same material which have been stored in the dark. Masking or
shielding the face of test specimens with an opaque cover for the purpose being measured, and the specific test conditions and cycles that
of showing the effects of exposure on one panel is not recommended. are used. In round-robin studies conducted by Subcommittee
Misleading results may be obtained by this method, since the masked G03.03, the 60° gloss values of replicate PVC tape specimens
portion of the specimen is still exposed to temperature and humidity that exposed in different laboratories using identical test devices
in many cases will affect results. and exposure cycles showed significant variability. The vari-
9.4 Exposure to Test Condinons—Program the selected test ability shown in these round-robin studies restricts the use of
conditions to operate continuously throughout the required “absolute specifications” such as requiring a specific property
number of repetitive cycles. Maintain these conditions level after a specific exposure period.
throughout the exposure. Intemiptions to service the apparatus 11.1.2 If a standard or specification for general use requires
and to inspect specimens shall be minimized. a definite property level after a specific time or radiant
9.5 Specimen Repositioning—Periodic repositioning of the exposure in an exposure test conducted according to this
specimens during exposure is not necessary if the irradiance at practice, the specified property level shall be based on results
the positions farthest from the center of the specimen area is at obtained in a round-robin that takes into consideration the
least 90 9• of that measured at the center of the exposure area. variability due to the exposure and the test method used to
Irradiance uniformity shall be determined in accordance with measure the property of interest. The round-robin shall be
Practice G151. conducted according to Practice E691 or Practice D3980 and

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 G155 — 13

shall include a statistically representative sample of all labo- according to this practice have not been established through
ratories or organizations who would normally conduct the round-robin testing, performance requirements for materials
exposure and property measurement. shall be specified in terms of comparison (ranked) to a control
11.1.3 If a standard or specification for use between two or material. The control specimens shall be exposed simuItane-
three parties requires a definite property level after a specific ously with the test specimen(s) in the same device. The specific
time or radiant exposure in an exposure test conducted accord- Control material used shall be agreed upon by the concerned
ing to this practicc, thc spccified property level shall he based ies. Expose replicates of the test specimen and the control
nn statistical analysis of i remits rd › i »‹ « pq; ¿ p 3pccimcn so thnt 3tftti3tlcolly 3ignificnnt pcrformnncc differ

expeftmeflt u.86d to determine the npecihcotion shall lake l^ ° 11.2 Brat—Bias cannot be determined because no accept-
consideration the variability due to the exposure and the test ablc standard wcathcring rcfcrcncc matcrials arc available.
method used to measure the property of interest.
11.1.4 The round-robin studies cited in 11.1.1 demonstrated 12. Keywords
that the gloss values for a series of materials could be ranked 12.1 accelerated; accelerated weathering; durability; expo-
with a high level of reproducibility between laboratories. When sure; laboratory weathering; light; lightfastness; non-metallic
reproducibility in results from an exposure test conducted materials; temperature; ultraviolet; weathering; xenon arc

ANNEX

A1. DETERMINING CONFORMANCE TO RELATIVE SPECTRAL POWER DISTRIBUTION TABLES

(Mandatory Information for Equipment Manufacturers)

Al.1 Conformance to the relative spectral power distribu- sured shall be no greater than 270 rim. For determining
tion tables is a design parameter for xenon-arc source with the conformance to the relative spectral irradiance requirements
different filters provided. Manufacturers of equipment claiming for a xenon-arc with extended UV filters, measurement from
conformance to this standard shall determine conformance to 250 nm to 400 rim is required. The total irradiance in each
the spectral power distribution tables for all lamp/filter com- wavelength bandpass is then summed and divided by the
binations provided, and provide information on maintenance specified total UV irradiance according to Eq Al.1. Use of this
procedures to minimize any spectral changes that may occur equation requires that each spectral interval must be the same
during normal use. (for example, 2 rim) throughout the spectral reg2on used.
Al.2 The relative spectral power distribution data for this
standard were developed using the rectangular integration
technique. Eq Al.1 is used to determine the relative spectral x J00 (A 1.1)
irradiance using rectangular integration. Other integration tech-
niques can be used to evaluate spectral power distribution data,
but may give different results. When comparing relative where:
spectral power distribution data to the spectral power distribu- relative irradiance in percent,
tion requirements of this standard, use the rectangular integra- irradiance at wavelength Z; (irradiance steps must be
tion technique. equal for all bandpasses),
A lower wavelength of wavelength bandpass,
Al.3 To determine whether a specific lamp for a xenon-arc B upper wavelength of wavelength bandpass,
device meets the requirements of Table 1, Table 2, or Table 3, C lower wavelength of total UV bandpass used for calcu-
measure the spectral power distribution from 250 rim to 400 lating relative spectral irradiance (290 rim for daylight
rim. Typically, this is done at 2 rim increments. If the manu- filters, 300 nm for window glass filters, or 250 rim for
facturer's spectral measurement equipment cannot measure extended UV filters), and
wavelengths as low as 250 nm, the lowest measurement wavelength at which irradiance was measured.
wavelength must be reported. The lowest wavelength mea-

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APPENDIXES

(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. APPARATUS WITH AIR-COOLED XENON ARC LAMPS

XI.1 Thin tent uppui utus uses wire or more aif-coolcd xentin X 1.2 Thr i‘ailial it in sysl ei ii t:i›i i,sisl s i if sillier ‹.one c›r more
arc lamps as the source of radiation. Diffcrcnt type and xc•iion-mc lamps, depending on the type of apparatus. A
' ''' •' ‹' '} 's '.'l.'eratinR in different \vaitqfl0 ldlic0n“ il10\' hc,nt-n hanrlaiup ‹y ti- n› rn iji 1 • u ‹i rl
be utilized iii different sizes and types of apparatus.

X2. APPARATUS WITH WATER-COOLED XENON ARC LAMPS

X2.1 The test apparatus uses a water-cooled xenon arc lamp the necessary accessories. To cool the lamp, distilled or
as the source of radiation. Different size lamps operating in deionized water is circulated over the burner tube and then
different wattage ranges may be utilized in different sizes and directed out of the lamp between the inner and outer glass
types of apparatus. filters.
X2.2 The xenon-arc lamp used consists of a xenon burner
tube, an inner filter of glass or quartz, an outer glass filter, and

X3. EXPOSURE CONDITIONS

X3.1 Any exposure conditions may be used, as long as the temperature. The specimen temperature permissible for the accelerated
exact conditions are detailed in the report. Following are some test depends on the material to be tested and on the aging criterion under
consideration.
representative exposure conditions. These are not necessarily
Not X3.6-The relative humidity of the air as measured in the test
preferred and no recommendation is implied. These conditions chamber is not necessarily equivalent to the relative humidity of the air
are provided for reference only (see Table X3.1). very close to the specimen surface. This is because test specimens having
Nez X3.1—These exposure conditions are brief summaries of the varying colors and thicknesses may be expected to vary in temperature.
actual exposure procedures. Consult the applicable test method or material
specification for detailed operating instructions and procedures. Historical X3.2 Unless otherwise spec2fied, operate the apparatus to
convention has established Cycle 1 as a very commonly used exposure
cycle. Other cycles may give a better simulation of the effects of outdoor maintain the operational fluctuations specified in Table X3.2
exposure. Cycle 3 has been used for exterior grade textile materials. Cycle for the parameters in Table X3.1. If the actual operating
4 has been used for indoor plastics. Cycles 5 and 6 have been commonly Conditions do not agree with the machine settings after the
used for indoor textile materials. Cycle 7 has been used for automotive equipment has stabilized, discontinue the test and correct the
exterior materials. Cycle 8 has been used for automotive interior cOm O• cause of the disagreement before continuing.
nents.
Nora X3.2—Cycle 7 corresponds to the test cycles specified in SAE Now X3.7—Set points and operational fluctuations could either be
J2527. Cycle 8 corresponds to the test cycles specified in SAE J2412. listed independently of each other, or they could be listed in the format:
Consult the appropriate test procedure for detailed cycle descriptions, Set point * operational fluctuations. The set point is the target condition
operating instructions, and a description of the filters used in this for the sensor used at the operational control point as programmed by die
application. The filter system specified in these procedures is characterized user. Operational fluctuations are deviations from the indicated set point at
in 6.1.4. the control point indicated by the readout of the calibrated control sensor
Norz X3.3—More complex cycles may be programmed in conjunction during equilibrium operation and do not include measurement uncertainty.
with dark periods that allow high relative humidities and the formation of At the operational control point, the operational fluctuation can exceed no
condensate at elevated chamber temperatures. Condensation may be more than the listed value at equilibrium. When a standard calls for a
produced on the face of the specimens by spraying the rear side of the particular set point, the user programs that exact number. The operational
specimens to cool them below the dew point. fluctuations specified with the set point do not imply that the user is
Now X3.4-For special tests, a high operating temperature may be allowed to program a set point higher or lower than the exact set point
desirable, but this will increase the tendency for thermal degradation to specified..
adversely influence the test results.
Now X3.5—Surface temperature of specimens is an essential test X3.3 For conversion of test cycles from G26 to G155 see
quantity. Generally, degradation processes accelerate with increasing Table X3.3.

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 G155 — 13
TABLE X3.1 Common Exposure Conditions
Cycle Filter Irradiance Wavelength Exposure Cycle
Daylight 0.35 W/(m’ nm) 340 nm 102 min light at 63°C black panel temperature
18 min light and water spray (air temp. not controlled)

daylight 0.35 W/(m’- mil) 340 wn 102 min light at 63°C black panel temperature
18 min light and water spray (air temp. not controlled) repeated nine times for
a total of 18h;
followed by 6 h dark at 95 (+4.0) % RH, at 24°C black panel temperature

Daylight 0.35 W/(m*• nm) 340 nm 1.5 h light, 70 % RH, at 77°C black panel temperature
0.5 h light and water spray (air temp. not controlled)

4 Window Glass 0.30 W/(m"- nm) 340 nm 100 % light, 55 % RH, at 55°C black panel temperature

5 Window Glass 1.10 W/(m*- nm) 420 nm 102 min light, 35 % RH, at 63°C black panel temperature
18 min light and water spray (air temp. not controlled)

6 Window Glass 1.10 W/(m* nm) 420 nm 3.8 h light, 35 % RH, at 63 °C black panel temperature
1 h dark, 90 % RH, at 43 ° C black panel temperature

Extended UV 0.55 W/(m"-nm) 340 nm 40 min light, 50 % RH, at 70 (-u2) °C black panel temperature and 47 (+2) °C
chamber air temperature
20 min light and water spray on specimen face
60 min light, 50 % RH, at 70 (-c2) °C black panel temperature; and 47 (u-2) °C
chamber air temperature
60 min dark and water spray on specimen front and back, 95 % RH, 38 (W)
°C black panel temperature and 38 (-c2) °C chamber air temperature
7A Daylight 0.55 W/(m*-nm) 340 nm 40 min light, 50 (+5.0) % RH, at 70 (-c2) °C black panel temperature and 47
(-c2') °C chamber air temperature
20 min light and water spray on specimen face;
60 min light, 50 % RH, at 70 (-c2) °C black panel temperature; and 47 (-r2) °C
chamber air temperature
60 min dark and water spray on specimen front and back, 95 % RH, 38 (C)
°C black panel temperature and 38 (C) °C chamber air temperature
Extended UV 0.55 W/m*-nm 340 nm 3.8 h light, 50 % RH, at 89 (z3) °C black panel temperature and 62 (+2) °C
chamber air temperature
1.0 h dark, 95 % RH, at 38 (-r2) °C black panel temperature and 38 (-c2) °C
chamber air temperature

Daylight 180 W/m* 300-400 nm 102 min light at 63°C black panel temperature
18 min light and water spray (temperature not controlled)

10 Window Glass 162 W/m* 30 00 nm 100 % light, 50 % RH, at 89°C black panel temperature
11 Window Glass 1.5 W/(m*- nm) 420 nm Continuous light at 63°C black panel temperature, 30 % RH
12 Daylight 0.35 W/(m* nm) 340 nm 18 h consisting of continuous light at 63°C black panel temperature 30 % RH
6 h dark at 90 % RH, at 35°C chamber air tem[af8tufe

TABLE X3.2 Operational Fluctuations on Exposure Conditions

Maximum Allowable Deviations from
the Set Point at the Control Point
Parameter Indicated by the Readout of the
Calibrated Control Sensor
During Equilibrium Operation
Black Panel Temperature -I-2.5°C
Chamber Air Temperature W°C
Relative Humidity z10 %
Irradiance (monitored at 340 nm) -z0.02 W/ (m*- nm)
Irradiance (monitored at 420 nm) -e0.02 W/ (m*- nm)
Irradiance (monitored at 300-400 nm) -r2 W/m*

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TABLE X3.3 Conversion of Test Cycles from G26 to G155
G26 Test Cycle Description for Corresponding Test Cycle In G155
G26, Method A — Continuous light with Three cycles in G155, Table X3.1 use
intermittent water spray continuous light and the same water
spray times as the conditions described
in G26, Method A
The following test cycle is the only spe-
cific condition described

102 min light only (uninsulated black Cycle 1 uses daylight filters with 340
panel temperature at 63 z 3°C nm irradiance controlled at 0.35W/
m"/nm (the suggested minimum 340
nm irradiance for daylight filters in G26,
Method A)
18 min light + water spray
The type of filter and realtive humidity Cycle 5 uses window glass filters with
during the light period are not specified 420 nm irmdiance controlled at 1.10W/
m*/nm (the suggested minimum 340
nm irradiance for window glass filters in
G26 is 0.7W/m*/nm
Cycle 9 uses daylight filters and 540
nm irradiance controlled at 1.55
W/m*/nm (180 W/m*/nm from 300—400
nm).

GZ6 - Metnod B —alternate exposure G155, Table X3.1 describes several

to light and dark and intermiflent eKpo- specific cycles that combine IighVdark
sure to water spray periods with periods of water spray

No specific light/dark/water cycle de- Cycle 2 in Table X3.1 has has an 18h
scribed light period using the same conditions
described in G26, Method A followed
by a 6 h dark period at a very high re-
altive humidity
The only conditions during the light pe-
riod that are described are those of
Method A. The length of dark period is
not specified, nor are temperature or
relative humidity conditions during the
dark period.

G26 - Method C — continuous expo- G155, Table X3.1, Cycle 11

sure to light with no water spray

Uses window glass filters

Uninsulated black panel temperature is
63 3°C, relative humidity is 10 z 5 %
Typical irradiance is 1.5 W/m*/nm

G26 — Method D —alternate exposure G153, Table X3.1 Cycle 12

to light and darkness without water
spray
No specific peñods of light/dark are
described
Type of filter not specified
Irradiance is not specified. Suggested
minimum irradiance is 0.35 W/m* at
340 nm with daylight filters or 0.7 W/m*
at 420 nm with window glass filters
RH controlled to 35 z 5 % during light
period
Dark cycle requires a dry bulb tempera-
ture of 35 3°C and 90 5 % RH

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 G155 — 13
TAI3LE X3.4 Comparison ot Basic Atmospheric Conditions Used
for Benchmark Solar Spectrum and CIE 85 Table 4 Solar
Spectrum
Atmospheric Benchmark CIE 85 Table 4 Solar Spectrum
Condition Solar Spectrum
Ozone (atm-cm) 0.30 0.34
Precipitable water vapor (cm) 0.57 1.42
Altitude (m) 2000 0
Tilt angle 37° facing Equator 0° (horizontal)
Air mass 1.05 1.00
Albedo (ground reflectance) Light Soil wavelength Constant at 0.2
dependent
Aerosol extinction Shettle & Fenn Rural Equivalent to Linke
(humidity dependent) Turbidity factor of
about 2.8
Aerosol optical thickness at 0.05 0.10
500 nm

TABLE X3.5 Irradiance and Relative Irradiance Comparison for

Benchmark Solar Spectrum and CIE 85 Table 4 Solar Spectrum
Bandpass Benchmark CIE 85 Table 4 Solar Spectrum
Solar Spectrum
Irmdiance (W/m*) in stated bandpass
K<290 0.000 0.000
290 1s 320 3.748 4.060
320< 1 360 25.661 28.450
360< 1 -s 400 34.762 42.050
290 \s 400 64.171 74.560
290 1 -s 800 652.300 678.780
Percent of 290 to 400 nm irradiance
1< 290 0.0 % 0.0 %
290< k 320 5.8 % 5.4 %
320< 1s 360 40.0 % 38.2 %
360< 1s 400 54.2 % 56.4 %
Percent of 290 to 800 nm irradiance
290 X 400 9.8 % 11.0 %

X4. COMPARISON OF BENCHMARK SOLAR UV SPECTRUM AND CIE 85 TABLE 4 SOLAR SPECTRUM

X4.1 This standard uses a benchmark solar spectrum based lating solar spectral irradiance.
on atmospheric conditions that provide for a very high level of
solar ultraviolet radiation. This benchmark solar spectrum is X4.2 Previous versions of this standard used CIE 85 Table 4
published in ASTM Gl77, Standard Tables for Reference Solar as the benchmark solar spectrum. Table X3.4 compares the
Ultraviolet Spectral Distributions: Hemispherical on 37 degree basic atmospheric conditions used for the benchmark solar
Tilted Surface. The solar spectrum is calculated using the spectrum and CIE 85 Table 4 solar spectrum.
SMARTS2 solar radiation model.1°""'2 ASTM Adjunct X4.3 Table X3.5 compares irradiance (calculated using
ADJG0173, SMARTS2 Solar Radiation Model for Spectral rectangular integration) and relative irradiance for the bench-
Radiation provides the program and documentation for calcu- mark solar spectrum and CIE 85 Table 4 solar spectrum, in the
bandpasses used in this standard.
'° Gueymard, C., “Parameterized Transmittance Model for Direct Beam and
Circumsolar Spectral Irradiance,” Solar £ziergy, Vol 71, No. S, 2001, pp. 325-346. “Myers. D. R., Emery, K. and Gueymard, C., “Revising and Validating Spectral
’' Gueymard, C. A., Myers, D., and Emery. K., ‘Proposed Reference Irradiance Irradiance Reference Standards for Photovoltaic Performance Evaluation,” Trans-
Spectra for Solar Energy Systems Testing," Solar Energy, Vol 73, No 6, 2002, pp. actions of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Journal of Solar Energy
443-467. Engineering, Vol 126, pp 567-574, Feb. 2004.

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SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Committee G03 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue (G155 —
05a) that may impact the use of this standard. (Approved June 1, 2013.)

(I) Deleted obsolete Referenced Documents from listings in (4) Changed allowable operational fluctuation in Table X3.2
2.1 Society of Automotive Engineers' Standards and Note X3.7 for humidity control from *5%ñ to 10%,- harmonized with
(SAE J 1885 and SAE 11960). other industry standards.
(2) Harmonized 5.2.1 with other industry standards. (5) Added “Summary of Changes.”
(3) Table X3.1: Harmonized format for all cycles; harmonized
Cycle 2 with PracGtice 152; corrected Cycle 7; deleted
redundant operational fluctuations; deleted unnecessary “unin-
sulated” descriptors for black panel temperature; harmonized
with Terminology G3.

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