ASTM G90-23 PDF

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 4.1 Results obtained from this practice can be used to compare the relative durability of materials subjected to the specific test cycle used. No accelerated test can be specified as a perfect simulation of natural or field exposures. Results obtained from this practice can be considered as representative of natural weathering only when a sufficient magnitude of mathematical correlation exists between exposures. 4.2 The acceleration factor relating the rate of degradation in this accelerated exposure to the rate of degradation in a natural weathering exposure varies with the type and formulation of the material. Each material and formulation may respond differently to the increased level of irradiance and differences in temperature and humidity. Thus an acceleration factor determined for one material may not be applicable to other materials. For this reason, the use of a single acceleration factor is not recommended. Also, a different acceleration factor may be obtained by using different mirror types and configurations. Because of variability in test results for both accelerated and natural weathering exposures, results from a sufficient number of tests must be obtained to determine an acceleration factor for a material. Further, the acceleration factor is applicable to only one exposure location because results from natural weathering will vary due to seasonal or annual differences in climatic factors. 4.3 The relative durability of materials determined by this practice can be used to determine the relative durability of the materials exposed under natural weathering conditions provided the materials have similar acceleration factors. However, even if results from a specific accelerated test condition are found to be useful for comparing the durability of materials exposed in a particular exterior location, it cannot be assumed that they will be useful for determining the relative durability for a different location. The relative durability of materials in n... SCOPE 1.1 Linear Fresnel reflector concentrators using the sun as source are utilized in the accelerated outdoor exposure testing of materials. 1.2 This practice covers a procedure for performing accelerated outdoor exposure testing of materials using a linear Fresnel reflector, accelerated outdoor weathering, test machine. The apparatus (see Fig. 1 and Fig. 2) and guidelines are described herein to minimize the variables encountered during outdoor accelerated exposure testing. 1.3 This practice does not specify the exposure conditions best suited for the materials to be tested but is limited to the method of obtaining, measuring, and controlling the procedures and certain conditions of the exposure. Sample preparation, test conditions, and evaluation of results are covered in existing methods or specifications for specific materials. 1.4 The linear Fresnel reflector accelerated outdoor exposure test apparatus described may be suitable for the determination of the relative durability of materials when these materials are exposed to concentrated sunlight, heat, and moisture. 1.5 This practice establishes uniform sample mounting and in-test maintenance procedures. Also included in the practice are standard provisions for maintenance of the machine and linear Fresnel reflector mirrors to ensure cleanliness and durability. 1.6 This practice shall apply to specimens whose size meets the dimensions of the target board as described in 8.2. 1.7 For test machines currently in use, this practice is not recommended for specimens exceeding 13 mm (1/2 in.) in thickness because of specimen cooling. 1.8 Values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The inch-pound units in parentheses are provided for information only. 1.9 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate...