ISSN: 1546-962X
Published Online: 10 March 2004
Page Count: 17

Harmonization and Optimization of Weathering Test Methods for Building and Construction Sealants and Adhesives
Searle, ND
Consultant, Deerfield Beach,

(Received 20 December 2002; accepted 4 June 2003)

Abstract

Sealants and adhesives play a vital role in building engineering and are expected to perform well for at least 20 years. However, many fail prematurely, partly because of inadequate information on their long-term resistance to the effects of solar radiation, heat/cold, moisture, atmospheric pollutants and mechanical strain. The laboratory accelerated weathering tests, a necessity for determining in a short time whether products are suitable for the intended use, often fail to identify products with poor in-use performance. The validity of the test results depends on optimization of the test parameters so that aging effects of field conditions on sealants can be closely simulated. Simulation of the spectrum of solar radiation by the artificial light source is a critical factor. Simulation of the temperature, amount and type of moisture and mechanical strain that sealants experience under use conditions is also significant.

Keywords:
ASTM C24 standards, ISO standards, xenon arc, fluorescent UV lamps, carbon arcs, durability, harmonization

Paper ID: JAI11609
DOI: 10.1520/JAI11609
ASTM International is a member of CrossRef.