Ultraviolet Exposure & UV Testing Services

Element offers comprehensive Ultraviolet exposure and UV testing services to assess material performance against damaging UV effects, including but not limited to:

• Testing with programmable temperature, humidity, and irradiance, including Xenon Arc, Solar Simulation, Florescent QUV, and outdoor exposure like Florida and Arizona
• UV exposure testing in compliance with international standards, including ASTM, ISO, MIL-STD, and SAE
• Solar spectrum calibration, covering ultraviolet, visible, and infrared band spectrums, enhances precision
• Advanced chambers such as Atlas Ci3000, Ci4000 and Ci5000, SUGA SX75 and Q-Lab QUV
• Various filters available such as Quartz, Borosilicate S, Soda Lime, CIRA, and Xenochrome, to replicate natural daylight as well as exposure through glass/ windows
• Pre and post-test assessments at various intervals such as Gloss measurements (60֯, 85֯, 20֯) LAB Colour measurements, and AATCC Greyscale readings
• Mechanical testing such as impact strength and elongation at break
• Paint finish testing such as adhesion and high-pressure wash
• Interpreting test results and technical data and helping to understand their implications for product quality and durability
• Light fastness evaluation
• Color retention testing
• Gloss level measurement
• Structural integrity assessment
• Surface degradation analysis
• Material strength testing
• Adhesion testing
• High-pressure wash resistance

UV tests deliver reliable testing outcomes critical for production planning, specifications, and well-informed decision-making. Our UV testing services offer a documented basis for comparison, providing detailed insights into your materials and products. Make strategic decisions with confidence, reduce potential product liability claims, and ensure your production processes adhere to the highest standards.

Our comprehensive testing capabilities cover a wide range of materials including polymers, textiles, paint finishes, and automotive components. We evaluate both individual materials and complete assemblies to assess UV resistance and weathering performance across your entire product range.

During UV testing, your sample is exposed to controlled UV radiation under specific conditions, often in a test chamber that simulates real-world use at an accelerated pace. Our lab technicians then analyze the material to identify any visual or structural changes, providing practical insights.

We provide customizable testing protocols utilizing various exposure conditions and environmental factors. Our methods include:

• Xenon Arc testing
• Fluorescent QUV testing
• Solar simulation
• Outdoor exposure testing
• Custom aging protocols

Advanced analysis capabilities
We complement UV testing with comprehensive analytical services:

• Pre and post-test assessments
• Gloss measurements (60°, 85°, 20°)
• LAB Color measurements
• AATCC Greyscale readings
• Impact strength evaluation
• Elongation testing

Our state-of-the-art facilities feature advanced testing chambers including:

• Atlas Ci3000, Ci4000 and Ci5000
• SUGA SX75
• Q-Lab QUV
• Multiple filter options (Quartz, Borosilicate S, Soda Lime, CIRA, Xenochrome)