Xenon-Arc Accelerated Exposure (XAAE)

  

Vinod Kumar
Published : June 5, 2023

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Xenon-Arc Accelerated Exposure (XAAE)

Xenon-Arc Accelerated Exposure (XAAE) is a commonly used method for testing the durability and performance of materials and products exposed to outdoor weathering conditions. XAAE is an accelerated weathering test that simulates the harsh environmental conditions that materials and products are exposed to when they are used outdoors. XAAE testing is essential in industries where materials and products are exposed to outdoor weathering conditions, such as automotive, aerospace, building construction, and outdoor furniture. 

The material or product is subjected to a predetermined level of light and moisture for a predetermined amount of time during XAAE testing, which typically lasts between a few hundred and several thousand hours. The intensity of the UV radiation, temperature, and humidity can be adjusted to simulate various weather conditions, including intense sunlight, high humidity, and extreme temperatures. The material or product is then evaluated for changes in its physical, mechanical, and chemical properties, such as colour fading, cracking, peeling, embrittlement, or loss of strength. The test results are compared to the performance of the same material or product exposed to natural outdoor weathering conditions.

Importance of XAAE testing

1. Evaluate the durability and performance of new materials and products before they are released in the market, reducing the risk of product failure and recalls.
2. Improve the formulation of existing materials and products to enhance their resistance to weathering and prolong their service life.
3. Compare the performance of different materials and products and select the most suitable ones for specific applications and environments.
4. Comply with industry standards and regulations that require weathering testing for certain products, such as paints, coatings, and plastics.

Video 01: LIB Xenon Arc Accelerated Weathering Test

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