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SURFACE VEHICLE J2412™ AUG2015

STANDARD Issued 2003-11

Revised 2015-08

Superseding J2412 MAY2004

(R) Accelerated Exposure of Automotive Interior Trim Components

Using a Controlled Irradiance Xenon-Arc Apparatus

RATIONALE

The Document is being revised to update the standard on current practices in use

1. SCOPE

1.1 This test method specifies the operating procedures for a controlled irradiance, xenon arc apparatus used for the
accelerated exposure of various automotive interior trim components.

1.2 Test duration as well as any exceptions to the specimen preparation and performance evaluation procedures
contained in this document, are covered in material specifications of the different automotive manufacturers.

1.3 Any deviation to this test method, such as filter combinations, is to be agreed upon by contractual parties.

2. REFERENCES

2.1 Applicable Documents

The following publications form a part of this specification to the extent specified herein. Unless otherwise indicated, the
latest issue of SAE publications shall apply.

2.1.1 SAE Publications

Available from SAE International, 400 Commonwealth Drive, Warrendale, PA 15096-0001, Tel: 877-606-7323 (inside USA
and Canada) or +1 724-776-4970 (outside USA), www.sae.org.

SAE J1767 Instrumental Color Difference Measurements for Colorfastness of Automotive Interior Trim Materials

SAE J2413 Protocol to Verify New Test Apparatus

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
SAE Technical Standards Board Rules provide that: “This report is published by SAE to advance the state of technical and engineering sciences. The use of this report is entirely
voluntary, and its applicability and suitability for any particular use, including any patent infringement arising therefrom, is the sole responsibility of the user.”
SAE reviews each technical report at least every five years at which time it may be revised, reaffirmed, stabilized, or cancelled. SAE invites your written comments and
suggestions.
Copyright © 2015 SAE International
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying,
recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of SAE.
TO PLACE A DOCUMENT ORDER: Tel: 877-606-7323 (inside USA and Canada) SAE values your input. To provide feedback
Tel: +1 724-776-4970 (outside USA) on this Technical Report, please visit
Fax: 724-776-0790 http://www.sae.org/technical/standards/J2412_201508
Email: [email protected]
SAE WEB ADDRESS: http://www.sae.org
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2.1.2 ASTM Publications

Available from ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959, Tel: 610-
832-9585, www.astm.org

ASTM D 859 Standard Test Method for Silica in Water

ASTM D 4517 Standard Test Method for Low-Level Total Silica in High-Purity Water by Flameless Atomic Absorption
Spectroscopy

ASTM G 113 Standard Terminology Relating to Natural and Artificial Weathering Tests of Non-Metallic Materials

ASTM G 130 Standard Test Method for Calibration of Narrow and Broad-Band Ultraviolet Radiometers Using
Spectroradiometer

ASTM G 147 Standard Practice for Conditioning and Handling of Nonmetallic Materials for Natural and Artificial
Weathering Tests

ASTM G 151 Standard Practice for Exposing Non-Metallic Materials in Accelerated Test Devices that use Laboratory
Light Sources

ASTM G 155 Standard Practice for Operating Xenon Arc Light Apparatus for Exposure of Non Metallic Materials

ASTM G 156 Standard Practice for Selecting and Characterizing Weathering Reference Materials Used to Monitor
Consistency of Conditions in an Exposure Test.

2.2 Related Publications

The following publications are provided for information purposes only and are not a required part of this SAE Technical
Report.

2.2.1 AATCC Publications

Available from American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC), P.O. Box 12215, Research Triangle Park,
NC 27709-2215, Tel: 919-549-8141, www.aatcc.org.

AATCC Evaluation Procedure 1

AATCC L-2 Blue Wool Lightfastness Standard

AATCC L-4 Blue Wool Lightfastness Standard

2.2.2 Testfabrics, Inc. Publications

Available from Testfabrics, Inc., 415 Delaware Ave., P.O. Box 26, West Pittston, PA 18643, Tel: 570-603-0432,
www.testfabrics.com.
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3. POLYSTYRENE PLASTIC WEATHERING REFERENCE MATERIAL TERMINOLOGY

3.1 Black Panel Thermometer, n

A temperature measuring device, the sensing unit of which is coated with black coating designed to absorb most of the
radiant energy encountered in fade/weathering testing.

NOTE: These devices provide an estimation of the maximum temperature a specimen might attain during exposures to
natural light.

3.2 Definitions applicable to this standard can be found in ASTM G 151.

4. SIGNIFICANCE AND USE

4.1 This test method is designed to simulate extreme environmental conditions encountered inside vehicle due to sunlight,
heat, and humidity for the purpose of predicting the performance of automotive interior trim materials.

5. APPARATUS

5.1 The equipment manufacturer is responsible for the approval of the equipment and for providing the proof of
compliance of the critical test parameters, including the different spectral power distributions (SPDs) that are required
by contractual parties. .

NOTE 1: In normal practice, different instruments (even equipment that is the same model number and from the same
manufacturer) may give different results. The result depends on specimen characteristics and instrument design.
Refer to ASTM G 155 Section 4.3 and 4.4 for more information.

NOTE 2: SAE J2413 is a non-mandatory tool that provides methodology to help compare the performance on new
equipment to instruments specified in a predecessor to this standard and compare conformance to parameters,
repeatability, reproducibility and uniformity data of test instruments.

5.2 The apparatus employed utilizes a xenon-arc lamp(s) as the source of radiation. The specimens shall be mounted
in a manner to expose the specimens to the uniform conditions of the test chamber. The instrument shall have the
means to automatically control irradiance, Black Panel temperature, chamber temperature and relative humidity. .

5.2.1 A more complete description of the apparatus can be found in ASTM G 151 and ASTM G 155.

5.3 The apparatus shall have an uninsulated black panel thermometer as described in ASTM G 151 unless otherwise
agreed upon by contractual parties.

5.4 Manufacturers of exposure devices shall assure that the irradiance at any location in the area used for specimen
exposures is at least 70% of the maximum irradiance measured in this area.

5.4.1 If irradiance at any position in the area used for specimen exposure is at 90% of the maximum irradiance. It is not
necessary to use periodic repositioning of the specimens during exposure to ensure uniform radiant exposure.
While periodic repositioning of the specimens may not be necessary. It is nevertheless good practice in order to be
sure that the variability in exposure period is kept to the minimum.

5.4.2 If irradiance at any positioning the area used for specimen exposure is between 70 and 90 % of the maximum
irradiance, specimens shall be periodically repositioned to reduce variability in radiant exposure.
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6. APPARATUS SET-UP

6.1 To minimize variability maintain and calibrate the apparatus to manufacturer's specifications.

NOTE: Appendix C and D describe the optional use of weathering reference materials (blue wool and polystyrene)that
may help the user evaluate if the xenon-arc apparatus is operating properly in terms of repeatability and
reproducibility..

6.1.1 The water for humidification or other purposes shall leave no objectionable deposits or stains on the exposed
specimens. The water shall have less than 1 ppm solids and less than 0.2ppm silica.

NOTE: Silica levels may be determined using ASTM procedures D 859 or D 4517or other suitable methods. A combination
of deionization and reverse osmosis treatment can effectively produce water with the desired purity.

6.1.2 If applicable, to prevent accidental spraying of the test samples, turn off all water spray assemblies.

6.1.3 Fit the xenon-arc burner with an Extended UV Filter to provide a spectral power distribution (SPD) indicated in
Appendix A, Table A1 and Figure A1.

6.1.4 Operate the equipment to alternating cycles as described in Table 1.

Table 1 - Target values at control panel sensor

Dark Light
Controls Cycle Cycle
________________________________________________________________________________________

Target Tolerance Target Tolerance

Automatic Irradiance None Contractual Agreement ± 0.02 Wm2 nm-1
(See Note 1)
Black Panel Temperature 38 oC ± 2.5 oC 89 oC ± 2.5 oC
Dry Bulb Temperature 38 oC ± 3 oC 62 oC ± 2 oC
Relative Humidity 95% ± 10% 50% ± 10%
Radiant Exposure Not applicable Contractual Agreement
Cycle Duration 1 hour ± 6 minutes 3.8 hours ± 6 minutes
(See Note 2) (See Note 2)

Note 1: 0 .55 Wm-2 nm-1 at 340 nm is the historic preferred irradiance for this test.. Equipment monitoring a broad band
rather than the narrow band will have different target values than those listed in Table 1. Other values, higher or lower,
agreed upon by contractual parties can be used but they invalidate the values listed for the blue wools in Appendix B and
polystyrene reference material shown in Appendix C.

Note 2: Other cycle times may be used upon contractual agreement, if, for example, an irradiance different than the
specified default value is specified.

Note 3 Operate the apparatus to the maintain the indicated range at the control panel. If the actual operating conditions
at the company panel do not agree with the machine settings after the equipment has stabilized discontinue the test
and correct the cause of the disagreement before resuming the test.

7. TEST PROCEDURE

7.1 Prepare the specimens to be exposed to fit the specimen holder being used. Refer to ASTM G 147 for conditioning
and handling of specimens.

7.2 Subject to 7.3 specimen sizes shall conform to the size of the approved specimen holder(s) unless agreed upon
otherwise by contractual parties (e.g., to accommodate mounting of odd sized specimens). Specimens that exceed
these sizes may not give proper exposure results. It is important to follow the manufacturer guidelines to obtain
uniform light exposure on the specimens as the distance from the light source is a major factor on the amount of
irradiance received and the surface temperature of the specimen and hence the exposure results obtained from the
test.
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7.3 Specimens that do not completely fill the exposure area of the specimen holder shall be backed with white cardboard.
Interiors textiles (body cloth, carpet, vinyl coated fabrics, etc.) shall always be backed with white cardboard 1. In all
cases the white cardboard shall be the size of the specimen holder to eliminate any gaps. .

7.4 Fill all unused slots with an inert non-reflective material (e.g., white cardboard panels1) to maintain desired air flow.
Cardboard blanks should be changed when noticeable physical distortion occurs.

7.5 Program the weathering device for the specified radiant exposure (kJ⋅m-2⋅nm-1 @ 340 nm for example), and ensure
that the test begins with the light cycle. See applicable material specification. This is to accommodate scheduling of
optional weathering reference materials.

7.6 For some instruments and/or materials, periodic repositioning of specimens during the exposure period may be
needed to ensure that each receives an equal amount of radiant exposure. Reposition specimens as specified in
5.41.

NOTE: Care should be taken to avoid mixing potentially incompatible specimens in the same machine load, (e.g.., textiles
should not be exposed together with foam backed textiles, foams, or plastics). This is due to out gassing cross-
contamination and other issues that may affect other specimens.

NOTE: Once exposure has been initiated, equipment operation should not be interrupted more than once daily. Additional
interruptions, e.g., opening the chamber door during the course of daily operation, may cause variation in test
results.

8. EVALUATING AND REPORTING

8.1 The degree of fade should be evaluated and reported as specified between the contractual parties. One or more of
the following methods may be specified:

8.1.1 Instrumental Measurement

8.1.1.1 Color difference values in CIELAB units are obtained by instrumentally measuring the specimen before and after
a specified amount of radiant exposure. The procedure used for color measurement of the specimens shall
conform to that specified in Appendix C for non-rigid materials or Appendix D for rigid materials

8.1.2 Visual Assessment

8.1.3 Assign colorfastness ratings using the AATCC Gray Scale for Color Change in accordance with AATCC Evaluation
Procedure 1.

8.1.4 Using the viewing conditions specified in AATCC Evaluation Procedure 1, quantify the color change using the
following terminology:

a. NONE - No change in hue, lightness or saturation.

b. SLIGHT - A change in lightness and/or saturation which can be determined only upon close examination but no change
in hue.

c. NOTICEABLE - A change in lightness and/or saturation which can be easily seen and/or a change in hue.

d. SEVERE - An extreme change in lightness, saturation and/or hue.

1 Franklin, Grain long-felt side up 110/500 white index, Stock Number 06506 or 9016 White Bristol Card Stock have been found suitable for this
purpose. Franklin white index is usually available from local office supply or art supply stores. Weight of card stock should be sufficient to prevent
warping.
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9. EXPOSURE REPORT

9.1 The exposure report is as agreed to by contractual parties.

9.2 The following items shall be reported at the completion of the test:

9.2.1 Laboratory Name

9.2.2 Type and serial number of exposure equipment

9.2.3 Start and stop dates for the exposure

9.2.4 Set up conditions including cycle times, filters used, irradiance, temperature, and humidity

9.2.5 A list of the identification numbers for the specimens

9.2.6 Total radiant exposure in kJm-2 nm-1 or MJm-2 and the wavelength range used

9.2.7 A statement that the exposure was performed in accordance with this test method

9.2.8 A list of any deviations from this test method

9.2.9 A record of any occasions when the equipment did not meet the required operating conditions

9.2.10 A note of any interruptions to the exposure greater than 24 hours

10. NOTES

10.1 Marginal Indicia

A change bar (I) located in the left margin is for the convenience of the user in locating areas where technical revisions, not
editorial changes, have been made to the previous issue of this document. An (R) symbol to the left of the document title
indicates a complete revision of the document, including technical revisions. Change bars and (R) are not used in original
publications, nor in documents that contain editorial changes only.

PREPARED BY THE SAE TEXTILE AND FLEXIBLE PLASTICS COMMITTEE

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APPENDIX A - REPRESENTATIVE SPECTRAL POWER DISTRIBUTION (SPD) FOR EXTENDED UV FILTER

(MANDATORY)

A.1 SCOPE

A.1.1 This appendix consists of reference tables and a figure.

Table A1 (Part 1) - Irradiance in W/m2 based on 81 SPD’s for Xenon-Arcs

with extended UV filters normalized to exactly 0.55 W.m-2 at 340 nm

standard
bandpass average deviation min max
250-260 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.02
261-270 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.03
271-280 0.04 0.02 0.01 0.10
281-290 0.22 0.08 0.09 0.42
291-300 0.73 0.16 0.36 1.16
301-310 1.60 0.20 1.04 2.19
311-320 2.72 0.19 2.13 3.26
321-330 3.91 0.14 3.48 4.29
331-340 5.06 0.04 4.95 5.18
341-350 6.10 0.10 5.91 6.33
351-360 7.06 0.22 6.48 7.67
361-370 7.97 0.33 7.19 8.83
371-380 8.65 0.48 7.55 9.77
381-390 9.17 0.59 7.99 10.57
391-400 10.67 0.70 9.17 13.29
300-400 63.10 1.97 58.30 68.17

NOTES:
1. For Extended UV spectrum, lamp is operated at 0.55 W.m-2 @ 340 nm. Wide band, 300 nm - 400 nm,
equivalence is approximately 60.0 W.m-2.
2. The SPD data contained in Table A1 was developed using the "rectangular" integration technique. The data is
based on 81 spectra for the 250 nm - 400 nm bandpass and the same 37 spectra used for the 400 nm - 800 nm
region. The formula for the rectangular method is shown below.

Formula used for calculating irradiance using rectangular integration in indicated bandpass when spectra at
2 nm increments are used
n= y
I x , y = 2 × ∑ in
n= x

Where:

Ix,y = total irradiance in bandpass with lower wavelength x and upper wavelength y
x = lower wavelength limit
y = upper wavelength limit
in = irradiance at wavelength n within the indicated bandpass between x and y
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Other integration techniques can be used to evaluate SPD data but may give different results.

When comparing spectral power distribution data to Table A1, the same integration technique, rectangular, should be
applied.

Table A1 (Part 2) - SPD table for 400 nm - 800 nm at 50 nm

bandpasses based on 37 SPDs

bandpass average std dev min max

400-450 57.47 5.13 47.20 67.74
451-500 73.71 6.22 61.28 86.15
501-550 66.26 7.40 51.46 81.06
551-600 67.61 7.43 52.75 82.48
601-650 64.85 7.69 49.46 80.24
651-700 60.52 6.14 48.25 72.80
701-750 57.06 6.17 44.72 69.40
751-800 48.44 7.39 33.66 63.22

Figure A1 - Extended UV filter vs. sunlight spectral power distribution (SPD)

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APPENDIX B - MAINTENANCE AND CALIBRATION NON MANDATORY

B.1 MAINTENANCE

B.1.1 For best test results, a weathering device must be cleaned regularly. Adhere strictly to the manufacturer’s
recommendations for cleaning and maintaining the testing device. In general, the frequency of cleaning
necessary, will depend on the quality of water used in the device as well as the quality of air used in the device
and is present in the laboratory.

B.1.2 For recommended cleaning practice, please consult the appropriate instruction manual. Special attention must
be given to the care of the following:

Test Chamber
Conditioning Chamber (if applicable)
Xenon Filters
Optical Components
Black Sensor (BPT)
Xenon lamp(s)

B.2 REPLACEMENT SCHEDULE

B.2.1 Lamp Assembly and Related Parts

In general, the xenon lamp and/or its filters should be replaced when the specified irradiance can no longer be achieved or
when there is visual evidence of deterioration, such as discoloration of filter assembly, increasing opacity of the burner.
Otherwise, adhere strictly to the manufacturer’s recommendations for the replacement of all consumable items, especially
the following:

Xenon Lamp
Xenon lamp filters
Optical components

B.2.2 Replace the Black Panel sensor when local surface luster can no longer be maintained, or when any bare metal
can be seen.

B.2.3 Where applicable, inspect wet bulb wick weekly and replace when discoloration or mineral deposits are
observed. In all cases, observe manufacturer's instructions for the maintenance and proper operation of the
devices' humidification system.

B.3 CALIBRATION CHECKS

B.3.1 Check controls or program daily (except weekend and holidays) to insure compliance to required test
parameters specified in Table 1 and other critical test parameters. Also, on a daily (except weekend and
holidays) basis, ensure the parameters specified in Table 1 and other critical test parameters are accurately
recorded.

B.3.2 Calibrate the apparatus per the manufacturer’s recommendation following the procedures detailed in the
operating manual provided by the manufacturer. To avoid unnecessary instrument downtime over weekends
and if using L-4 Blue Wool as the reference material. Thursday is the suggested calibration day.

B.3.3 To facilitate reporting the performance of optional weathering reference materials, the Xenon Weathering
Reference Material control chart may be used to document change in properties during exposure (Figure 1).
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Figure 1 - Xenon arc reference material control chart

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APPENDIX C - PROCEDURE FOR DETERMINING COLORFASTNESS TO LIGHT

(AATCC BLUE WOOL LIGHTFASTNESS STANDARDS) NON MANDATORY

C.1 SCOPE

C.1.1 This Appendix describes a procedure for using AATCC Blue Wool Lightfastness Weathering Reference
Materials as reference fabrics for the purpose of determining whether the xenon-arc apparatus is operating
properly. .This section is optional.

C.1.2 Color difference values in CIELAB units are obtained by instrumentally measuring the reference fabrics before
and after a specified amount of radiant exposure.

C.1.3 AATCC L-2 Blue Wool Lightfastness Weathering Reference Materials shall be exposed daily and/or an AATCC
L-4 Blue Wool Lightfastness Weathering Reference Material shall be used to monitor a continuous three day
operating cycle. AATCC L-4 Blue Wool may be used exclusively if agreed upon between contractual parties.

C.2 PROCEDURE

C.2.1 Instruments used to determine color difference for this procedure require capability for providing CIELAB color
values using illuminant D-65, 10 degree observer data. If an instrument with diffuse geometry is used, the
specular component of reflectance shall be included in the measurement. (Refer to SAE J1767, for details).

C.2.2 Calibrate the instrument to be used for the color measurements to the manufacturer's recommendations.

C.2.3 Back the reference fabric to be measured with white cardboard. Condition the backed reference fabric in a
standard atmosphere (relative humidity 50 RH ±10% and temperature 22 ± 3°C) for a minimum of 2 h. Insert
one layer of unexposed material of the same lightfastness standard between the reference fabric and cardboard
backing prior to measurement.

NOTE: The reference fabrics are light sensitive. Therefore, the piece used as the backing layer during measurement will
need to be replaced when noticeable color change has occurred (after approximately 50 uses).

C.2.4 Place the reference fabric against the sample port of the instrument in such a way that a smooth surface of the
face of the fabric is presented for measurement.

C.2.5 After taking an initial reading in CIELAB units, rotate the reference fabric 90 degrees and take a second
reading. Average the readings and store as the standard measurement for the identified piece of reference
fabric. REMOVE THE BACKING FABRIC AND PLACE IN A LIGHT TIGHT CONTAINER FOR LATER USE.

NOTE: The measurement obtained in C.2.5 cannot be used for different pieces of reference fabric. Each individual piece
must be conditioned and measured prior to exposure.

C.2.6 Place the cardboard backed reference fabric (single layer) in a specimen holder and secure on the specimen
rack adjacent to the Black Panel thermometer.

C.2.7 Always start the exposure apparatus at the end of the dark cycle. Expose the L-2 reference fabric and/or the L-
4 reference fabric as agreed upon by contractual parties.

C.2.8 After the specified radiant exposure, remove the reference fabric and the white cardboard backing and allow
them to condition at (relative humidity 50 RH ± 10% and temperature 22 ± 3°C) for a minimum of 1 h.

C.2.9 Repeat the color measurements steps specified in C.2.2 through C.2.5 on the exposed reference fabric(s) and
using the previously stored pre-exposed measurement, determine the Delta L*, a*, b* and E* values.

C.2.10 Compare the Delta E* value determined to that specified in the AATCC chart supplied.

C.2.10.1 The supplier (AATCC) is to provide the determined values with each purchase of reference fabric as furnished
to them by IFAI Transportation Division.
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NOTE: The predetermined value to establish whether the instrument is operating correctly can either be provided by the
supplier of the reference standard, or similarly, using predetermined limits from an alternate weathering reference
material. ASTM G156 describes a method for selecting and establishing tolerances for alternate weathering
reference materials

C.2.11 If the weathering reference material is out of specification, expose another blue wool specimen for the shortest
time interval (for example: 37.6 kJ⋅ m-2 ⋅ nm-1 for one day, 112.8 kJ⋅ m-2 ⋅ nm-1 for a weekend, or 150.4 kJ⋅ m-
2 ⋅ nm -1 for a three day weekend). If the blue wool weathering reference material continues to be out of
specification, testing should be discontinued to determine if there is a problem with the operation of the instrument.
The test can be continued if no problem is found or if a problem is identified, after correction or repair.

NOTE: The intent of the AATCC Blue Wool Lightfastness Weathering Reference Materials is to monitor the performance
of the test. It is for Statistical Process Control (SPC) purposes. A point outside of the range does not necessarily
invalidate the test because the long-term stability of the Blue Wool weathering reference material may be
compromised if not properly stored.
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APPENDIX D - POLYSTYRENE LIGHTFASTNESS STANDARDS NON MANDATORY

D.1 SCOPE

D.1.1 This Appendix describes a procedure for using a Polystyrene plaque as a weathering reference material for
assisting in determining whether the xenon-arc apparatus is operating properly. This section is optional.

NOTE: The Delta B values provided with the standard are based on the SAE J2412test method. They do not apply to tests
that use higher or lower irradiance levels or that use different filter combinations other than the extended UV filters.
Weathering instruments that monitor UV in a broadband rather than a narrowband should apply the equivalent
broadband radiant dosages in order to use the target values supplied. Note that the broadband (300 nm – 400 nm)
equivalent for 0.55 Wm-2 nm-1 at 340 nm is approximately 60 Wm-2).

D.1.2 Color difference values in CIELAB units are obtained by instrumentally measuring the reference plastic before
and after a specified amount of radiant exposure.

D.1.3 The polystyrene weathering reference material may be exposed to a radiant dosage (kJ⋅m-2⋅nm-1 for example),
which is equivalent to a period of 2 to 7 days.

D.2 PROCEDURE

D.2.1 Instruments used to determine color difference for this procedure require a capability for operation which
includes the specular component and provides CIELAB color values using illuminant D-65, 10 degree observer
data. No substitutions are permitted. Measurements are to be made in the reflectance mode.

D.2.2 Calibrate the instrument to be used for the color measurements in accordance with the manufacturer's
recommendations.

D.2.3 Reflectance Mode

D.2.3.1 Place a piece of unexposed reference plastic, backed with a white calibration tile against the sample port of
the instrument.

NOTE: Take precautions to avoid any interference from ambient light.

D.2.3.2 Take an initial reading and store it as the standard measurement for the identified piece of reference plastic.

NOTE: In order to preserve the surface of the White Calibration Tile, it is recommended that a second calibration tile be
purchased for these measurements.

D.2.3.3 Place the pre-measured piece of reference plastic in a specimen holder and secure on the specimen rack
adjacent to the black panel thermometer.

D.2.4 Run the polystyrene weathering reference material as agreed upon by contractual parties for the specified
amount of kilojoules

D.2.4.1 Always start the exposure apparatus at the end of the dark cycle and expose the reference plastic to a radiant
exposure (kJ⋅m-2⋅nm-1 @ 340 nm for example) for an equivalent period of two to seven days.

D.2.5 After the radiant exposure, remove the reference plastic from the apparatus.

D.2.6 Repeat the color measurement steps specified in D.2.3 on the exposed reference plastic and using the
previously stored pre-exposure measurement, determine the Delta b* values.

NOTE: In order to preserve the surface of the White Calibration Tile, it is recommended that a second calibration tile be
purchased for these measurements.

D.2.7 Compare the Delta b* reading to the chart for the cycle used.
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D.2.7.1 The supplier (Testfabrics) of the reference plastic is to provide the charts as supplied by SAE Weathering
committee with each purchase of the polystyrene weathering reference material.

NOTE: The predetermined value to establish whether the instrument is operating correctly can either be provided by the
supplier of the reference standard, or similarly, using predetermined limits from an alternate weathering reference
material. ASTM G156 describes a method for selecting and establishing tolerances for alternate weathering
reference materials.

D.2.8 If the weathering reference material is out of specification expose another polystyrene plaque for the shortest
time interval (for example: 37.6 kJ⋅ m-2 ⋅ nm-1 for one day, 112.8 kJ⋅ m-2 ⋅ nm-1 for a weekend, or 150.4 kJ⋅ m-
2 ⋅ nm -1 for a three day weekend). If the polystyrene weathering reference material continues to be out of

specification, testing should be discontinued to determine if there is a problem with the operation of the instrument.
The test can be continued if no problem is found or if a problem is identified, after correction or repair.

NOTE: The intent of the Polystyrene is to monitor the performance of the test. It is for Statistical Process Control (SPC)
purposes. A point outside of the range does not necessarily invalidate the test .because the long term stability of
the Polystyrene weathering reference material during storage has not been determined.