Summary

ASTM D5208 is a standardized practice used to evaluate the photodegradability of plastics and similar nonmetallic materials. It simulates the effects of sunlight, heat, and moisture by exposing samples to fluorescent UV light under controlled laboratory conditions. This analysis is primarily aimed at assessing how rapidly materials lose their chemical, physical, or mechanical properties after use when exposed to typical outdoor environments.

ASTM D5208 Testing Method

In this test, samples are exposed to fluorescent UV lamps in a weathering chamber. The samples are periodically extracted at designated intervals and select properties are measured against a control sample to determine the material’s susceptibility to photodegradation. The exposure conditions (UV intensity, temperature, duration, and humidity/cooling cycles) must be defined and controlled closely throughout the test intervals.

It’s best practice to assess the sample’s properties directly after each testing interval as their properties can continue changing post-exposure. This method is suitable for photodegradable plastics and can also be used for insulating materials (up to 20mm thick).

Interested in ASTM D5208 Testing? Contact Our Team Today

When you are looking to quickly, efficiently, and accurately test your products for photodegradability, Aropha is here to help. We want to make sure your products are properly tested in a tight turnaround time so you can get your products to market as soon as possible. We’ve optimized our testing workflows to streamline your development, allowing you to get your products to market faster than using internal labs or other third-party testing laboratories.

In addition to ASTM D5208, we offer a wide range of biodegradability and ecotoxicity testing for countless products and industries. So, even if you need additional testing, our team has you covered.

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