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ASTM D4459 test now offered at Micom Laboratories

Micom Laboratories is delighted to announce that it now offers the ASTM D4459 test as part of its UV testing services. This method details an accelerated weathering test which assesses the stability of plastics that are intended for indoor applications. Indeed, this standard relies on a periodical evaluation of the color difference between the file and exposed samples and on the use of a window glass filtered Xenon arc lamp in order appraise the behavior of the specimen in regard to the solar radiation that is going through a window. Hence, ASTM D4459 is centered on the ASTM G155 and on the ASTM D2244 standards.

ASTM D4459 test

The purpose of the ASTM D4459 standard is to determine the magnitude and the direction of the color difference between the file and exposed samples as a function of the time of exposure or of the radiant exposure. By assessing this characteristic, it is possible to foresee the performance of the plastic that is intended for an interior application through the use of an accelerating factor. The latter is material dependent and is obtained through a statistical study of the data gathered from past exposures. In order to achieve this purpose, this test relies on an accelerated weathering test which simulates an indoor exposure through a window, with a Xenon arc lamp as an illuminating source, and on a periodical assessment of the properties of the sample. As outlined in our UV testing eBook, an exposure to a Xenon arc light is mainly employed to evaluate the aesthetics of the specimen, because its light spectrum faithfully represents the whole solar spectrum. However, this test protocol can also be used to appraised other properties when it is coupled with the appropriate method.

Micom offers polymer testing services for a wide selection of material and products. For more information about the ASTM D4459, we invite you to contact our material testing laboratory today. It will be our pleasure to answer your questions about either of those tests.

Micom Laboratories is a third party industrial material testing laboratory accredited by the Standards Council of Canada, CGSB, ISTA and many other organizations.


Disclaimer

All of the information and opinions contained in this blog are made with the information, and the understanding that we have reviewed at the time of publishing. However, despite our efforts, we do not offer any guarantee of their accuracy, thoroughness of our investigation or validity. The author of this blog is not liable for any inaccuracies or any losses or damages that may result from the use of the information or data contained herein. This blog has not been reviewed or verified for its accuracy by any peer group associates prior to publication.

Michel Comtois

Michel Comtois is an accomplished founder and CEO of Micom Laboratories Inc., an ISO/IEC 17025 (2017) A2LA-accredited independent laboratory specializing in product and material testing services. Before establishing Micom Laboratories in 1999, Michel, who also holds a Master’s degree in Physical Chemistry, gained extensive experience over a 14-year tenure managing departments spanning physical chemistry, physics, mechanical and material testing in research and contract laboratories. This exposure granted him a profound understanding of the intricacies of development and material testing processes.

In addition to his practical experience, Michel has played influential roles on various voluntary technical committees. He notably, served as the chairperson for CAN/CGSB 44.227 and the Head of the Canadian Delegation for ISO TC 136. He also contributed to the following technical committees: CAN/CGSB 44.229, CAN/CGSB 44.232, ANSI/BIFMA X5.1, ANSI/BIFMA X5.5, ANSI/BIFMA X5.6, ANSI/BIFMA X 5.9 ANSI/BIFMA X5.11, ISTA Certification Council.

Leveraging his unique expertise, he has led Micom Laboratories to become a renowned name in its niche, now operating out of a 16,000-square-foot test facility in Montreal, Canada, and serving a diverse customer base with an array of material and product testing services. Follow Michel on LinkedIn

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