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Designation: G154 − 16

Standard Practice for

Operating Fluorescent Ultraviolet (UV) Lamp Apparatus for
Exposure of Nonmetallic Materials1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation G154; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

1. Scope* 1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the
1.1 This practice is limited to the basic principles for safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
operating a fluorescent UV lamp and water apparatus; on its responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
own, it does not deliver a specific result. priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.2 It is intended to be used in conjunction with a practice or 1.7 This standard is technically similar to ISO 4892-3 and
method that defines specific exposure conditions for an appli- ISO 16474-3.
cation along with a means to evaluate changes in material
properties. This practice is intended to reproduce the weather- 2. Referenced Documents
ing effects that occur when materials are exposed to sunlight 2.1 ASTM Standards:2
(either direct or through window glass) and moisture as rain or D5870 Practice for Calculating Property Retention Index of
dew in actual usage. This practice is limited to the procedures Plastics
for obtaining, measuring, and controlling conditions of expo- D6631 Guide for Committee D01 for Conducting an Inter-
sure. laboratory Study for the Purpose of Determining the
NOTE 1—Practice G151 describes general procedures to be used when Precision of a Test Method
exposing nonmetallic materials in accelerated test devices that use G113 Terminology Relating to Natural and Artificial Weath-
laboratory light sources. ering Tests of Nonmetallic Materials
NOTE 2—A number of exposure procedures are listed in an appendix; G151 Practice for Exposing Nonmetallic Materials in Accel-
however, this practice does not specify the exposure conditions best suited
for the material to be tested. erated Test Devices that Use Laboratory Light Sources
G177 Tables for Reference Solar Ultraviolet Spectral Distri-
1.3 Test specimens are exposed to fluorescent UV light butions: Hemispherical on 37° Tilted Surface
under controlled environmental conditions. Different types of
2.2 ISO Standards:3
fluorescent UV lamp sources are described.
ISO 4582 Plastics—Determination of the Changes of Colour
NOTE 3—In this standard, the terms UV light and UV radiation are used and Variations in Properties After Exposure to Daylight
interchangeably. Under Glass, Natural Weathering or Artificial Light
1.4 Specimen preparation and evaluation of the results are ISO 4892-1 Plastics—Methods of Exposure to Laboratory
covered in ASTM methods or specifications for specific Light Sources—Part 1, Guidance
materials. General guidance is given in Practice G151 and ISO 4892-3 Plastics—Methods of Exposure to Laboratory
ISO 4892-1. Light Sources—Part 3, Fluorescent UV lamps
ISO 16474-3 Paints and Varnishes—Methods of Exposure to
NOTE 4—General information about methods for determining the
change in properties after exposure and reporting these results is described
Laboratory Light Sources—Part 3: Fluorescent UV Lamps
in ISO 4582 and Practice D5870.
3. Terminology
1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
3.1 Definitions—The definitions given in Terminology G113
standard. No other units of measurement are included in this
are applicable to this practice.
standard.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard—As used

1 2
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee G03 on Weathering For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, [Link], or
and Durability and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee G03.03 on contact ASTM Customer Service at service@[Link]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Simulated and Controlled Exposure Tests. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Current edition approved March 1, 2016. Published September 2016. Originally the ASTM website.
3
approved in 1997. Last previous edition approved in 2012 as G154 – 12a. DOI: Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St.,
10.1520/G0154-16. 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, [Link]

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard

Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States

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 G154 − 16
in this practice, the term sunlight is identical to the terms NOTE 5—See Guide D6631 for guidance.
daylight and solar irradiance, global as they are defined in
Terminology G113. 6. Apparatus
3.2.1 Fluorescent Ultraviolet (UV) lamp Apparatus—an 6.1 Laboratory Light Source—The light source shall be one
apparatus specifically designed for performing artificial accel- or more fluorescent UV lamps. A variety of fluorescent UV
erated weathering and irradiation tests using fluorescent UV lamps can be used for this procedure. Differences in lamp
lamps as the light source and including a means to expose the intensity or spectrum may cause significant differences in test
test specimens to moisture and controlled temperature. results.
6.1.1 Do not mix different types of lamps. Mixing different
4. Summary of Practice types of lamps in a fluorescent UV apparatus may produce
4.1 Specimens are exposed to repetitive cycles of light and major inconsistencies in the light falling on the samples, unless
moisture under controlled environmental conditions. the apparatus has been specifically designed to ensure a
uniform spectral distribution.
4.1.1 Moisture is usually produced by condensation of
[Link] A detailed description of the type(s) of lamp(s) used
water vapor onto the test specimen or by spraying the speci-
shall be stated in the test report. The particular testing
mens with demineralized/deionized water.
application determines which lamp is used. See Appendix X1
4.2 The exposure condition may be varied by selection of: for lamp application guidelines.
4.2.1 The fluorescent lamp, 6.1.2 The apparatus should include an irradiance control
4.2.2 The lamp’s irradiance level, system to monitor and control the irradiance. In apparatuses
4.2.3 The type of moisture exposure, without irradiance control, the actual irradiance levels at the
4.2.4 The timing of the light, dark, and moisture periods, test specimen surface may vary due to the type of lamps,
and manufacturer of the lamps, age of the lamps, accumulation of
4.2.5 The temperature during each exposure condition. dirt or other residue on the lamps, distance to the lamp array,
air temperature within the chamber and ambient laboratory
5. Significance and Use temperature.
5.1 The use of this apparatus is intended to induce property NOTE 6—In general, in apparatuses without irradiance control, lamp
changes consistent with the end use conditions, including the output will decrease with increasing chamber or laboratory temperature,
effects of the UV portion of sunlight, moisture, and heat. or both.
Typically, these exposures would include moisture in the form 6.1.3 Fluorescent lamps age with extended use. Follow the
of condensing humidity. Exposures are not intended to simu- apparatus manufacturer’s instructions on the procedure neces-
late the deterioration caused by localized weather phenomena, sary to maintain desired irradiance (1, 2).4
such as atmospheric pollution, biological attack, and saltwater 6.1.4 Standard Fluorescent UV Lamps—Fluorescent UV
exposure. Alternatively, the exposure may simulate the effects lamps are available with a choice of spectral power distribu-
of sunlight through window glass. (Warning—Refer to Prac- tions that vary significantly. The more common are identified
tice G151 for full cautionary guidance applicable to all as UVA-340, UVA-351, and UVB-313. These numbers repre-
laboratory weathering devices.) sent the characteristic nominal wavelength (in nm) of peak
5.2 This practice provides general procedures for operating emission for each of these lamp types. The actual peak
fluorescent UV lamp weathering devices that allow for a wide emissions are at 343 nm, 350 nm, and 313 nm, respectively.
range of exposure conditions. Therefore, no reference shall be [Link] Spectral Power Distribution of UVA-340 Lamps for
made to results from the use of this practice unless accompa- Daylight UV—The spectral power distribution of UVA-340
nied by a report detailing the specific operating conditions in fluorescent lamps shall comply with the requirements specified
conformance with Section 10. in Table 1.
5.2.1 It is recommended that a similar material of known NOTE 7—The main application for UVA-340 lamps is for simulation of
performance (a control) be exposed simultaneously with the the short and middle UV wavelength region of daylight.
test specimen to provide a standard for comparative purposes. [Link] Spectral Power Distribution of UVA-351 Lamps for
Generally, two controls are recommended: one known to have Daylight UV Behind Window Glass—The spectral power dis-
poor durability and one known to have good durability. It is tribution of UVA-351 lamp for Daylight UV behind Window
recommended that at least three replicates of each material Glass shall comply with the requirements specified in Table 2.
evaluated be exposed in each test to allow for statistical
NOTE 8—The main application for UVA-351 lamps is for simulation of
evaluation of results. the short and middle UV wavelength region of daylight that has been
5.2.2 Comparison of results obtained from specimens ex- filtered through window glass (3).
posed in the same model of apparatus should not be made [Link] Spectral Power Distribution of UVB-313 Lamps—
unless reproducibility has been established among devices for The spectral power distribution of UVB-313 fluorescent lamps
the material to be tested. shall comply with the requirements specified in Table 3.
5.2.3 Comparison of results obtained from specimens ex-
posed in different models of apparatus should not be made
unless correlation has been established among devices for the 4
The boldface numbers in parentheses refer to a list of references at the end of
material to be tested. this standard.

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 G154 − 16
TABLE 1 Relative Ultraviolet Spectral Power Distribution TABLE 2 Relative Spectral Power Distribution Specification for
Specification for Fluorescent UVA-340 Lamps for Daylight UVA,B Fluorescent UVA-351 Lamps for Daylight UV Behind Window
Spectral GlassA,B
Bandpass Minimum Benchmark Solar Maximum Spectral
Wavelength λ in PercentC Radiation PercentD,E PercentC Window Glass
Bandpass Minimum Maximum
nm Filtered
Wavelength λ in PercentC PercentC
Daylight PercentD,E
λ < 290 0.01 nm
290 # λ # 320 5.9 5.8 9.3 λ < 300 0.0 0.2
320 < λ # 360 60.9 40.0 65.5 300 # λ # 320 1.1 # 0.5 3.3
360 < λ # 400 26.5 54.2 32.8 320 < λ # 360 60.5 34.2 66.8
A
Data in Table 1 are the irradiance in the given bandpass expressed as a 360 < λ # 400 30.0 65.3 38.0
percentage of the total irradiance from 290 to 400 nm. The manufacturer is A
Data in Table 2 are the irradiance in the given bandpass expressed as a
responsible for determining conformance to Table 1. Annex A1 states how to percentage of the total irradiance from 300 to 400 nm. The manufacturer is
determine relative spectral irradiance. responsible for determining conformance to Table 1. Annex A1 states how to
B
The data in Table 1 are based on the rectangular integration of 65 spectral power determine relative spectral irradiance.
distributions for fluorescent UV devices operating with UVA 340 lamps of various B
The data in Table 2 are based on the rectangular integration of 21 spectral power
lots and ages. The spectral power distribution data is for lamps within the aging distributions for fluorescent UV devices operating with UVA 351 lamps of various
recommendations of the device manufacturer. The minimum and maximum data lots and ages. The spectral power distribution data is for lamps within the aging
are at least the three sigma limits from the mean for all measurements. recommendations of the device manufacturer. The minimum and maximum data
C
The minimum and maximum columns will not necessarily sum to 100 % because are at least the three sigma limits from the mean for all measurements.
they represent the minimum and maximum for the data used. For any individual C
The minimum and maximum columns will not necessarily sum to 100 % because
spectral power distribution, the calculated percentage for the bandpasses in Table they represent the minimum and maximum for the data used. For any individual
1 will sum to 100 %. For any individual fluorescent UVA-340 lamp, the calculated spectral power distribution, the calculated percentage for the bandpasses in Table
percentage in each bandpass must fall within the minimum and maximum limits of 2 will sum to 100 %. For any individual fluorescent UV device operating with UVA
Table 1. Test results can be expected to differ between exposures using devices 351 lamps, the calculated percentage in each bandpass must fall within the
with fluorescent UVA-340 lamps in which the spectral power distributions differ by minimum and maximum limits of Table 2. Test results can be expected to differ
as much as that allowed by the tolerances. Contact the manufacturer of the between exposures using fluorescent UV devices in which the spectral power
fluorescent UV devices for specific spectral power distribution data for the distributions differ by as much as that allowed by the tolerances. Contact the
fluorescent UVA-340 lamp used. manufacturer of the fluorescent UV devices for specific spectral power distribution
D
The benchmark solar radiation data is defined in ASTM G177 and is for data for the lamps used.
atmospheric conditions and altitude chosen to maximize the fraction of short D
The window glass filtered solar radiation data is for a solar spectrum with
wavelength solar UV. While this data is provided for comparison purposes only, it atmospheric conditions and altitude chosen to maximize the fraction of short
is desirable for the laboratory accelerated light source to provide a spectrum that wavelength solar UV (defined in ASTM G177) that has been filtered by window
is a close match to the benchmark solar spectrum. glass. The glass transmission is the average for a series of single strength window
E
For the benchmark daylight spectrum, the UV irradiance (290 to 400 nm) is 9.8% glasses tested as part of a research study for ASTM Subcommittee G3.02 (3).
and the visible irradiance (400 to 800 nm) is 90.2% expressed as a percentage of While this data is provided for comparison purposes only, it is desirable for the
the total irradiance from 290 to 800 nm. Because the primary emission of laboratory accelerated light source to provide a spectrum that is a close match to
fluorescent UV lamps is concentrated in the 290 to 400 nm bandpass, there are this benchmark window glass filtered solar spectrum.
limited visible light emissions from fluorescent UV lamps. E
For the benchmark window glass filtered solar spectrum, the UV irradiance (300
to 400 nm) is 8.2 % and the visible irradiance (400 to 800 nm) is 91.8 % expressed
as a percentage of the total irradiance from 300 to 800 nm. Because the primary
emission of fluorescent UV lamps is concentrated in the 290 to 400 nm bandpass,
there are limited visible light emissions from fluorescent UV lamps.
NOTE 9—Fluorescent UVB lamps have the spectral distribution of
radiation peaking near the 313-nm mercury line, and as such, are not
recommended for sunlight simulation. They emit significant amounts of
radiation below 295 nm, the nominal cut on wavelength of global solar
radiation, that may result in aging processes not occurring outdoors. See
Table 3. dance with manufacturer’s instructions. Calibration should be
traceable to a national metrological institute (NMI).
6.2 Test Chamber—The design of the test chamber may
vary, but it should be constructed from corrosion resistant 6.4 Radiometer—The use of a radiometer to monitor and
material and, in addition to the light source, may provide for control the amount of radiant energy received at the sample is
means of controlling temperature and relative humidity. When recommended. If a radiometer is used, it shall comply with the
required, provision shall be made for the spraying of water on requirements in Practice G151.
the test specimen for the formation of condensate on the
6.5 Thermometer—Either insulated or un-insulated black or
exposed face of the specimen or for the immersion of the test
white panel thermometers may be used. The un-insulated
specimen in water.
thermometers may be made of either steel or aluminum.
6.2.1 The light source(s) shall be located with respect to the
Thermometers shall conform to the descriptions found in
specimens such that the uniformity of irradiance at the speci-
Practice G151.
men face complies with the requirements in Practice G151.
6.2.2 Lamp replacement, lamp rotation, and specimen repo- NOTE 10—Typically, these devices control by un-insulated black panel
sitioning may be required to obtain uniform exposure of all thermometer only.
specimens to UV radiation and temperature. Follow manufac- 6.5.1 The thermometer shall be mounted on the specimen
turer’s recommendation for lamp replacement and rotation. rack so that its surface is in the same relative position and
6.3 Calibration—To ensure standardization and accuracy, subjected to the same influences as the test specimens.
the instruments associated with the exposure apparatus (for 6.5.2 The apparatus may provide chamber air temperature
example, timers, thermometers, UV sensors, and radiometers) control. Positioning and calibration of chamber air temperature
require periodic calibration to ensure repeatability of test sensors shall be in accordance with the descriptions found in
results. Calibration schedule and procedure shall be in accor- Practice G151.

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 G154 − 16
TABLE 3 Relative Spectral Power Distribution Specification for 6.6.3 Relative Humidity—The test chamber may be
Fluorescent UVB 313 lampsA,B equipped with a means to measure and control the relative
Spectral humidity. Such instruments shall be shielded from the lamp
Bandpass Minimum Benchmark Solar Maximum
Wavelength λ in PercentC Radiation PercentD,E PercentC radiation.
nm
6.7 Specimen Holders—Holders for test specimens shall be
λ < 290 1.3 5.4
290 # λ # 320 47.8 5.8 65.9
made from corrosion resistant materials that will not affect the
320 < λ # 360 26.9 40.0 43.9 test results. Corrosion resistant alloys of aluminum or stainless
360 < λ # 400 1.7 54.2 7.2 steel have been found acceptable. Brass, steel, or copper shall
A
Data in Table 3 are the irradiance in the given bandpass expressed as a not be used in the vicinity of the test specimens.
percentage of the total irradiance from 250 to 400 nm. The manufacturer is
responsible for determining conformance to Table 3. Annex A1 states how to 7. Test Specimen
determine relative spectral irradiance.
B
The data in Table 3 are based on the rectangular integration of 44 spectral power 7.1 Refer to Practice G151 for guidance on test specimen
distributions for fluorescent UV devices operating with UVB 313 lamps of various form and preparation, number of test specimens, and specimen
lots and ages. The spectral power distribution data is for lamps within the aging
recommendations of the device manufacturer. The minimum and maximum data storage and conditioning.
are at least the three sigma limits from the mean for all measurements.
C
The minimum and maximum columns will not necessarily sum to 100 % because 8. Exposure Conditions
they represent the minimum and maximum for the data used. For any individual
spectral power distribution, the calculated percentage for the bandpasses in Table 8.1 The user shall define the exposure conditions appropri-
3 will sum to 100 %. For any individual UVB 313 lamp, the calculated percentage ate for their application. Any exposure conditions may be used
in each bandpass must fall within the minimum and maximum limits of Table 3. Test as long as the exact conditions are detailed in the report.
results can be expected to differ between exposures conducted in fluorescent UV
devices using UVB 313 lamps in which the spectral power distributions differ by as Appendix X2 lists exposure conditions taken from several
much as that allowed by the tolerances. Contact the manufacturer of the material test methods. These conditions are provided for
fluorescent UV device for specific spectral power distribution data for the device reference only; none are specifically preferred and no recom-
operated with the UVB 313 lamp used.
D
The benchmark solar radiation data is defined in ASTM G177 and is for mendations are implied. This practice is not intended as a
atmospheric conditions and altitude chosen to maximize the fraction of short primary means for defining exposure cycles for a given
wavelength solar UV. This data is provided for comparison purposes only.
E
For the benchmark solar spectrum, the UV irradiance (290 to 400 nm) is 9.8%
application. Refer to the appropriate international standard for
and the visible irradiance (400 to 800 nm) is 90.2 % expressed as a percentage of defining an appropriate exposure cycle.
the total irradiance from 290 to 800 nm. Because the primary emission of
fluorescent UV lamps is concentrated in the 290 to 400 nm bandpass, there are 9. Procedure
limited visible light emissions from fluorescent UV lamps.
9.1 Identify each test specimen by suitable indelible
marking, but not on areas used in testing.
9.2 Determine which property of the test specimens will be
evaluated. Prior to exposing the specimens, quantify the
6.6 Moisture—A means for exposing the specimen to mois- appropriate properties in accordance with recognized ASTM or
ture shall be provided. The moisture may be in the form of international standards. If required (for example, destructive
water spray, condensation, or humidity. testing), use unexposed file specimens to quantify the property.
6.6.1 Water Spray—The test chamber may be equipped with See ISO 4582 for detailed guidance.
a means to introduce intermittent water spray onto the test 9.3 Mounting of Test Specimens—Attach the specimens to
specimens under specified conditions. The spray shall be the specimen holders in the equipment in such a manner that
uniformly distributed over the samples. The spray system shall the specimens are not subject to any unnecessary applied
be made from corrosion resistant materials that do not con- stress. To assure uniform exposure conditions, fill all of the
taminate the water used. spaces, using blank panels of corrosion resistant material if
[Link] Spray Water Quality—Spray water shall have a necessary.
conductivity below 5 µS/cm, contain less than 1-ppm solids, 9.3.1 Masking or shielding the face of test specimens with
and leave no observable stains or deposits on the specimens. an opaque cover for the purpose of showing the effects of
Very low levels of silica in spray water can cause significant exposure on one panel is not recommended. Misleading results
deposits on the surface of test specimens. Care should be taken may be obtained by this procedure, since the masked portion of
to keep silica levels below 0.2 ppm. In addition to distillation, the specimen is still exposed to temperature and humidity that
a combination of deionization and reverse osmosis can effec- in many cases will affect results.
tively produce water of the required quality. The pH of the NOTE 11—Evaluation of color, appearance, and other property changes
water used should be reported. See Practice G151 for detailed of exposed materials should be made based on comparisons to unexposed
specimens of the same material that have been stored in the dark.
water quality instructions.
6.6.2 Condensation—The test chamber may be equipped 9.4 Exposure to Test Conditions—Program the selected test
with a means to cause condensation to form on the face of the conditions to operate continuously throughout the required
test specimen exposed to test chamber conditions (front side). number of repetitive cycles. Maintain these conditions
Typically, water vapor is generated by heating water and filling throughout the exposure. Interruptions to service the apparatus
the chamber with hot vapor, which then is made to condense on and to inspect specimens shall be minimized.
the test specimens by convective cooling on the back side of 9.5 Specimen Repositioning—Periodic repositioning of the
the specimens. specimens during exposure is not necessary if the irradiance at

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 G154 − 16
the positions farthest from the center of the specimen area is at 9.8 Expose the test specimens for the specified period of
least 90 % of that measured at the center of the exposure area. exposure. See Practice G151 for further guidance.
Irradiance uniformity shall be determined in accordance with 9.9 At the end of the exposure, quantify the appropriate
Practice G151. change in properties in accordance with recognized ASTM or
9.5.1 If irradiance at positions farther from the center of the other international standards and report the results in confor-
exposure area is between 70 and 90 % of that measured at the mance with Practice G151.
center, one of the following three techniques shall be used for
specimen placement. NOTE 12—Periods of exposure and evaluation of test results are
addressed in Practice G151.
[Link] Periodically reposition specimens during the expo-
sure period to ensure that each receives an equal amount of
10. Report
radiant exposure. The repositioning schedule shall be agreed
upon by all interested parties. 10.1 The test report shall conform to Practice G151. It shall
[Link] Place specimens only in the exposure area where the include a description of test specimens, exposure conditions,
irradiance is at least 90 % of the maximum irradiance. type of lamps, duration of exposure, etc.
[Link] To compensate for exposure variability within the
apparatus, randomly position replicate specimens within the 11. Precision and Bias
exposure area that meets the irradiance uniformity require- 11.1 As stated in the scope, this practice does not produce a
ments as defined in 9.5.1. specific result. As such, a precision and bias statement is not
9.6 Inspection—If it is necessary to remove a test specimen appropriate. A precision and bias statement is appropriate for
for periodic inspection, take care not to handle or disturb the the result of a specific exposure in combination with a property
test surface. After inspection, the test specimen shall be measurement.
returned to the test chamber with its test surface in the same
orientation as previously exposed. 12. Keywords
9.7 Maintenance—The apparatus requires periodic mainte- 12.1 accelerated; accelerated weathering; durability; expo-
nance to maintain control of the exposure parameters. Perform sure; fluorescent UV lamps; laboratory weathering; light;
required maintenance and calibration in accordance with lightfastness; non-metallic materials; temperature; ultraviolet;
manufacturer’s instructions. weathering

ANNEX

(Mandatory Information for Equipment Manufacturers)

A1. DETERMINING CONFORMANCE TO RELATIVE SPECTRAL POWER DISTRIBUTION TABLES

A1.1 Conformance to the relative spectral power distribu- spectral power distribution data to the spectral power distribu-
tion tables is a design parameter for fluorescent UV device with tion requirements of this practice, use the rectangular integra-
the different lamps that can be used. Manufacturers of equip- tion technique.
ment claiming conformance to this practice shall determine
conformance to the spectral power distribution tables for all A1.3 To determine whether a specific fluorescent UV lamp
fluorescent lamps provided, and provide information on main- for a fluorescent UV device meets the requirements of Table 1,
tenance procedures to minimize any spectral changes that may Table 2, or Table 3, measure the spectral power distribution
occur during normal use. from the lower wavelength indicated in Eq A1.1 to an upper
wavelength of 400 nm. Typically, this is done at 2 nm
A1.2 The relative spectral power distribution data for this increments. The total irradiance in each wavelength bandpass
practice were developed using the rectangular integration is then summed and divided by the specified total UV
technique. Eq A1.1 is used to determine the relative spectral irradiance according to Eq A1.1. Use of this equation requires
irradiance using rectangular integration. Other integration tech-
that each spectral interval must be the same (for example, 2
niques can be used to evaluate spectral power distribution data,
nm) throughout the spectral region used.
but may give different results. When comparing relative

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 G154 − 16
λ i 5B
A = lower wavelength of wavelength bandpass,
(E
λ i 5A
λi
B = upper wavelength of wavelength bandpass,
IR 5 3 100 (A1.1)
λ i 5400
C = lower wavelength of total UV bandpass used for calcu-
(
λ i 5C
E λi lating relative spectral irradiance (290 nm for UVA 340
lamps, 300 nm for UVA 351 lamps, or 250 nm for UVB
where: 313 lamps), and
IR = relative irradiance in percent, λi = wavelength at which irradiance was measured.
E = irradiance at wavelength λi (irradiance steps must be
equal for all bandpasses),

APPENDIXES

(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. APPLICATION GUIDELINES FOR TYPICAL FLUORESCENT UV LAMPS

X1.1 General
X1.1.1 A variety of fluorescent UV lamps may be used in
this practice. The lamps shown in this section are representa-
tive of their type. Other lamps, or combinations of lamps, may
be used (see Section 6.1.1). The particular application deter-
mines which lamp should be used. The lamps discussed in this
Appendix differ in the total amount of UV energy emitted and
their wavelength spectrum. Differences in lamp energy or
spectrum may cause significant differences in test results. A
detailed description of the type(s) of lamp(s) used shall be
stated in detail in the test report.
X1.1.2 All spectral power distributions (SPDs) shown in
this section are representative only and are not meant to be
used to calculate or estimate total radiant exposure for tests in
fluorescent UV devices. Actual irradiance levels at the test
specimen surface will vary due to the type and/or manufacturer FIG. X1.1 Spectral Power Distributions of UVA-340 Lamp and
of the lamp used, the age of the lamps, the distance to the lamp Sunlight
array, and the air temperature within the chamber.
NOTE X1.1—All SPDs in this appendix were measured using a
spectroradiometer with a double grating monochromator (1-nm band pass) earth’s surface and is responsible for causing considerable
with a quartz cosine receptor. The fluorescent UV SPDs were measured at damage to some polymers. There are two commonly available
the sample plane in the center of the allowed sample area. SPDs for types of UVB-313 lamps that meet the requirements of this
sunlight were measured in Phoenix, AZ at solar noon at the summer document. These are known commercially as the UVB-313
solstice with a clear sky, with the spectroradiometer on an equatorial and the FS-40. These lamps emit different amounts of total
follow-the-sun mount.
energy, but both peak at 313 nm and produce the same UV
X1.2 Simulations of Direct Solar UV Radiation Expo- wavelengths in the same relative proportions. The FS-40 lamp
sures was originally designed for non-irradiance-controlled appara-
X1.2.1 UVA-340 Lamps—For simulations of direct solar tuses and has been typically superseded by UVB-313 lamps in
UV radiation the UVA-340 lamp is recommended. Because irradiance-controlled apparatuses. In tests using the same
UVA-340 lamps typically have little or no UV output below cycles and temperatures, shorter times to failure are typically
295 nm (that is considered the “cut-on” wavelength for observed when the lamp with higher UV irradiance is used.
terrestrial sunlight), they usually do not degrade materials as Furthermore, tests using the same cycles and temperatures with
rapidly as UVB lamps, but they may allow enhanced correla- these two lamps may exhibit differences in ranking of materials
tion with actual outdoor weathering. Tests using UVA-340 due to difference in the proportion of UV to moisture and
lamps have been found useful for comparing different nonme- temperature.
tallic materials such as polymers, geotextiles, and UV stabiliz- NOTE X1.2—The Fig. X1.2 illustrates the difference between the lamps.
ers. Fig. X1.1 illustrates the SPD of the UVA-340 lamp X1.2.2.1 All UVB-313 lamps emit UV below the normal
compared to noon, summer sunlight. sunlight cut-on. This short wavelength UV can produce rapid
X1.2.2 UVB-313 Lamps—The UVB region (280 to 315 nm) polymer degradation and often causes degradation by mecha-
includes the shortest wavelengths found in sunlight at the nisms that do not occur when materials are exposed to sunlight.

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cut-on of this lamp is similar to that of direct sunlight which
has been filtered through window glass (Fig. X1.4).
NOTE X1.3—UVB-313 lamps are not recommended for simulations of
sunlight through window glass. Most of the emission of UVB-313 lamps
is in the short wavelength UV that is filtered very efficiently by glass.
Because of this, very little energy from this short wavelength region will
reach materials in “behind glass” applications. This is because window
glass filters out about 80 % of the energy from UVB-313 lamps, as shown
in Fig. X1.5. As a result of filtering out these short wavelengths, its total
effective energy is very limited. Further, because there is little longer
wavelength energy, the glass-filtered UVB-313 is actually less severe than
a UVA Lamp.

X1.4 Simulations of Exposures Where Glass or Transpar-

ent Plastic Forms Part of the Test Specimen
X1.4.1 UVA-340 Lamps—In some instances, glass or trans-
parent plastic is part of the test specimen itself, and is oriented
such that the glass or transparent plastic is between the light
FIG. X1.2 Spectral Power Distributions of UVB Lamps and Sun-
source and part of the specimen of interest (for example,
light
window sealants on the back side of a glass substrate). In these
special cases, the use of UVA-340 lamps is recommended since
This may lead to anomalous results. Fig. X1.2 shows the the glass or transparent plastic will filter the spectrum of the
spectral power distribution (SPD) of typical UVB-313 lamps lamp in the same way that it would filter sunlight. Fig. X1.6
compared to the SPD of noon, summer sunlight. compares the spectral power distribution of sunlight filtered
through window glass to the spectral power distribution of the
X1.3 Simulations of Exposures to Solar UV Radiation
UVA-340 lamp, both unfiltered and filtered through window
Through Window Glass
glass.
X1.3.1 Filtering Effect of Glass—Glass of any type acts as
NOTE X1.4—UVB-313 lamps are not recommended for exposures
a filter on the sunlight spectrum (see Fig. X1.3). Ordinary glass
where glass or transparent plastic forms part of the test specimen. See
is essentially transparent to light above about 370 nm. Note X1.3.
However, the filtering effect becomes more pronounced with NOTE X1.5—UVA-351 lamps are not recommended for exposures
decreasing wavelength. The shorter, more damaging UVB where glass or transparent plastic forms part of the test specimen. This is
wavelengths are the most greatly affected. Window glass filters because the UVA-351 has a spectral power distribution in the short wave
UV region that is similar to sunlight that has already been filtered by
out most of the wavelengths below about 310 nm. For purposes window glass. As shown in Fig. X1.7, using this lamp through window
of illustration, only one type of window glass is used in the glass or other transparent material further filters out the short wavelength
accompanying graphs. Note that glass transmission character- UV and results in a spectrum that is deficient in the short wavelength UV.
istics will vary due to manufacturer, production lot, thickness, NOTE X1.6—As used in Section X1.4 and Note X1.4 and Note X1.5, the
or other factors. terms glass and transparent plastic are meant to only include UV-
absorbing glass and UV-absorbing transparent plastic. There are some
X1.3.2 UVA-351 Lamps—For simulations of sunlight forms of glass and transparent plastic that do not absorb UV, though this
through window glass, UVA-351 lamps are recommended. The is generally an exception.
UVA-351 is used for these applications because the low end

FIG. X1.4 Spectral Power Distributions of UVA-351 Lamp and

FIG. X1.3 Direct Sunlight and Sunlight Through Window Glass Sunlight Through Window Glass

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FIG. X1.5 Spectral Power Distributions of Unfiltered UVB-313

Lamp, UVB-313 Through Window Glass, and Sunlight Through
Window Glass

FIG. X1.6 Spectral Power Distributions of Unfiltered UVA-340

Lamp, UVA-340 Through Window Glass, and Sunlight Through
Window Glass

FIG. X1.7 Spectral Power Distributions of Unfiltered UVA-351

Lamp, UVA-351 Through Window Glass, and Sunlight Through
Window Glass

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X2. EXPOSURE CONDITIONS

X2.1 Any exposure conditions may be used, as long as the temperatures (see Note X2.5).
exact conditions are detailed in the report. Following are
exposure conditions taken from several material test methods. X2.2 For the most consistent results, it is recommended that
These are not necessarily preferred and no recommendation is apparatus without feed-back-loop control of irradiance be
implied. These conditions are provided for reference only (see operated in an environment in which the ambient temperature
Table X2.1). is maintained between 18 and 27°C. Apparatus operated in
NOTE X2.1—This information is provided for historical reference only. ambient temperatures above or below this range may produce
It is not intended to be comprehensive or current, nor should it be relied irradiances different from devices operated in the recom-
upon for any specific end use application.
NOTE X2.2—When selecting programs of UV exposure followed by mended manner.
condensation, allow at least 2 h per interval to assure attainment of NOTE X2.7—Fluorescent UV lamps emit relatively little infrared
equilibrium. radiation when compared to xenon arc and carbon arc sources. In
NOTE X2.3—Surface temperature of specimens is an essential test fluorescent UV apparatus, the primary heating of the specimen surface is
quantity. Generally, degradation processes accelerate with increasing by convection from heated air passing across the panel. Therefore, there is
temperature. The specimen temperature permissible for the accelerated a minimal difference between the temperature of an insulated or uninsu-
test depends on the material to be tested and on the aging criterion under lated black or white panel thermometer, specimen surface, air in the test
consideration. chamber, or different colored samples (3).
NOTE X2.4—Irradiance data shown is typical.
NOTE X2.5—The light output of fluorescent lamps is affected by the
temperature of the air which surrounds the lamps. Consequently, in
X2.3 For operational fluctuations, see Table X2.2.
apparatuses without feed-back-loop control of irradiance, the lamp output NOTE X2.8—Unless otherwise specified, operate the apparatus to
will decrease with increasing chamber temperature. maintain the operational fluctuations specified in Table X2.2 for the
NOTE X2.6—Laboratory ambient temperature may have an effect on the parameters in Table X2.1. If the actual operating conditions do not agree
light output of devices without feed-back-loop control of irradiance. Some with the allowed fluctuations from the machine settings after the equip-
fluorescent UV devices use laboratory ambient air to cool the lamps and ment has stabilized, discontinue the test and correct the cause of the
thereby compensate for the drop in light output at higher exposure disagreement before continuing.

TABLE X2.1 Some Historical Exposure Conditions

Original Reference and
Typical Approximate
Cycle Lamp Exposure Cycle Application,
Irradiance Wavelength
Where Known
1 UVA-340 0.89 W/(m2 • nm) 340 nm 8 h UV at 60 (±3) °C Black Panel Temperature; D4329 cycle A for general
4 h Condensation at 50 (±3) °C Black Panel Temperature Plastics; D4587 Cycle 4
for general metal coatings;
C1442 for sealants

2 UVB-313 0.71 W/(m2 • nm) 310 nm 4 h UV at 60 (±3) °C Black Panel Temperature; Unknown
4 h Condensation at 50 (±3) °C Black Panel Temperature

3 UVB-313 0.49 W/(m2 • nm) 310 nm 8 h UV at 70 (±3) °C Black Panel Temperature; SAE J2020
4 h Condensation at 50 (±3) °C Black Panel Temperature

4 UVA-340 1.55 W/(m2 • nm) 340 nm 8 h UV at 70 (±3) °C Black Panel Temperature; Unknown
4 h Condensation at 50 (±3) °C Black Panel Temperature

5 UVB-313 0.62 W/(m2 • nm) 310 nm 20 h UV at 80 (±3) °C Black Panel Temperature; Unknown
4 h Condensation at 50 (±3) °C Black Panel Temperature

6 UVA-340 1.55 W/(m2 • nm) 340 nm 8 h UV at 60 (±3) °C Black Panel Temperature; Unknown
4 h Condensation at 50 (±3) °C Black Panel Temperature.

7 UVA-340 1.55 W/(m2 • nm) 340 nm 8 h UV at 60 (±3) °C Black Panel Temperature; Unknown
0.25 h water spray (no light), temperature not controlled;
3.75 h condensation at 50 (±3) °C Black Panel Temperature

8 UVB-313 28 W/m2 270 to 700 nm 8 h UV at 70 (±3) °C Black Panel Temperature; Unknown

4 h Condensation at 50 (±3) °C Black Panel Temperature

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TABLE X2.2 Operational Fluctuations On Exposure Conditions
Maximum Allowable Deviation from the Set Point at the Control Point Indicated by the Readout of the
Parameter
Calibrated Control Sensor During Equilibrium Operation
Black Panel Temperature ±2.5°C
Irradiance (monitored at 340 nm or monitored at 310 nm) ±.02 W/(m2 • nm)
Irradiance (monitored at 270– 700 nm) ±0.5 W/m2

X3. BENCHMARK SOLAR UV SPECTRUM

X3.1 This practice uses a benchmark solar spectrum based TABLE X3.1 Atmospheric Conditions Used for Benchmark Solar
on atmospheric conditions that provide for very high level of Spectrum
solar ultraviolet radiation. This benchmark solar spectrum is Atmospheric Benchmark
Condition Solar Spectrum
published in ASTM G177, Standard Tables for Reference Solar
Ozone (atm-cm) 0.30
Ultraviolet Spectral Distributions: Hemispherical on 37 degree Precipitable water vapor (cm) 0.57
Tilted Surface. The solar spectrum is calculated using the Altitude (m) 2000
Tilt angle 37° facing Equator
SMARTS2 solar radiation model (4-6). ASTM Adjunct Air mass 1.05
ADJG0173, SMARTS2 Solar Radiation Model for Spectral Albedo (ground reflectance) Light Soil
Radiation,5 provides the program and documentation for cal- wavelength
dependent
culating solar spectral irradiance. Aerosol extinction Shettle & Fenn Rural
(humidity dependent)
Aerosol optical thickness at 500 nm 0.05

5
Available from ASTM International Headquarters. Order Adjunct No.
ADJG0173.

TABLE X3.2 Irradiance for Benchmark Solar Spectrum

Benchmark
Bandpass
Solar Spectrum
Irradiance (W/m2) in stated bandpass
λ < 290 0.000
290 # λ # 320 3.748
320 < λ # 360 25.661
360 < λ # 400 34.762
290 # λ # 400 64.171
290 # λ # 800 652.300
Percent of 290 to 400 nm irradiance
λ < 290 0.0 %
290 < λ # 320 5.8 %
320 < λ # 360 40.0 %
360 < λ # 400 54.2 %
Percent of 290 to 800 nm irradiance
290 # λ # 400 9.8 %

REFERENCES

(1) Mullen, P. A., Kinmonth, R. A., and Searle, N. D., “Spectral Energy (5) Gueymard, C. A., Myers, D., and Emery, K., “Proposed Reference
Distributions and Aging Characteristics of Fluorescent Sun Lamps Irradiance Spectra for Solar Energy Systems Testing,” Solar Energy,
and Black Lights,” Journal of Testing and Evaluation, Vol 3, No. 1, Vol 73, No 6, 2002, pp. 443–467.
1975, pp. 15–20. (6) Myers, D. R., Emery, K., and Gueymard, C., “Revising and Validating
(2) Fedor, G. R., and Brennan, P. J., “Irradiance Control in Fluorescent Spectral Irradiance Reference Standards for Photovoltaic Performance
UV Exposure Testors,” Accelerated and Outdoor Durability Testing of Evaluation,” Transactions of the American Society of Mechanical
Organic Materials, ASTM STP 1202, American Society for Testing Engineers, Journal of Solar Energy Engineering, Vol 126, February
and Materials, 1993. 2004, pp. 567–574.
(3) Ketola, W., Robbins, J. S., “UV Transmission of Single Strength (7) Fischer, R. M., “Results of Round-Robin Studies of Light- and
Window Glass,” Accelerated and Outdoor Durability Testing of Water-Exposure Standard Practices,” Accelerated and Outdoor Du-
Organic Materials. ASTM STP 1202, Warren D. Ketola and Douglas rability Testing of Organic Materials, ASTM STP 1202, Warren K.
Grossman, Editors, American Society for Testing and Materials, 1993. Ketola and Douglas Grossman, Editors, American Society for Testing
(4) Gueymard, C., “Parameterized Transmittance Model for Direct Beam and Materials, 1993.
and Circumsolar Spectral Irradiance,” Solar Energy, Vol 71, No. 5, (8) Fischer, R. M., and Ketola, W. D., “Surface Temperatures of Materials
2001, pp. 325–346. in Exterior Exposures and Artificial Accelerated Tests,” Accelerated

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 G154 − 16
and Outdoor Durability Testing of Organic Materials, ASTM STP Society for Testing and Materials, 1993.
1202, Warren K. Ketola and Douglas Grossman, Editors, American

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Committee G03 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue (G154–12a)
that may impact the use of this standard.

(1) Numerous technical and editorial changes have been made

throughout the document to increase clarity and readability.

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