Overview
ISO/TS 4767:2024 - Plastics: Method of exposure to electrodeless plasma radiation sources specifies an accelerated photo‑degradation test method using electrodeless plasma lamps to simulate the UV component of global solar radiation. The Technical Specification is intended to evaluate or predict short‑term degradation and failure of plastics and plastic products caused by photo‑degradation. Specimen preparation and post‑exposure property evaluation are addressed in companion standards.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Radiation source: Use electrodeless plasma lamps with spectral irradiance tailored to simulate global solar radiation (CIE 241, CIE‑H1). A 300 nm cut‑on filter and the lamp spectral requirements are defined in the document (see Table 1 and Annex A).
- Irradiance control: Default UV irradiance target is (300 ± 15) W/m² (broadband 300–400 nm); other levels may be used by agreement. Record irradiance and wavelength passband in reports.
- Temperature control: Black‑panel temperature is normally controlled at (70 ± 3) °C unless otherwise agreed.
- Uniformity: Exposure area irradiance must be at least 90% of the maximum within the specimen area; periodic specimen repositioning is recommended for some materials.
- Instrumentation: Radiometers and black‑panel thermometers must conform to ISO 4892‑1 and ISO 9370 requirements. Radiant exposure can be expressed in J/m² (300–400 nm) or per nm at a selected wavelength (e.g., 340 nm).
- Specimen handling: Use inert specimen holders and avoid metals (brass, copper, steel) near specimens. Mount specimens without mechanical stress; at least three specimens per run are recommended to support statistical analysis.
- Reporting: Test reports shall follow ISO 4892‑1 and explicitly state the spectral irradiance used (e.g., with 300 nm cut‑on filter per Table 1).
Practical applications
- Accelerated weathering and photo‑degradation testing of plastics, coatings, adhesives and composite materials.
- Material development, formulation optimization, quality control and failure analysis where rapid assessment of UV stability is required.
- Comparative screening of additives (UV stabilizers, pigments) and lifetime prediction for products used in outdoor or high‑UV environments (automotive, construction, consumer goods, packaging).
Who should use this standard
- Test laboratories performing accelerated UV exposure and material durability testing.
- Materials scientists, product engineers and R&D teams evaluating UV resistance.
- OEMs and manufacturers needing standardized test methods for specifications and supplier qualification.
- Regulatory bodies and certification agencies referencing standardized weathering procedures.
Related standards
- ISO 4892‑1 - Methods of exposure to laboratory light sources (general guidance)
- ISO 4582 - Determination of colour and property changes after exposure
- ISO 9370 - Instrumental determination of radiant exposure in weathering tests
Keywords: ISO/TS 4767:2024, electrodeless plasma, photo‑degradation, plastics, accelerated weathering, UV irradiance, black‑panel temperature, spectral irradiance.