Earth Day is celebrated throughout the world on April 22nd. This presents an excellent occasion to think about how we can protect our planet with its valuable resources and rich nature.
This year’s theme is “Planet vs. Plastics”. Since all polymers are susceptible to environmental degradation, understanding their weather resistance and durability can help to reduce waste and landfill volume.
Natural Weathering is Carbon Neutral
Static outdoor weathering is perhaps the only type of long-term testing that generally does not require the use of external resources. The three major weathering factors - radiation, heat, and water - are delivered by the sun and the atmosphere.
Challenge of Laboratory Weathering
Things look different in the laboratory. The power consumption of a weathering instrument is undoubtedly high because the xenon lamp must simulate the maximum power of solar radiation in the UV, visible, and IR spectral ranges. Since acceleration is fundamentally limited, realistic weathering tests typically take weeks or months.
Nevertheless, modern weathering devices are continuously optimized with regard to sustainability, for example by circulating cooling water for the xenon lamp. In addition, Atlas’ production processes, material selection, and procurement logistics must comply with increasingly stringent sustainability and environmental compatibility requirements. Finally, the recyclability of our devices is already included into the product life cycle plans.
Weathering Testing Serves Sustainability
Accelerated weathering tests are not only indispensable. They also strongly promote sustainability. Most important: Accelerated weathering tests provide information about the service life of products in a short time. This information is crucial for choosing the most economical material solutions. Avoiding premature product failures helps reducing waste, rejects, and landfill volumes.
Weathering testing also serves to avoid “over-engineering”. Additives can be added at their minimum required concentrations based on weathering data, reducing risks to environment and health.
Examples for Weathering-Related Sustainability Projects
More Information
For more information on laboratory and natural weathering, browse our knowledge center, check out videos and tutorials, download technical articles, or attend an educational class.