Solar and UV Radiation Testing on Materials
At INFINITIA we carry out solar radiation and UV testing on materials as part of our specialized characterization and technical validation services. This type of testing makes it possible to simulate exposure conditions to sunlight and ultraviolet (UV) radiation, accelerating the effects of weathering aging and analyzing the resistance of materials and components to these external agents.
In our industrial laboratory we have UV aging chambers and state-of-the-art equipment, which allow us to reproduce different radiation and temperature profiles to assess the behavior of a wide range of materials under realistic or extreme conditions.
At INFINITIA, we help industrial companies predict the durability of their products, prevent in-service failures and optimize their design against solar exposure.
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What does solar radiation and UV testing involve?
What is it?
What does a solar radiation or UV test involve? This technical service is based on the controlled simulation of solar radiation using climatic chambers, capable of reproducing the combined action of ultraviolet light, temperature, humidity or even condensation.
The materials are exposed to standardized or customized conditions for a set period of time, after which an evaluation of their physical-mechanical, optical or functional properties is carried out.
At INFINITIA we can apply standards such as ISO 4892-2, ASTM G154, or develop specific methodologies tailored to each use case. Among the parameters studied are color loss, photodegradation, yellowing, reduced hardness or loss of mechanical strength. The goal is to understand how UV radiation affects materials over time, and to make technical decisions based on reliable data.
UV and solar radiation testing at INFINITIA
At INFINITIA we approach UV and solar radiation resistance testing with a comprehensive, flexible approach. In addition to carrying out standard tests according to regulations, we offer the option of developing custom tests, adjusting the radiation, humidity and temperature profile to the product’s real conditions of use.
We have specialists in materials engineering, climatic testing and failure analysis, who not only carry out the test but also analyze the results from a functional and forensic standpoint. Our ability to adapt protocols, carry out comparative testing, apply complementary techniques (such as microscopy, hardness, tensile testing or colorimetry) and issue complete technical reports is why leading industrial companies trust us to evaluate and optimize their materials against solar and UV exposure.
Advantages of carrying out UV and solar radiation testing
BENEFITS
One of the key benefits of this service is its usefulness for carrying out comparative testing between materials, making it possible to identify which one performs best under UV exposure. This is especially useful in projects involving material selection, compound substitution, product redesign or validation of new suppliers.
At INFINITIA we have helped companies in sectors such as automotive, construction, energy or packaging make informed decisions about which materials to use, how to improve the durability of their products, or how to adapt them to intense radiation conditions. This testing is also key for the approval of materials that must demonstrate resistance to accelerated aging, the definition of product specification requirements to meet specific regulatory or technical requirements, as well as supplier validation.
Types of Solar Radiation and UV Testing at INFINITIA
types
At INFINITIA, we develop different solar radiation and UV resistance testing to assess the behavior of materials exposed to weathering, photodegradation and accelerated aging conditions. We simulate real and extreme solar exposure conditions in the laboratory, making it possible to determine the durability and failure mode of materials and final products before their launch or during redesign.
Accelerated aging testing by UV radiation
These tests consist of exposing materials to intensive cycles of UV radiation, temperature and humidity inside specific climatic chambers (such as a UV Box or Xenon Test Chamber). We apply standards such as ISO 4892-2 or ASTM G154, adapting the test cycles to the use case. This type of testing is essential for anticipating degradation such as yellowing, loss of gloss, cracking or embrittlement.
For example, at INFINITIA we have validated the stability of films against UV-B radiation, ensuring more than 1,000 hours of exposure without functional loss.
Comparative UV resistance testing between materials
Through controlled testing, we compare how different materials respond to the same UV radiation exposure. We then apply techniques such as colorimetry, hardness, tensile testing or microscopy to assess the damage. This testing is key in material selection processes or supplier validation.
For example, we compared plastic coatings used in outdoor climate-control equipment, determining which one best retained its properties after 500 hours of UV irradiation.
Weathering testing and combined cycles
We reproduce complex weathering conditions that combine solar radiation, humidity, thermal cycles and condensation. This testing is carried out in climatic chambers with profiles adjusted to each sector or region.
We apply accelerated methodologies that make it possible to simulate years of exposure in just a few weeks.
In one case, we validated panels subjected to weathering cycles in a Xenon chamber, tracking color loss and surface cracking.
Custom testing based on final use
Each industrial application may require unique exposure conditions. At INFINITIA we design specific setups tailored to the real environment of use, adjusting intensity, wavelength, thermal cycles or exposure time.
For example, we developed an exclusive test to validate plastic components, simulating radiation combined with high ambient temperature and relative humidity typical of coastal areas.
Applications of Solar Radiation and UV Testing
sectors
The solar and ultraviolet (UV) radiation resistance testing makes it possible to anticipate problems arising from prolonged exposure to aggressive weather conditions. At INFINITIA, we help our clients validate the behavior of materials and products against photodegradation, discoloration, loss of mechanical properties or surface aging.
This type of analysis is essential in sectors where products operate outdoors or are exposed to high-intensity artificial light sources. Below are some of the main industrial applications.
Automotive
In the automotive sector, many plastic components, elastomers, metal coatings or technical textiles are directly exposed to solar radiation for long periods of time. This can cause color changes, embrittlement, cracking or loss of impact resistance, affecting not only appearance but also safety.
- At INFINITIA we carry out accelerated aging testing on various components to validate their stability against UV-A and UV-B cycles.
- We evaluate lacquers and paints for yellowing or loss of gloss using the ISO 4892-2 test in a Xenon chamber.
- We also analyze gaskets and rubber parts exposed to weathering, observing loss of elasticity or microcracks after prolonged exposure to solar radiation combined with humidity.
Energy
Solar generation equipment (photovoltaic panels, inverters, charging stations) operates in outdoor environments with high solar incidence. The durability of insulators, housings, encapsulants and connectors is key to preventing breakdowns or performance losses.
- At INFINITIA we have carried out comparative testing of EVA and TPU encapsulants used in solar modules, subjected to 1,000 hours of UV-B radiation with subsequent tracking by microscopy and tensile testing.
- We validate plastic housings against thermal cycles combined with UV to simulate desert or Mediterranean climates.
- We evaluate the UV resistance of technical labels exposed in the field (cable marking, modules, sensors), applying the ASTM G154 standard with colorimeter monitoring.
Packaging and containers
In sectors such as food, cosmetics or cleaning products, packaging can be exposed to UV radiation sources (on shelves, in transport or storage), which can cause visual alterations or unwanted migrations in materials.
- We test plastic films with pigments and inks to verify their resistance to yellowing, opacity and loss of flexibility after UV exposure.
- We validate radiation-resistant labels, comparing adhesive materials and varnishes for peeling or loss of information.
- We also analyze the stability of multilayer packaging to ensure it retains its properties after UV cycles.
Construction and architecture
Materials used in facades, roofing, exterior carpentry or street furniture must ensure high aesthetic and structural durability against prolonged exposure to the elements, including solar radiation.
- At INFINITIA we carry out accelerated aging testing on coatings and paints, measuring their adhesion resistance, color loss and gloss.
- We evaluate joint sealants, rubber parts and profiles through combined UV + humidity + temperature testing, determining loss of elasticity or the appearance of cracks.
- We also analyze panels under customized conditions to simulate marine or tropical environments.
Technical textiles and street furniture
Technical textiles used in awnings, industrial tarpaulins, PPE or outdoor furniture are subjected to demanding conditions of UV radiation, humidity, wind and abrasion, making it essential to ensure their functionality and appearance over time.
- We carry out colorfastness to light testing (ISO 105-B02) for dyed, printed or coated fabrics, observing possible discoloration or loss of properties.
- We evaluate technical fibers with antimicrobial and UV-resistant coatings, analyzing their degradation using microscopy and chemical analysis after prolonged exposure.
- We validate treated wood, resins and varnishes for street furniture exposed to UV + water + temperature cycles, simulating years of use in just a few weeks.
Ensure the durability of your materials with solar radiation testing
Value
Solar and UV radiation resistance testing has become established as an indispensable tool for companies that design, manufacture or integrate materials and products exposed to the outdoors. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause chemical degradation, aesthetic loss, structural fragility or functional failures, so anticipating these effects through controlled testing is key to ensuring the reliability and durability of the final product.
In this regard, INFINITIA offers a complete, adaptable and rigorous technical service that ranges from accelerated UV chamber testing, according to standards such as ISO 4892-2 or ASTM G154, to customized comparative studies between materials or product configurations. We also combine this testing with complementary analysis of hardness, color, mechanical properties or microscopic visualization, providing a comprehensive diagnosis of material behavior under radiation.
Thanks to our multidisciplinary approach, our ability to customize protocols, and our experience in forensic engineering, advanced characterization and product validation, INFINITIA positions itself as a strategic partner for industries seeking data-based technical solutions. Sectors such as automotive, energy, construction, electronics, packaging or technical textiles benefit directly from these studies to develop safer, more resistant and more competitive products.
