Discussion on Weathering Reference Materials
- Weathering reference materials are used to characterize the harshness of an exposure, aiming on either reproducibility of a specific exposure or on the comparability between various kinds of weathering exposure. The materials that are used as weathering reference materials differ in their sensitivities (as well as in interactions and interferences of the latter), conditioned by the different processes which lead to the respective property change. It is also essential to take into account the necessary measurement equipment for the respective property change, in order to allow timely intervention. What are the key issues on choosing a weathering reference material? What can be learned from the weathering reference materials, investigated so far? Possibilities and limitations are discussed on the basis of existing weathering reference materials. Conclusions are drawn, for establishing new weathering reference materials.