Effect of Xenon Aging Test Chamber Temperature on Automotive Dashboard Materials
September 12 11:24:03, 2025
In the process of using automotive materials, especially non-metallic ones, exposure to environmental conditions often leads to varying degrees of aging. To extend the lifespan of automotive components and materials, manufacturers conduct outdoor life tests to estimate their service duration. However, natural environment testing is time-consuming. As a result, many companies recommend using a xenon lamp aging test chamber as an efficient alternative. But how does temperature affect dashboard materials in this type of test? Let’s take a closer look:
1. Temperature plays a critical role in the degradation of polymer materials. The heat generated during testing can cause the breaking of chemical bonds, leading to material deterioration. At higher temperatures, molecular activity increases, making the material more susceptible to thermal aging. Conversely, at lower temperatures, the reaction rate slows down or may even stop entirely.
2. The temperature inside the xenon lamp aging test chamber directly impacts the speed of chemical reactions. Higher temperatures accelerate the effects of light on material aging. It is commonly accepted that for every 10°C increase in temperature, the rate of chemical reactions roughly doubles, which significantly affects the aging process of automotive parts.
3. Thermal cycling also contributes to the aging of non-metallic automotive materials. Repeated temperature changes create internal mechanical stress, causing dimensional changes in parts. In extreme cases, these cycles can worsen existing defects, leading to issues such as warping, cracking, or deformation.
Automotive interior materials, particularly dashboard components, are exposed to higher temperatures compared to exterior parts. Dashboard materials are especially vulnerable due to direct sunlight exposure, with temperatures sometimes exceeding 100°C. This makes temperature a key factor in the photoaging of dashboard materials. Understanding the impact of temperature in xenon lamp aging tests is essential for developing durable and long-lasting automotive components.
By simulating real-world conditions, these tests help engineers predict material performance and ensure safety and reliability over time.