Effect of Xenon Aging Test Chamber Temperature on Automotive Dashboard Materials
September 12 11:37:42, 2025
In the process of using automotive materials, especially non-metallic components, exposure to environmental conditions often leads to varying degrees of aging. To extend the lifespan of vehicle parts and materials, manufacturers commonly conduct outdoor life tests to estimate service duration. However, these natural environment tests can take a long time. As an alternative, many companies recommend using a xenon lamp aging test chamber for more efficient and controlled testing. But how does temperature affect dashboard materials in this kind of test? Let’s take a closer look:
1. Temperature plays a critical role in the degradation of polymer materials. The heat generated during the test can break chemical bonds within the material, leading to its deterioration. At higher temperatures, molecular activity increases, which accelerates the aging process. Conversely, at lower temperatures, the reaction may be too slow or not occur at all.
2. The temperature inside the xenon lamp aging chamber directly impacts the rate of chemical reactions. Higher temperatures speed up the effects of light on material aging. It is widely accepted that for every 10°C increase in temperature, the chemical reaction rate roughly doubles. This means that temperature significantly influences the overall aging behavior of automotive materials.
3. Thermal cycling—repeated temperature changes—can further accelerate the aging of non-metallic automotive components. These cycles create internal mechanical stress, leading to dimensional changes in the materials. In extreme cases, high and low temperature fluctuations can worsen existing defects, resulting in issues like warping, cracking, or deformation.
Dashboard materials are particularly vulnerable because they are located inside the vehicle, where temperatures can rise significantly due to sunlight exposure. In some cases, the temperature can even exceed 100°C. This makes temperature a key factor in the photoaging of automotive dashboards. Understanding and controlling the temperature during xenon lamp aging tests is essential for accurately predicting material performance and ensuring long-term durability.
By simulating real-world conditions, the xenon lamp aging test chamber helps engineers evaluate how materials will perform over time, allowing for better design and material selection. This process is crucial for maintaining the quality and safety of automotive components under various environmental stresses.