Solar simulation

FOGGING TEST IN THE
AUTOMOBILE INTERIOR

The fogging test is an essential test for materials used in vehicle interiors. It ensures that your components do not release unwanted volatile substances that could deposit on windows or other surfaces. The fogging test is an essential test for determining the outgassing of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from materials in the vehicle interior. It ensures that emissions, which can appear as fog or mist on cold surfaces such as windscreens, are minimized to ensure driver visibility and safety. These deposits can not only impair visibility, but also reduce the perceived quality and comfort in the vehicle.

AGEING OF VEHICLE COMPONENTS IN SOLAR SIMULATION SYSTEMS

Exposure to the sun's rays is one of the most intense environmental influences to which automotive components are exposed. To ensure that materials and components can withstand the challenges of daily use, precise simulation of natural solar radiation under controlled conditions is essential. Our solar simulation tests offer a comprehensive solution for evaluating the long-term resistance of materials to radiation, heat and humidity.

Sun simulation is suitable for a wide range of applications: From vehicle exterior trim and paintwork to interior components and highly sensitive components such as charging cables for electric vehicles. Our tests simulate both outdoor and indoor conditions in order to reproduce real-life loads as accurately as possible.

With our expertise, we support automotive manufacturers and suppliers in meeting the industry's high quality standards and ensuring the durability of their products even under extreme conditions. Discover how our solar simulation helps to make the future of the automotive industry safer and more sustainable.

CONTACT OUR EXPERTS

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Typical SoSi test procedure

Initial inspection: Before irradiation, the component is visually inspected to record important parameters such as color, gloss and material properties.
Ageing in the solar simulation chamber: The component is exposed to a controlled environment with a defined irradiance and temperature/humidity profile.
Temperature and humidity cycles: In addition to irradiation, temperature cycles (-40°C to +80°C) and controlled humidity values (up to 100% relative humidity) are frequently used.

Intermediate tests: During the test cycle, checks are carried out to document changes such as fading, embrittlement or cracking.
Final inspection: Once the test has been completed, a detailed final inspection is carried out to record changes of all kinds (e.g. color changes and structural damage).
Report preparation: We provide a test report with detailed results, such as photo documentation and measurement data from the test.
Return shipment (at the customer's request) of tested samples for further assessment

Typical tests before and after ageing

Before

Visual evaluation
Color and gloss measurement: metrological determination of color and gloss level
Photogrammetry
Scratch test
Abrasion resistance/ abrasion resistance
Emission and odor testing in the vehicle interior

Afterwards

Visual evaluation
Color & gloss: metrological change of color and evaluation according to the gray scale
Photogrammetry
Peel test (decorative goods )
Foam adhesion
Hardness test

Test facilities

Test room volume: Our test rooms vary in size from 0.9 m³ to 46 m³ and therefore offer sufficient space for everything from small components to complete vehicles. This flexibility enables us to test a wide variety of materials andcomponentsunderlaboratoryconditions.
Temperature range: Our test equipment is able to simulate temperatures from -60°C to +180°C. This enables comprehensive tests on temperature resistance and the ageing behavior of materials in hot and cold conditions.
Humidity range: With a relative humidity of 10% to 98% , our test systems cover a wide range of climatic conditions. From dry desert conditions to the high humidity found in tropical climates, we are able to test the moisture resistance of materials and components.

Examples of components

Exterior components

Paints and coatings
Plastic body parts (e.g. bumpers )
Headlights and rear lights
Exterior mirrors and mirror seals
aerials
Windshield wipers

Interior components

Instrument panel
Parcel shelf
Door panels
Trim and molded upholstery parts for vehicle interiors (composite components )
Dashboards
Trim in the load compartment and trunk
Interior trim
Steering wheels
Controls and switches

Special components

Polymer automotive components
Seals and rubber parts
Plastics
Adhesives and fasteners
Charging sockets and charging cables for electric vehicles
Sensors and cameras for driver assistance systems
Components for car-to-car communication

FAQ

Frequently asked questions about the fogging test

What is the fogging test? The fogging test measures the release of volatile substances from materials that can form deposits on surfaces such as windows.

How long does a fogging test take? As a rule, you will receive the results within a few days, depending on the complexity of the materials.

What do I do if the exam is negative? We offer you comprehensive advice and recommendations to take appropriate measures and find alternative materials.

What sample quantities are required for a fogging test?

The sample quantities required for a fogging test depend on the standard and the test method used. Here are the general guidelines:

1. standard DIN 75201 (type A and type B)

Type A (glass plate method):
A sample quantity of 10 cm² is typically required. The sample is placed on a heated plate in a sealed chamber and the volatiles released condense on a glass plate above.
Type B (aluminum foil method):
Similar to type A, a sample volume of approximately 10 cm² is used. However, the volatile substances condense on a cooled aluminum foil.

2. standard ISO 6452 (international standard)

Sample quantity:
Again, a sample size of about 10 cm² is typically required to evaluate the amount of volatiles released at elevated temperature.

3. other specific requirements

Depending on the specific requirements of the customer or OEM standards, sample quantities may vary. It is important to check the respective standards or test requirements carefully.

What is the difference between the reflectometric and gravimetric test method according to DIN 75201?

Method A - Reflectometric method:

Principle: This method measures the change in reflectivity on a glass plate on which volatile components from the material sample are deposited.
Procedure: A material sample is heated in a beaker while a glass plate above it is cooled to 21°C. The temperature difference causes the volatile components to condense on the glass plate. The reflectance index of the fogged glass plate is then measured to determine the amount of condensed material.
Application: This method is particularly suitable for materials for which an exact determination of the optical fog effect is required.

Method B - Gravimetric method:

Principle: This method measures the weight of condensed volatiles on an aluminum foil.
Procedure: The material sample is heated in a beaker while an aluminum foil disc is cooled to 21°C. After 16 hours, the amount of condensed material on the foil is weighed.
Application: This method is ideal for an accurate quantitative determination of the amount of condensed volatiles.

FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT CLIMATE AUDITS

How long does a typical solar simulation take? The duration of a sun simulation test in accordance with DIN 75220 can vary depending on the test cycle and specific requirements. Typically, these tests extend over several weeks or months.

Can the tests be customized? Yes, we offer flexible test plans that are tailored to your specific requirements. Please feel free to contact us.

Which components can imat test? We test a wide range of components, such as the instrument panel, parcel shelf, interior door trim. Carpeting etc.

Is imat accredited, certified and approved for solar simulation testing?

Yes, we carry out tests in accordance with national and international standards as well as OEM-specific requirements and are accredited for the most important tests. Find out more about our accreditations here.

Do you have any further questions? Our experts will be happy to answer your questions about various laboratory tests. Please feel free to contact us here. We look forward to processing your inquiry and helping you further.

Fogging

FOGGING TEST IN THE
AUTOMOBILE INTERIOR

Typical test methods

Sun simulation

AGEING OF VEHICLE COMPONENTS IN SOLAR SIMULATION SYSTEMS

Fogging test methods

Test methods / specifications

Are you looking for an exam? Standard? Specifications?

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