Skip to content
Vehicle interior-car-interior

Fogging

Determination of the fogging behavior of materials used in vehicle interiors

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.
imat-uve environmental simulation solar simulation SoSi climate chamber 46sqm classic car

LONG-TERM EXPOSURE TESTS

Analysis of material changes due to outdoor weathering and long-term exposure tests

LONG-TERM EXPOSURE TO ENSURE MATERIAL RELIABILITY

As a testing service provider in the automotive sector, we are faced with the challenge of testing the durability and reliability of vehicle materials .

An important part of our work here is the analysis of material changes caused by outdoor weathering and long-term exposure tests in the laboratory. These tests help to ensure that the materials can withstand extreme outdoor conditions over long periods of time.

 

Importance of outdoor weathering

Outdoor weathering refers to the exposure of materials to natural environmental influences such as UV radiation, rain, temperature fluctuations and other atmospheric conditions. These influences can change the physical and chemical properties of the materials, which can have a negative impact on the functionality and appearance of vehicle components.

 

Long-term exposure test

Long-term exposure tests simulate these environmental conditions over a defined period of time. The tests are often carried out outdoors or in special climate chambers that mimic the various influencing factors in a controlled manner. The aim is to document the material changes and evaluate their effects on the performance and service life of the components.

Selina_Rudat_quer_mit_Logo_01

Specific norms and standards that are taken into account:

  • ISO 4892
  • SAE J1960
  • ASTM G155

Fogging test methods

  • DIN 75201-A (reflectrometric)
  • DIN 75201-B (gravimetric)
  • PV 3015 (Volkswagen)
  • GMW 3235-A (General Motors Worldwide)
  • PSA D45 1727
  • and much more.
Search Suggestions
Frequently requested tests

CONTACT OUR EXPERTS

Description. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consetetur sadipscing elitr, sed diam nonumy eirmod tempor invidunt ut labore et

  • Tab Title
Marco-Theunissen_600x800px_240320
NAME Job Title
Christoph_Bücken_600x800px
NAME Job Title
Ronald_Althoff_cross_2_1
NAME Job Title
saglamme_quer_07_600x800px_240320
NAME Job Title
Simon_Zander_cross_2_1
NAME Job Title
Nicole_Nienhaus_600x800px
NAME Job Title
  • ISO 4892
  • SAE J1960
  • ASTM G155

ISO 4892

 

This standard describes the test methods for the behavior of materials to artificial irradiation, in particular UV light. It is essential for assessing the ageing resistance of plastics and coatings.

SAE J1960

This standard specifies the requirements for testing exterior materials and their resistance to weathering. It is particularly relevant for the automotive industry.

ASTM G155

This is a method for simulating UV radiation and its effects on materials. These tests are important for assessing long-term durability.
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.
Do you have further questions?

CONTACT US

FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT LONG-TERM EXPOSURE TESTS

What test methods are available?

The analysis of material changes includes various tests, such as mechanical tests, color and gloss measurements and chemical analyses. Changes such as cracking, discoloration or material degradation can indicate long-term exposure and must be documented in order to assess the integrity of the components.

What approvals and certifications does imat have in the field of environmental simulation?

IMAT-UVE IS ACCREDITED IN ACCORDANCE WITH DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025 AND ALSO HAS A
FLEXIBLE ACCREDITATION FOR THE FIELD OF ENVIRONMENTAL SIMULATION.

  • Approval from Porsche for the DIN 75220 sun simulation method as part of the
    Porsche specification PTL 8140 (for instrument panels, center consoles, complete vehicles)
  • BMW approval for the BMW PR 306.4 sun simulation method on interior equipment
  • Further sun simulation tests, climate change and constant climate tests according to the requirements of other car manufacturers, as well as infrared tests on components according to Ford, GM/Opel, KIA/Hyundai specifications
  • imat-uve is a member of the GUS/Society for Environmental Simulation
  • GM/Opel approval for material testing with a focus on textiles and carpets
  • Reference laboratory for upholstery and carpet testing
  • Member of the VDA textile working group
  • Emission testing according to VDA 278 for BMW, Daimler and GM/Opel, Porsche and Suzuki
  • Member of various DIN committees
  • OEM-certified test site in South Africa
  • Our customers: Automotive manufacturers, system suppliers, parts suppliers, semi-finished product suppliers
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.