Weathering resistance testing apparatus and weathering resistance testing method

Abstract

To provide a weather resistance testing apparatus that can accelerate weather resistance testing while simultaneously improving safety and miniaturizing the equipment. [Solution] The weather resistance testing apparatus 1 comprises a pressurized container 2 capable of holding pressurized gas, a sample holding section 3 disposed inside the pressurized container 2 and capable of holding a sample S, an isolation section 20 inside the pressurized container 2 that defines an internal space V2 unaffected by the pressure inside the pressurized container 2 and has a light-transmitting member 21 that transmits light in at least a portion of it, a light source 4b disposed in the internal space V2 that irradiates light toward the sample S via the light-transmitting member 21, and an optical filter 4c disposed between the light-transmitting member 21 and the light source 4b in the internal space V2.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a weather resistance test apparatus and a weather resistance test method.

Background Art

[0002] When conducting a weather resistance test to determine how much organic and inorganic materials deteriorate due to light such as sunlight, heat, moisture such as rain, oxygen in the atmosphere, etc., it is best to conduct the test in the actual environment. However, in a test in the actual environment, it may take a long time to obtain test results. Therefore, a weather resistance acceleration test apparatus having a light source with a higher light intensity than sunlight is used to conduct a weather resistance test, and test results of the weather resistance of various materials are obtained early. As such weather resistance test apparatuses, a sunshine weatherometer (SWOM), a metal weatherometer (MW), a super UV (SUV), a xenon weatherometer, etc. are known.

[0003] A sunshine weatherometer includes a light source composed of a carbon arc, irradiates a sample with light including wavelengths from the ultraviolet region to the visible light region from this light source, and sprays water on the sample for a certain period of time by a water spray device, thereby realizing a weather resistance test in a short period. With this apparatus, it is possible to shorten the test period to some extent. Also, a metal weatherometer and a super UV include a metal halide lamp which is a more powerful light source than SWOM, irradiate a sample with high-intensity light from the ultraviolet region to the visible light region from this light source, and spray water on the sample for a certain period of time by a water spray device. With these apparatuses, since a light source with a high light intensity is used, a weather resistance test can be conducted in a shorter period than with a sunshine weatherometer.

[0004] In the weather resistance test apparatus described in Patent Document 1, in addition to using a light source with a high light intensity, the pressure and oxygen concentration in the apparatus container where the sample is placed are made higher than the atmospheric pressure, and an attempt is made to obtain test results equivalent to those in the actual environment early.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-176912 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] In the weathering test apparatus described in Patent Document 1, the light irradiation device, which has a light source and an optical filter, is located outside the pressurized container, thus preventing damage to the light irradiation device due to the high-pressure environment inside the pressurized container. This makes it possible to improve safety with this weathering test apparatus. However, in this weathering test apparatus, the distance between the sample and the light irradiation device becomes longer, which may increase the size of the apparatus.

[0007] Therefore, the purpose of this disclosure is to provide a weather resistance testing apparatus and a weather resistance testing method that can accelerate weather resistance testing while simultaneously improving safety and miniaturizing the apparatus. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] [1] A weathering test apparatus according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a pressurized container capable of holding a pressurized gas; a sample holding section disposed within the pressurized container and capable of holding a sample; an isolation section within the pressurized container that defines an internal space unaffected by the pressure inside the pressurized container and has at least a portion of a light-transmitting member; a light source disposed within the internal space that irradiates light toward the sample via the light-transmitting member; and an optical filter disposed between the light-transmitting member and the light source within the internal space.

[0009] In the above-described weather resistance testing apparatus, by using an optical filter placed between the light-transmitting member and the light source, it becomes easy to irradiate the sample with light of a desired wavelength, and as a result, it becomes easy to obtain test results that reproduce tests under actual environmental conditions. Furthermore, since the light source and optical filter are located in an internal space unaffected by the pressure inside the pressurized container, damage to the light source and optical filter due to the high-pressure environment inside the pressurized container can be prevented. Moreover, because the light source and optical filter are located in the internal space inside the pressurized container, the dimensions of the apparatus can be reduced compared to when the light source and optical filter are located outside the pressurized container. Therefore, the above-described weather resistance testing apparatus makes it possible to accelerate weather resistance testing while simultaneously improving safety and miniaturizing the apparatus.

[0010] [2] The weather resistance test apparatus described in [1] above may further include at least one of a pressure regulator for adjusting the pressure inside the pressurized container, a humidifier for humidifying the gas inside the pressurized container, and a liquid spray unit for spraying liquid onto the sample outside the isolation unit. In this configuration, the progression of deterioration can be accelerated by adjusting the pressure inside the pressurized container, humidifying the gas inside the pressurized container, and spraying liquid onto the sample. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent fluctuations in the pressure inside the pressurized container from affecting the light source and optical filter, or to prevent liquid generated inside the pressurized container from adhering to the light source and optical filter.

[0011] [3] In the weather resistance testing apparatus described in [1] or [2] above, the isolation section may have a holding section for holding a light-transmitting member, and the light-transmitting member may be configured to be detachable from the holding section. In this configuration, the light-transmitting member can be easily replaced.

[0012] [4] In the weather resistance test apparatus described in [3] above, the isolation section may further include a sealing member positioned between the holding section and the light-transmitting member. This configuration ensures airtightness between the holding section and the light-transmitting member.

[0013] [5] In the weather resistance testing apparatus described in [3] or [4] above, the isolation section is defined by a holding section with an opening and a light-transmitting member that closes the opening, and the light-transmitting member may be fixed to the holding section in a manner that allows it to be removed from the internal space side. This configuration prevents the inside of the pressurized container from affecting the replacement of the light-transmitting member.

[0014] [6] The weather resistance test apparatus described in [5] above may further include a housing that is placed in an internal space and houses a light source and an optical filter. This configuration can more reliably prevent physical shock from being applied to the light source and the optical filter.

[0015] [7] In the weather resistance test apparatus described in [3] or [4] above, the isolation section may define the internal space by a cylindrical light-transmitting member with the vertical direction as its axial direction and a pair of holding parts that hold the light-transmitting member from above and below. In this configuration, the pair of holding parts can stably hold the light-transmitting member. In addition, light from the light source can be emitted uniformly around the vertical direction.

[0016] [8] Another aspect of the present disclosure is a weather resistance test method for evaluating the weather resistance of a sample using any of the weather resistance test apparatuses described in [1] to [7] above, comprising the steps of: holding the sample in a sample holder; and irradiating the sample with light from a light source. [Effects of the Invention]

[0017] According to this disclosure, it is possible to provide a weather resistance testing apparatus and a weather resistance testing method that can accelerate weather resistance testing while simultaneously improving safety and miniaturizing the apparatus. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0018] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a weather resistance testing apparatus according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a top view showing an enlarged portion of the isolation section of the weather resistance testing apparatus shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III of Figure 2. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the isolation unit according to the modified example. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a top view showing the packing included in the isolation unit of Figure 4. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the configuration of the weather resistance test apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] Figures 7(a) and (b) are views showing modified examples of the isolation unit included in the weather resistance test apparatus of Figure 6.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0019] Hereinafter, a weather resistance test apparatus and a weather resistance test method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the description, the same reference numerals may be used for the same elements or elements having the same function, and redundant descriptions will be omitted.

[0020] [First Embodiment] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the configuration of the weather resistance test apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 1, the weather resistance test apparatus 1 includes a pressure vessel 2, a sample holding unit 3, an isolation unit 20, a light irradiation device 4, a gas introduction unit 5, a humidifier 6, a gas exhaust pipe 7, a pressure regulator 8, a water spray pipe (liquid spray unit) 9, a water flow regulator 10, a drain pipe 11, a drain valve 12, a temperature regulator 13, and a control unit 15.

[0021] In the weathering test apparatus 1, the sample S is held on the sample holding section 3 inside the pressurized container 2, and the pressure inside the pressurized container 2 is adjusted to a predetermined internal pressure by the pressure regulator 8 while introducing a gas such as oxygen or nitrogen from the gas introduction section 5. Then, under this pressurized state, light L from a light irradiation device 4 that simulates sunlight is irradiated onto the sample S, water is sprayed onto the sample S from the tip of a water spray tube 9, and the sample S is further heated by the temperature regulator 13. The temperature regulator 13 may cool the sample S if necessary. The gas such as oxygen introduced from the gas introduction section 5 may be humidified by a humidifier 6. The sample S is left in this environment for a predetermined period of time, and a weathering test is performed to determine how quickly the sample S deteriorates due to light such as sunlight, heat, moisture such as rain, oxygen in the atmosphere, etc.

[0022] The pressurized container 2 is a sealed container capable of holding pressurized gas. The pressurized container 2 defines an internal space V1 that houses the sample holding section 3. Various materials can be used for the pressurized container 2, as long as they have pressure resistance to the pressure inside the container. The material of the pressurized container 2 may be, for example, SUS, aluminum alloy, iron, titanium alloy, tungsten alloy, etc.

[0023] The pressurized container 2 is connected to a gas inlet 5, a gas exhaust pipe 7, a water spray pipe 9, and a drain pipe 11, with the ends of each pipe positioned inside the pressurized container 2. This allows a predetermined test gas (such as oxygen) to be introduced into the pressurized container 2 from the gas inlet 5, and unwanted gas to be discharged from the gas exhaust pipe 7. Additionally, water can be sprayed onto the sample S from the water spray pipe 9, and unwanted water can be discharged from the drain pipe 11.

[0024] The pressurized container 2 may have an opening for placing the sample S inside it. After the sample S is placed in the sample holding section 3, the opening may be airtightly sealed with a lid. In one example, the upper wall 2a that constitutes the upper part of the pressurized container 2 may function as a lid. Alternatively, an opening and a lid may be provided in a part of the side wall of the pressurized container 2.

[0025] The sample holder 3 holds the sample S to be tested for weather resistance. The sample holder 3 is positioned in the vertical direction D so as to face the light-transmitting member 21, which will be described later. One example of the sample holder 3 includes a plate-shaped member 3a and a support member 3b that supports the plate-shaped member 3a. The sample S is placed on the plate-shaped member 3a and held in place by being attached with aluminum tape or the like. In one example, the plate-shaped member 3a is positioned so that its upper surface is inclined with respect to the horizontal direction. The plate-shaped member 3a may also be aligned with the horizontal direction.

[0026] A temperature controller 13 may be built into the sample holding section 3. The temperature controller 13 is configured, for example, by incorporating a heater and a cooling channel, and adjusts the temperature of the sample S by heating or cooling the sample S by feeding back the value of a thermocouple. The temperature controller 13 makes it possible to perform a weather resistance test by adjusting the temperature of the sample S held in the sample holding section 3 to a predetermined temperature. The heating temperature by the temperature controller 13 is preferably above room temperature and below the decomposition temperature of the sample S. By heating below the decomposition temperature, it is possible to adjust the balance with deterioration due to light, oxygen, humidity, etc., without accelerating deterioration due to heat alone. Alternatively, a gas temperature adjustment mechanism may be provided to adjust the temperature of the gas introduced from the gas introduction section 5 instead of or in combination with the temperature controller 13, or a temperature controller may be provided in the pressurized container 2 to adjust the temperature of the container itself, or a combination of these may be used.

[0027] The isolation section 20 isolates the light source 4b and the optical filter 4c, which will be described later, within the pressurized container 2. The isolation section 20 defines an internal space V2 within the pressurized container 2 that is not affected by the pressure inside the pressurized container 2. The isolation section 20 each has a light-transmitting member 21 and a holding part 22, which are both located inside the pressurized container 2. In one example, the light-transmitting member 21 may be a quartz glass plate formed from quartz glass. The light-transmitting member 21 only needs to be made of a material that can transmit light L (especially ultraviolet light) irradiated from the light irradiation device 4, and may be made of a material other than quartz glass.

[0028] The holding section 22 is box-shaped and is airtightly fixed to the upper wall 2a of the pressurized container 2. The holding section 22 houses the light irradiation device 4. An opening 22a is formed in the holding section 22. The holding section 22 holds the light-transmitting member 21 with the light-transmitting member 21 covering the opening 22a. The light-transmitting member 21 is positioned between the light irradiation device 4 and the sample S (sample holding section 3) in the vertical direction D. In one example, the light-transmitting member 21 and the holding section 22 define an internal space V2 within the pressurized container 2. The internal space V2 is isolated from other spaces within the internal space V1 (space outside the isolation section 20). The internal space V2 is a sealed, enclosed space.

[0029] The light irradiation device 4 irradiates the sample S held in the sample holding section 3 with light L. An example of the light irradiation device 4 includes a housing 4a, a light source 4b, an optical filter 4c, a reflector 4d, a power cable 4e, and a fixing section 4f. The housing 4a is located in the internal space V2 and houses the light source 4b and the optical filter 4c. The housing 4a is fixed to the upper wall 2a of the pressurized container 2 by the fixing section 4f. The housing 4a is made of a metal material such as stainless steel.

[0030] The light source 4b is located inside the housing 4a. The light source 4b can be any light source that emits light L containing at least ultraviolet light. For example, carbon arcs used in weather resistance tests, high-pressure mercury lamps, xenon lamps, metal halide lamps, etc., can be used alone or in combination of two different types of light sources. The light source 4b may also be an LED light source or a laser light source. However, it is preferable to use xenon, which has the wavelength closest to that of sunlight, as the light source 4b. Furthermore, it is preferable that the light emitted from the light source 4b includes light in the wavelength range of 290 nm to 450 nm, and preferably includes at least a portion of the light in the wavelength range of 290 nm to 450 nm. It is preferable that the spectral shape of the light emitted from the light source 4b is close to that of sunlight.

[0031] The optical filter 4c is located inside the housing 4a and is positioned between the light source 4b and the light-transmitting member 21 in the vertical direction D. In one example, the optical filter 4c may be positioned between the light source 4b and an opening (not shown) formed in the housing 4a. This opening is for allowing light from the light source 4b to be emitted outside the housing 4a. The optical filter 4c cuts out predetermined wavelength components from the light emitted from the light source 4b. For example, the optical filter 4c may cut out light with wavelengths shorter than 290 nm. In addition, although light with wavelengths longer than 450 nm emitted from the light source 4b does not directly cause degradation of the sample S, light with wavelengths in the infrared region in particular may be left in place as it has an effect such as heating the sample S. On the other hand, since the temperature of the sample S is controlled by the temperature controller 13 described above, infrared light may be cut out by the optical filter 4c in order to eliminate the effect of heating by light.

[0032] The reflector 4d is positioned within the housing 4a on the side opposite to the optical filter 4c relative to the light source 4b. Light emitted from the light source 4b on the side opposite to the optical filter 4c is reflected by the reflector 4d and proceeds to the optical filter 4c. This allows the light from the light source 4b to be efficiently directed to the optical filter 4c. As shown in the example in Figure 1, multiple reflectors 4d may be provided so as to surround the upper half of the light source 4b.

[0033] The power cable 4e is electrically connected to the light source 4b and supplies power to the light source 4b. In one example, the power cable 4e is routed out to the outside of the pressurized container 2 through an opening formed in the upper wall 2a of the pressurized container 2.

[0034] The portion of the upper wall 2a along the inner circumference of the holding portion 22 may constitute a removable cover. The fixing portion 4f of the housing 4a may be fixed to this cover. In this case, the light source 4b can be removed from inside the pressurized container 2 by removing the cover.

[0035] The light irradiation device 4 may include lenses, etc., for irradiating the sample S with light from the light source 4b as parallel light. The amount of light L irradiated from the light irradiation device 4 only needs to be higher than that of sunlight. For example, the amount of light irradiated from the light source 4b with a wavelength of 365 nm is 15 mW / cm². 2 More than 100mW / cm 2 The following may apply. Note that the "light intensity" referred to here is the value measured with a device that measures the light intensity at a wavelength of 365 nm (for example, the UIT-250 UVD-S365 photodetector manufactured by Ushio Inc.), and is a wavelength distribution with 365 nm as the absolute value calibration wavelength, and is the value of detecting the light intensity in the sensitivity wavelength range of 310 nm to 390 nm.

[0036] The gas introduction unit 5 is a device for introducing gases, including oxygen gas, nitrogen gas (inert gas), and air, into the pressurized container 2. The gas introduction unit 5 includes a gas introduction pipe 5a, an oxygen flow regulator 5b, a nitrogen flow regulator 5c, and an air flow regulator 5d. Oxygen gas, nitrogen gas, and air supplied from the outside are supplied to the pressurized container 2 through the gas introduction pipe 5a. In one example of the gas introduction unit 5, oxygen gas supplied from the oxygen flow regulator 5b, nitrogen gas supplied from the nitrogen flow regulator 5c, and air supplied from the air flow regulator 5d are introduced into the pressurized container 2 through the same gas introduction pipe 5a. The flow rates of the supplied gases are adjusted by the oxygen flow regulator 5b, nitrogen flow regulator 5c, and air flow regulator 5d. The gas introduction unit 5 adjusts the oxygen gas concentration in the pressurized container 2 between 0% and 100%.

[0037] The humidifier 6 is connected, for example, to the gas inlet pipe 5a and is a device that humidifies the gas introduced by the gas inlet section 5 by bubbling the water inside the humidifier 6. The humidifier 6 humidifies the gas inside the pressurized container 2. The humidity inside the pressurized container 2 is controlled by the humidifier 6 to a predetermined range. Alternatively, the humidification by the humidifier 6 may be controlled by the control unit 15 or the like based on humidity information from a hygrometer 33 installed inside the pressurized container 2. The humidifier 6 may also spray a mist of liquid into the pressurized container 2 from a route other than the gas inlet pipe 5a.

[0038] The gas exhaust pipe 7 is a pipe for discharging gas from the pressurized container 2. A pressure regulator 8 is attached to the gas exhaust pipe 7, and the pressure regulator 8 maintains the pressure inside the pressurized container 2 at a set pressure. In other words, the pressure regulator 8 adjusts the pressure inside the pressurized container 2. When the pressure regulator 8 detects that the pressure inside the pressurized container 2 has exceeded the set pressure, it opens a valve provided on the gas exhaust pipe 7 and adjusts the pressure to reach the set pressure. In one example, a pressure gauge (not shown) may be installed inside the pressurized container 2. For example, the pressure regulator 8 may be controlled by the control unit 15 based on the value detected by the pressure gauge.

[0039] The water spray tube 9 is a component for spraying water onto the sample S placed inside the pressurized container 2. The water spray tube 9 sprays water supplied from outside the pressurized container 2 onto the sample S inside the pressurized container 2 after adjusting the flow rate using the water flow rate regulator 10. The water spray tube 9 sprays water onto the sample S outside the isolation section 20. The water flow rate regulator 10 is a device that adjusts the amount of water sprayed onto the sample S from the water spray tube 9, and the water volume is set according to the required amount. A spray nozzle is attached to the tip of the water spray tube 9 inside the pressurized container 2, and this spray nozzle allows water to be sprayed (in a spray, mist, or shower) over the entire sample S. The force of the water sprayed from this spray nozzle can also be adjusted by adjusting the water flow rate regulator 10. The spraying device using the water spray tube 9 and water flow rate regulator 10 is a device that simulates rain in a real environment, and the water sprayed may be pure water, tap water, water adjusted to simulate acid rain, water containing metal ions, hydrogen peroxide, etc. Note that liquids other than water may also be sprayed onto the sample S.

[0040] The drain pipe 11 is a component for discharging water sprayed from the water spray pipe 9 inside the pressurized container 2 to the outside of the pressurized container 2. A drain valve 12 is attached to the drain pipe 11, and by operating the drain valve, excess water is discharged. The drain valve 12 is normally closed during the weathering test and is controlled to maintain the pressure and atmosphere (oxygen gas concentration, etc.) inside the pressurized container 2. When predetermined conditions are met, such as by a water level sensor (not shown) or time, the drain valve 12 is opened by the control unit 15, thereby discharging excess water from inside the pressurized container 2 to the outside of the container. When the conditions determined by the water level sensor are resolved or a predetermined time has elapsed, the drain valve 12 is closed again by the control unit 15. Note that, as shown in the example in Figure 1, multiple drain valves 12 may be provided. In this case, a drain container may be provided between two drain valves 12.

[0041] The control unit 15 is a device that controls the overall operation of the weather resistance testing apparatus 1, and is composed of, for example, a computer equipped with a CPU. The control unit 15 is electrically connected to the light irradiation device 4, gas introduction unit 5, humidifier 6, pressure regulator 8, water flow regulator 10, drain valve 12, and temperature regulator 13 via wiring, and controls the operation of each device.

[0042] The weather resistance test apparatus 1 further comprises a pressure gauge 31, an oxygen concentration meter 32, a hygrometer 33, a container thermometer 34, and a sample thermometer 35. The pressure gauge 31 measures the pressure inside the pressurized container 2. The oxygen concentration meter 32 measures the oxygen concentration of the gas inside the pressurized container 2. The hygrometer 33 measures the humidity inside the pressurized container 2. The container thermometer 34 measures the temperature inside the pressurized container 2. The sample thermometer 35 is mounted on a plate-shaped member 3a and measures the temperature of the sample S.

[0043] The details of the isolation section 20 will be described with reference to Figures 2 and 3. Figure 2 is an enlarged top view showing a part of the isolation section of the weather resistance testing apparatus in Figure 1. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view along line III-III in Figure 2. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the isolation section 20 further includes O-rings (sealing members) 23 and 24. The holding section 22 also includes a housing 221 and a frame 222. The housing 221 and the frame 222 are each made of a metal material such as stainless steel.

[0044] The housing 221 houses the light irradiation device 4 and is hermetically fixed to the upper wall 2a of the pressurized container 2. The housing 221 has a lower wall 221a in which the opening 22a of the aforementioned holding portion 22 is formed. The lower wall 221a is the wall portion of the housing 221 located on the side of the sample holding portion 3. The light-transmitting member 21 closes the opening 22a on the inside of the housing 221. The outer edge of the light-transmitting member 21 faces the lower wall 221a. A groove 221b is formed in the lower wall 221a, opening on one side in the vertical direction D (the upper side in Figure 3). In one example, the groove 221b is formed in a rectangular ring shape that surrounds the outer edge of the opening 22a when viewed from the vertical direction D.

[0045] The frame 222 is a frame-shaped member that runs along the outer edge of the opening 22a. The frame 222 is positioned on the lower wall 221a inside the housing 221 and, together with the lower wall 221a, sandwiches the light-transmitting member 21 along the vertical direction D. The frame 222 has a recess 222a that opens to the other side in the vertical direction D (the lower side in Figure 3). The recess 222a is formed along the entire circumference of the opening 22a. The cross-sectional shape of the frame 222 is, for example, L-shaped. The outer edge of the light-transmitting member 21 is positioned in the recess 222a. A groove 222b is formed on the inner surface of the recess 222a that opens to the other side in the vertical direction D. In one example, the groove 222b is formed in a rectangular ring shape that surrounds the outer edge of the opening 22a when viewed from the vertical direction D. The groove 222b is formed opposite the groove 221b, with the light-transmitting member 21 in between.

[0046] O-ring 23 is positioned between the lower wall 221a and the light-transmitting member 21, and O-ring 24 is positioned between the frame 222 and the light-transmitting member 21. In other words, O-rings 23 and 24 are positioned between the light-transmitting member 21 and the holding part 22. O-ring 23 is positioned around the entire circumference of the groove 221b of the lower wall 221a. O-ring 24 is positioned around the entire circumference of the groove 222b of the frame 222. O-rings 23 and 24 face each other with the light-transmitting member 21 in between.

[0047] The lower wall 221a of the housing 221 and the frame 222 are fixed to each other by multiple screws N, with the light-transmitting member 21 sandwiched between them along the vertical direction D. This holds the light-transmitting member 21 in the holding part 22. At this time, the O-ring 24 contacts the light-transmitting member 21 from one side in the vertical direction D (the upper side in Figure 3), and the O-ring 23 contacts the light-transmitting member 21 from the other side in the vertical direction D (the lower side in Figure 3). This ensures airtightness between the light-transmitting member 21 and the holding part 22.

[0048] In one example, the light-transmitting member 21 can be removed from the holding part 22 by unscrewing the screw N and releasing the fixation between the lower wall 221a of the housing 221 and the frame 222. In other words, the light-transmitting member 21 is configured to be detachable from the holding part 22. When removing the light-transmitting member 21 from the holding part 22, since the light-transmitting member 21 and the frame 222 are located inside the housing 221, the light-transmitting member 21 is removed towards the internal space V2 side (inside the housing 221).

[0049] Here, we will describe a weather resistance test method using the weather resistance test apparatus 1 with the configuration described above. In the weather resistance test method, first, a sample S to be used for the weather resistance test is prepared. There may be one sample S or multiple samples S. Also, the sample S is, for example, a decorative sheet. The sample S may be a component made of various inorganic or organic materials, and is not particularly limited. Once such a sample S is prepared, the lid (for example, the upper wall 2a) of the pressurized container 2 is removed and the sample S is held in place by attaching it to the sample holding part 3. After that, the lid is airtightly attached to the pressurized container 2 and fixed with bolts or the like. This makes the pressurized container 2 containing the sample S airtight.

[0050] Next, the control unit 15 sets the pressure using the pressure regulator 8 and introduces a predetermined flow rate of gas (oxygen gas or nitrogen gas) into the pressurized container 2 from the gas introduction unit 5. Furthermore, the water flow rate regulator 10, also controlled by the control unit 15, adjusts the water flow rate, which is then supplied to the sample S from the nozzle of the water spray pipe 9 continuously or at predetermined intervals. Finally, the temperature regulator 13 adjusts the temperature under the control of the control unit 15, maintaining the sample S at a predetermined temperature (e.g., 80°C). In this state, the weather resistance test apparatus 1 irradiates the sample S with predetermined light L from the light irradiation device 4 via the optical filter 4c and the light-transmitting member 21.

[0051] Next, the degradation state of sample S is tested by continuously maintaining the conditions of light irradiation, pressurization, temperature control, and water supply. Such tests may be carried out continuously for, for example, 3 to 6 months, or for 6 months or more, or even for 1 year or more. Alternatively, light irradiation, water spraying, etc., may be repeated at predetermined intervals while maintaining predetermined pressurization and temperature control. Such test conditions can be appropriately selected to be similar to those of tests in a real environment.

[0052] As described above, one aspect of this disclosure provides a weather resistance testing apparatus 1. The weather resistance testing apparatus 1 comprises a pressurized container 2 capable of holding a pressurized gas, a sample holding section 3 disposed inside the pressurized container 2 and capable of holding a sample S, an isolation section 20 located inside the pressurized container 2 that defines an internal space V2 unaffected by the pressure inside the pressurized container 2 and has a light-transmitting member 21 that transmits light in at least a portion of it, a light source 4b disposed in the internal space V2 that irradiates light toward the sample S via the light-transmitting member 21, and an optical filter 4c disposed in the internal space V2 between the light-transmitting member 21 and the light source 4b.

[0053] By using an optical filter 4c positioned between the light-transmitting member 21 and the light source 4b, it becomes easy to irradiate the sample with light of a desired wavelength, and as a result, it becomes easy to obtain test results that reproduce tests under actual environmental conditions. Furthermore, since the light source 4b and the optical filter 4c are positioned in an internal space V2 that is not affected by the pressure inside the pressurized container 2, damage to the light source 4b and the optical filter 4c due to the high-pressure environment inside the pressurized container 2 can be prevented. Moreover, because the light source 4b and the optical filter 4c are positioned in the internal space V2 inside the pressurized container 2, the dimensions of the apparatus can be reduced compared to when the light source 4b and the optical filter 4c are positioned outside the pressurized container 2. Therefore, the weather resistance test apparatus 1 described above can accelerate weather resistance testing while simultaneously improving safety and miniaturizing the apparatus.

[0054] The weather resistance test apparatus 1 described above includes a pressure regulator 8 for adjusting the pressure inside the pressurized container 2, a humidifier 6 for humidifying the gas inside the pressurized container 2, and a water spray pipe 9 for spraying water onto the sample S outside the isolation section 20. With this configuration, the progression of deterioration can be accelerated by adjusting the pressure inside the pressurized container 2, humidifying the gas inside the pressurized container 2, and spraying water onto the sample S. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent fluctuations in the pressure inside the pressurized container 2 from affecting the light source 4b and the optical filter 4c, or to prevent water generated inside the pressurized container 2 from adhering to the light source 4b and the optical filter 4c.

[0055] In the weather resistance testing apparatus 1 described above, the isolation section 20 has a holding section 22 for holding the light-transmitting member 21, and the light-transmitting member 21 is configured to be detachably attached to the holding section 22. With this configuration, the light-transmitting member 21 can be easily replaced.

[0056] In the weather resistance testing apparatus 1 described above, the isolation section 20 has O-rings 23 and 24 positioned between the holding section 22 and the light-transmitting member 21. This configuration ensures airtightness between the holding section 22 and the light-transmitting member 21.

[0057] In the weather resistance testing apparatus 1 described above, the isolation section 20 defines an internal space V2 by a holding section 22 having an opening 22a and a light-transmitting member 21 that closes the opening 22a. The light-transmitting member 21 may be fixed to the holding section 22 in a manner that allows it to be removed from the internal space V2 side. This configuration prevents the inside of the pressurized container 2 from affecting the replacement of the light-transmitting member 21. For example, even if water droplets adhere to the inside of the pressurized container 2 due to spraying from the water spray pipe 9, the replacement of the light-transmitting member 21 can be easily carried out.

[0058] The weather resistance testing apparatus 1 described above includes a housing 4a that is placed in an internal space V2 and houses a light source 4b and an optical filter 4c. This configuration makes it possible to more reliably prevent physical shock from being applied to the light source 4b and the optical filter 4c.

[0059] [Modified version of the first embodiment] A modified example of the isolation section 20 will be described with reference to Figures 4 and 5. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the isolation section according to the modified example. Figure 5 is a top view showing the packing provided in the isolation section of Figure 4. The isolation section 20A shown in Figure 4 differs from the isolation section 20 mainly in that it has a packing (sealing member) 25 instead of O-rings 23 and 24.

[0060] The packing 25 is a rectangular annular member that runs along the outer edge of the opening 22a. The packing 25 is positioned between the lower wall 221a of the housing 221 and the light-transmitting member 21. The light-transmitting member 21 and the packing 25 are sandwiched together along the vertical direction D by the lower wall 221a of the housing 221 and the frame 222.

[0061] The packing 25 has multiple through holes 25a through which multiple screws N are inserted. The lower wall 221a of the housing 221 and the frame 222 are fixed to each other by multiple screws N, with the light-transmitting member 21 and the packing 25 sandwiched along the vertical direction D. At this time, the shafts of the screws N are inserted through the through holes 25a.

[0062] Even with the weather resistance testing apparatus 1 equipped with the isolation section 20A described above, the same effects and advantages as in the first embodiment are achieved.

[0063] [Second Embodiment] Referring to Figure 6, the weather resistance test apparatus 101 according to the second embodiment will be described. Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the weather resistance test apparatus according to the second embodiment. The weather resistance test apparatus 101 differs from the weather resistance test apparatus 1 mainly in that it has a sample holding section 30 instead of a sample holding section 3, a light irradiation device 40 instead of a light irradiation device 4, an isolation section 50 instead of an isolation section 20, and a water spray device (liquid spray section) 60 instead of a water spray pipe 9.

[0064] The light irradiation device 40 includes a light source 40b, an optical filter 40c, and a power cable 40e. The light source 40b is formed in a columnar shape extending along the vertical direction D. In one example, the light source 40b irradiates light around its central axis. The optical filter 40c is formed in a cylindrical shape with the vertical direction D as its axial direction and surrounds the light source 40b. The optical filter 40c is formed, for example, in a cylindrical shape. The power cable 40e is electrically connected to the light source 40b and supplies power to the light source 40b.

[0065] The isolation section 50 includes a light-transmitting member 51, a pair of holding parts 52, and an O-ring (sealing member) 53. The light-transmitting member 51 is formed in a cylindrical shape with the vertical direction D as its axial direction within the pressurized container 2, and surrounds the optical filter 40c. In one example, the light-transmitting member 51 and the pair of holding parts 52 define an internal space V2 within the pressurized container 2.

[0066] The pair of holding parts 52 hold the light-transmitting member 51 from above and below. The pair of holding parts 52 are fixed to the upper wall 2a and the lower wall 2b of the pressurized container 2, respectively. Each of the pair of holding parts 52 has a fixing member 521 and a nut member 522 fixed to the upper wall 2a or the lower wall 2b. The fixing member 521 and the nut member 522 are each made of a metal material such as stainless steel.

[0067] The fixing member 521 is formed in a columnar shape extending along the vertical direction D from the upper wall 2a or the lower wall 2b. The fixing member 521 is formed, for example, in a cylindrical shape. A male threaded portion 521a is formed on the outer surface of the fixing member 521, which is screwed into the female threaded portion 522a of the nut member 522. The fixing member 521 has a recess 521b that opens on one or the other side in the vertical direction D. The shape of the recess 521b when viewed from the vertical direction D is, for example, circular. The ends of the light source 40b, the optical filter 40c, and the light transmitting member 51 are arranged inside the recess 521b. A groove 521c is formed around the entire circumference of the inner surface of the recess 521b. The O-ring 53 is positioned in the groove 521c so as to contact the outer surface of the light transmitting member 51.

[0068] A female threaded portion 522a is formed on the inner surface of the nut member 522, which is screwed onto the male threaded portion 521a of the fixing member 521. The fixing member 521 is configured to hold the light-transmitting member 51 when the nut member 522 is fastened to the fixing member 521. The fixing member 521 may be formed in a tapered shape. For example, the fixing member 521 may be formed such that its width (e.g., diameter) in the direction perpendicular to the vertical direction D decreases towards the tip. In this case, as the nut member 522 is screwed onto the fixing member 521, the inner surface of the recess 521b may press against the outer surface of the light-transmitting member 51.

[0069] The sample holding section 30 is a member capable of holding multiple samples S and is configured to be rotatable around the light irradiation device 40 (light source 4b). In other words, in the weather resistance test apparatus 101, multiple samples S can be arranged concentrically. The sample holding section 30 may also be configured in which multiple planar sections are connected to each other so that multiple samples S can be held.

[0070] The water spray device 60 sprays water onto the sample S outside the isolation unit 50. The water spray device 60 may be installed in close proximity to the light irradiation device 40 and sprays a predetermined amount of water onto the sample S which rotates around the light source 40b by the sample holding unit 30. The water spray device 60 has a plurality of spraying units 60a that spray water onto the sample S. Each of the plurality of spraying units 60a corresponds to a sample S. The spraying units 60a only need to be able to spray water onto the sample S, for example, a spray nozzle. The water spray device 60 may have a tank for storing the water to be sprayed.

[0071] In the weather resistance test apparatus 101, the light-transmitting member 51 may be held from above and below by a pair of holding parts 52 outside the pressurized container 2, and then the light-transmitting member 51 and the pair of holding parts 52 may be placed inside the pressurized container 2 through an opening (not shown) provided in the pressurized container 2. This opening may be airtightly sealed with a lid.

[0072] Even with the weather resistance testing apparatus 101 described above, the same effects and advantages as in the first embodiment are achieved. In the weather resistance testing apparatus 101, the isolation section 50 defines the internal space V2 by a cylindrical light-transmitting member 51 with the vertical direction D as its axis, and a pair of holding parts 52 that hold the light-transmitting member 51 from above and below. In this configuration, the pair of holding parts 52 can stably hold the light-transmitting member 51. In addition, light from the light source 40b can be emitted uniformly around the vertical direction D.

[0073] [Modified version of the second embodiment] A modified example of the isolation section 50 will be described with reference to Figures 7(a) and 7(b). Figures 7(a) and 7(b) show modified examples of the isolation section 50 provided in the weather resistance testing apparatus 101 of Figure 6. In isolation section 50A shown in Figure 7(a) and isolation section 50B shown in Figure 7(b), the position of the O-ring 53 differs from the position of the O-ring 53 in isolation section 50 shown in Figure 6.

[0074] As shown in Figure 7(a), in the isolation portion 50A, the groove 521c opens to the inside of the recess 521b and also opens to the other side in the vertical direction D (the lower side in Figure 7(a)). The O-ring 53 is positioned in the groove 521c so as to contact the outer surface of the light-transmitting member 51. In one example, with the nut member 522 fastened to the fixing member 521, the O-ring 53 may be sandwiched along the vertical direction D between the inner surface 522b of the nut member 522 and the inner surface of the groove 521c.

[0075] As shown in Figure 7(b), no groove 521c is formed in the isolation portion 50B. The O-ring 53 is positioned between the top surface 521d of the fixing member 521 and the inner surface 522b of the nut member 522. In one example, with the nut member 522 fastened to the fixing member 521, the O-ring 53 may be sandwiched between the top surface 521d of the fixing member 521 and the inner surface 522b of the nut member 522 along the vertical direction D.

[0076] Although the weather resistance testing apparatus according to this embodiment has been described above, the weather resistance testing apparatus according to this disclosure is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications can be applied. [Explanation of symbols]

[0077] 1,101...Weathering test apparatus, 2...Pressurized container, 3,30...Sample holding section, 4a,221...Housing, 4b,40b...Light source, 4c,40c...Optical filter, 6...Humidifier, 8...Pressure regulator, 9...Water spray tube (liquid spray section), 20,20A,50,50A,50B...Isolation section, 21,51...Light transmitting member, 22,52...Holding section, 22a...Opening, 23,24,53...O-ring (sealing member), 25...Packing (sealing member), 60...Water spray device (liquid spray section), D...Vertical direction, L...Light, S...Sample, V2...Internal space.

Claims

1. A pressurized container capable of holding pressurized gas, A sample holding section, which is disposed within the pressurized container and capable of holding a sample, Within the pressurized container, an isolation section is provided which defines an internal space unaffected by the pressure inside the pressurized container and which has at least a portion of a light-transmitting member that transmits light. A light source is arranged in the internal space and irradiates light toward the sample via the light-transmitting member, A weather resistance testing apparatus comprising an optical filter disposed between the light-transmitting member and the light source in the aforementioned internal space.

2. The weather resistance testing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising at least one of the following: a pressure regulator for adjusting the pressure in the pressurized container; a humidifier for humidifying the gas in the pressurized container; and a liquid spray unit for spraying liquid onto the sample outside the isolation unit.

3. The isolation portion has a holding portion for holding the light-transmitting member, The weather resistance testing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the light-transmitting member is configured to be detachably attached to the holding portion.

4. The weather resistance testing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the isolation portion further comprises a sealing member disposed between the holding portion and the light-transmitting member.

5. The isolation portion is defined by the holding portion having an opening and the light-transmitting member that closes the opening, The weather resistance testing apparatus according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the light-transmitting member is fixed to the holding portion in a manner that allows it to be removed from the internal space side.

6. The weather resistance testing apparatus according to claim 5, further comprising a housing arranged in the internal space and housing the light source and the optical filter.

7. The weather resistance testing apparatus according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the isolation portion defines the internal space by a cylindrical light-transmitting member with its vertical direction as its axial direction, and a pair of holding portions that hold the light-transmitting member from above and below.

8. A weather resistance test method for evaluating the weather resistance of a sample using the weather resistance test apparatus described in claim 1, The step of holding the sample in the sample holding section, A weather resistance test method comprising the step of irradiating a sample with light from the aforementioned light source.

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