Weathering resistance testing apparatus and weathering resistance testing method

Abstract

A weather resistance testing device that can improve safety while facilitating weather resistance testing is provided. [Solution] A weather resistance test apparatus 1 includes a pressurized container 2, a sample holder 3, and a light irradiation device 4 having a light source 4a. The pressurized container 2 has a quartz glass plate 16 that is capable of transmitting light L. The sample holder 3 is disposed inside the pressurized container 2 and is capable of holding a sample S. In this weather resistance test apparatus 1, the light irradiation device 4 is disposed outside the pressurized container 2 and irradiates light L from the light source 4a onto the sample S via the quartz glass plate 16.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a weather resistance testing apparatus and a weather resistance testing method. [Background technology]

[0002] When conducting weather resistance tests to determine how quickly organic and inorganic materials degrade due to sunlight, heat, rain, oxygen in the atmosphere, etc., it is best to conduct the tests in real-world conditions. However, testing in real-world conditions can take a long time to obtain test results. Therefore, weather resistance tests are being conducted using accelerated weathering testing equipment with light sources that have a higher light intensity than sunlight, in order to obtain weather resistance test results for various materials at an earlier stage. Known weather resistance testing equipment includes sunshine weatherometers (SWOM), metal weatherometers (MW), super UV (SUV), and xenon weatherometers (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2).

[0003] The Sunshine Weatherometer is a device that uses a carbon arc light source to irradiate a sample with light containing wavelengths from the ultraviolet to the visible light range, and simultaneously sprays water onto the sample for a set period of time using a water spray device, thereby enabling weather resistance testing in a short period of time. This device can shorten the testing period to a certain extent. On the other hand, the Metal Weatherometer and Super UV are devices that use a metal halide lamp, which is a more powerful light source than the SWOM, to irradiate a sample with high-intensity light from the ultraviolet to the visible light range, and simultaneously spray water onto the sample for a set period of time using a water spray device. Because these devices use high-intensity light sources, they can perform weather resistance testing in a shorter period of time than the Sunshine Weatherometer. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 1-21891 [Patent Document 2] Special Publication No. 1-28897 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] In the weathering test apparatus described in Patent Documents 1 and 2, in order to accelerate weathering tests, a high-intensity light source is used, and the air pressure (e.g., oxygen partial pressure) inside the apparatus container where the sample is placed is set higher than atmospheric pressure. In this case, if the protective device that protects the light source lamp installed inside the test apparatus is damaged by the high-pressure environment, etc., water from the water spray device may adhere to the light source lamp, causing a short circuit, or water adhering to the high-temperature part of the light source lamp may evaporate, causing a rapid increase in the air pressure inside the container. While these issues can be prevented to some extent by improving the pressure resistance of the container or increasing the damage resistance of the protective device, there is a need for the development of a weathering test apparatus that is safer while accelerating weathering tests.

[0006] The present invention aims to solve the above-mentioned problems and to provide a weather resistance testing apparatus and a weather resistance testing method that can improve safety while accelerating weather resistance testing. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] (1) In one aspect, the present invention relates to a weather resistance testing apparatus comprising a pressurized container, a sample holding section, and a light irradiation device having a light source. The pressurized container has a light-transmitting section that can transmit light. The sample holding section is located inside the pressurized container and is capable of holding a sample. In this weather resistance testing apparatus, the light irradiation device is located outside the pressurized container and irradiates the sample with light from a light source through the light-transmitting section.

[0008] In this weathering test apparatus (1), a light irradiation device with a light source is positioned outside the pressurized container, and the device is configured to irradiate the sample inside the pressurized container with light from outside. In this case, because the light irradiation device is outside the pressurized container, it is not susceptible to damage from the high-pressure atmosphere, and even if it is damaged for some reason, it does not cause a sudden increase in the pressure inside the pressurized container, thus reducing the impact on the pressurized container. As a result, this weathering test apparatus makes it possible to accelerate weathering tests while improving safety by using a pressurized container. Furthermore, because the light irradiation device is positioned outside the pressurized container in this weathering test apparatus, it is not necessary to make the pressurized container, which requires high safety standards, unnecessarily large, and a smaller pressurized container can be used. Safety can be improved in this respect as well. Furthermore, by placing the light irradiation device outside the pressurized container, it becomes easier to perform optical design of the light irradiation device, such as increasing the amount of light irradiated, making it easier to select the wavelength of light irradiated, or reducing the uniformity of the irradiation of the sample. This makes it possible to bring the test closer to actual environmental conditions (especially in terms of optics), or to accelerate the test while maintaining conditions close to those of an actual environment, thereby accelerating weather resistance testing while reproducing test results under actual environmental conditions.

[0009] (2) In the weather resistance test apparatus (1) described above, it is preferable that the light irradiation device has an optical system that makes the light from the light source into parallel light. In this case, the light irradiated onto the sample becomes more uniform, preventing strong light from being irradiated onto a part of the sample, and enabling stable weather resistance testing. Furthermore, when testing multiple samples simultaneously, since the irradiated light is parallel light, there is no unevenness in the illuminance of the light irradiated onto each sample, so it is not necessary to rearrange the samples to equalize the illuminance during the weather resistance test (for example, during 3 to 6 months). This makes it possible to obtain more accurate weather resistance test results with less work. In this case, the optical system may be configured to include at least one collimating lens. In this weather resistance test apparatus, as described above, the light irradiation device is located outside the pressurized container, and there are not many restrictions on the size of the optical system for generating parallel light, so it is possible to use a more optimal optical system.

[0010] (3) In the weather resistance test apparatus (1) or (2) described above, the light source is 15 mW / cm 2 More than 60mW / cm 2 A xenon lamp having the following light intensity is preferable. In this case, since high-intensity light can be irradiated onto the sample, weather resistance testing can be easily accelerated. Furthermore, since the wavelength waveform of the light emitted from a xenon (Xe) lamp is close to that of sunlight, it is possible to easily obtain test results that are close to those obtained under actual environmental conditions. In other words, by using the light source described above, it is possible to obtain test results that reproduce weather resistance testing under actual environmental conditions at an early stage. Note that "light intensity (mW / cm²)" used here refers to the light intensity (mW / cm²). 2 ")" refers to the amount of light (illuminance) at a wavelength of 365nm emitted from a light source, and is a value measured using methods such as an ultraviolet integrated light meter (UIT-250 with UVD-S365 receiver, manufactured by Ushio Inc.).

[0011] (4) In any of the weather resistance testing apparatuses (1) to (3) described above, it is preferable that the light from the light source includes at least ultraviolet light. In this case, the irradiated light will include ultraviolet light, which is contained in sunlight and easily affects the degradation of materials, and it will be possible to easily obtain test results that reproduce tests under actual environmental conditions.

[0012] (5) In any of the weather resistance test apparatuses (1) to (4) described above, the light irradiation device may further include an optical filter that removes at least one of ultraviolet light and infrared light with wavelengths of 290 nm or less from the light source. Since ultraviolet light with wavelengths of 290 nm or less is present in trace amounts in sunlight, using an optical filter that removes ultraviolet light with wavelengths of 290 nm or less makes it easy to obtain test results that reproduce tests under actual environmental conditions. In addition, if the light irradiated onto the sample contains infrared light, the sample will be heated by the infrared light. However, by using an optical filter that removes infrared light, such as by providing a separate temperature control device that is easy to control, it becomes possible to conduct tests with reduced infrared light effects, making it possible to perform weather resistance tests under more desired test conditions.

[0013] (6) Any of the above weather resistance test apparatuses (1) to (5) may further include a gas introduction unit for introducing a gas containing oxygen gas into a pressurized container, a pressure adjustment unit for adjusting the air pressure inside the pressurized container, a humidification unit for humidifying the gas, a spray unit for spraying liquid onto the sample inside the pressurized container, a temperature adjustment unit for adjusting the temperature of the sample, a detection unit for detecting at least one of the amount of gas introduced, air pressure, gas humidity, and sample temperature, and a control unit for controlling at least one of the gas introduction unit, pressure adjustment unit, humidification unit, spray unit, and temperature adjustment unit based on the value detected by the detection unit. In this case, a weather resistance test to evaluate the deterioration of the sample due to heat, water (rain), and oxygen can be performed more specifically, and the weather resistance test can be accelerated by pressurizing. That is, with the above configuration, the deterioration of the sample due to oxygen is accelerated, and deterioration due to light irradiation and deterioration due to oxygen, water (rain), temperature, etc. can be balanced, making it possible to reproduce test results similar to those of a weather resistance test performed over a long period of time in a real environment in a shorter time.

[0014] (7) In the weathering test apparatus (6) described above, the control unit may control the gas inlet so that the concentration of oxygen gas introduced from the gas inlet is 20% or more of the total gas. In this case, weathering test results that are closer to those of the actual environment can be obtained.

[0015] (8) In the weathering test apparatus (6) or (7) described above, the control unit may control at least one of the gas inlet and the pressure adjustment unit so that the partial pressure of oxygen gas introduced from the gas inlet is 0.2 MPa or more and 0.9 MPa or less. In this case, it is possible to further accelerate deterioration due to oxygen and further accelerate weathering tests that are closer to actual environmental conditions. The "partial pressure of oxygen" used here is the value of the partial pressure of oxygen inside the apparatus when atmospheric pressure is set to 0 MPa.

[0016] (9) Any of the weather resistance testing apparatuses (1) to (8) described above may further include a gas introduction unit for introducing gas into a pressurized container, a pressure adjustment unit for adjusting the air pressure inside the pressurized container, a liquid supply unit for supplying liquid into the pressurized container, a drainage container connected to the pressurized container, an openable and closable inlet valve provided between the pressurized container and the drainage container, and an openable and closable discharge valve for discharging the liquid from the drainage container. With this configuration, by adjusting the opening and closing operations of the inlet valve and the discharge valve, when performing a weather resistance test by pressurizing the inside of the pressurized container, it is possible to suppress pressure changes inside the pressurized container while discharging any excess liquid supplied into the pressurized container. In this embodiment, it is preferable that the total volume of the drainage container is less than or equal to the volume of the pressurized container. In this case, pressure changes inside the pressurized container during liquid discharge can be suppressed more reliably.

[0017] (10) Any one of the above weather resistance test apparatuses (1) to (9) may further include a gas introduction part for introducing gas into the pressure vessel, a pressure adjustment part for adjusting the air pressure in the pressure vessel, and a pressure release valve for releasing the pressure in the pressure vessel. This pressure release valve releases the pressure when the air pressure in the pressure vessel exceeds the adjustable air pressure by the pressure adjustment part. Also, the maximum flow rate of the gas released from the pressure release valve may be larger than the maximum flow rate of the gas flowing from the pressure adjustment part. According to this configuration, even if excessive pressure is applied to the pressure vessel for some reason, by opening the pressure release valve, it is possible to prevent damage to the pressure vessel and failure of the measuring instruments, etc. Thereby, the safety can be further improved. Also, in this aspect, the weather resistance test apparatus may further include a seal valve for releasing the pressure in the pressure vessel at once. The seal valve releases the pressure when the air pressure in the pressure vessel is higher than the release pressure value of the pressure release valve. According to this configuration, the pressure release is provided in two stages, and it is possible to more reliably prevent damage to the pressure vessel and failure of the measuring instruments, etc.

[0018] (11) As another aspect, the present invention relates to a weather resistance test method. This weather resistance test method is a test method for evaluating the weather resistance of a sample using a weather resistance test apparatus having any one of the above configurations (1) to (10). This weather resistance test method includes a step of holding the sample in the sample holding part and a step of irradiating the sample with light from the light irradiation device. According to such a weather resistance test method, as described above, by using a pressure vessel, it is possible to promote the weather resistance test while improving safety. Also, according to this weather resistance test method, for example, it becomes easier to perform optical designs such as increasing the amount of light irradiated, making it easier to select the wavelength of the irradiated light, or reducing the unevenness of the illuminance of the light irradiated to the sample, etc., so that it approaches the test in the actual environment (especially the optical aspect), or promotes a state close to the actual environment, and it is possible to promote the weather resistance test while reproducing the test results in the actual environment.

[0019] In the above weather resistance test method (11), it is preferable that the light irradiated on the sample is parallel light including ultraviolet light. In this case, as described above, the light irradiated on the sample becomes more uniform, and it becomes possible to stably perform the weather resistance test. Further, when testing a plurality of samples simultaneously, unevenness in the illuminance of the light irradiated on each sample is eliminated, so that during the weather resistance test, it is not necessary to perform operations such as rearranging the samples to even out the illuminance unevenness. As a result, it becomes possible to obtain more accurate weather resistance test results with a smaller amount of work. Furthermore, in this test method, since the irradiated light includes ultraviolet light, it becomes possible to easily obtain test results that reproduce the test under actual environmental conditions.

Advantages of the Invention

[0020] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a weather resistance test device and a weather resistance test method capable of improving safety while promoting the weather resistance test.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0021] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the configuration of a weather resistance test device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the configuration of a weather resistance test device according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the configuration of a weather resistance test device according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the configuration of a weather resistance test device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a view showing a modification of the weather resistance test shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a view showing illuminance unevenness in Comparative Example 1. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a view showing illuminance unevenness in Example 1. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a sample (cosmetic sheet) used in tests such as Example 2. [Figure 9]Figure 9 is a table showing the test results for Example 2 and Comparative Example 2. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0022] Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings, a weather resistance testing apparatus and a weather resistance testing method according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail. In the description, the same reference numerals may be used for the same element or element having the same function, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0023] [First Embodiment] Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a weather resistance test apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 1, the weather resistance test apparatus 1 comprises a pressurized container 2, a sample holding section 3, a light irradiation device 4, a gas inlet pipe 5 (gas inlet section), a humidifier 6 (humidification section), a gas exhaust pipe 7, a pressure regulator 8 (pressure adjustment section), a water spray pipe 9 (spray section, liquid supply section), a water flow rate regulator 10, a drain pipe 11, a drain valve 12, a temperature regulator 13 (temperature adjustment section), a detection section 14, and a control unit 15. In the weather resistance test apparatus 1, a sample S is held on the sample holding section 3 inside the pressurized container 2, and while introducing a gas such as oxygen or nitrogen from the gas inlet pipe 5, the pressure inside the pressurized container 2 is adjusted to a predetermined internal pressure using the pressure regulator 8. 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 the water spray pipe 9, and the sample S is further heated by the temperature regulator 13. The temperature controller 13 may cool the sample S as needed. The gas, such as oxygen, introduced from the gas introduction pipe 5 may be humidified by the humidifier 6. The sample S is left in such an environment for a predetermined period of time, and a weather resistance test is performed to determine how quickly the sample S deteriorates due to light and heat from the sun, moisture from rain, oxygen in the atmosphere, etc. The weather resistance test apparatus 1 may further include a housing that contains each of the above-described components, and may be configured to prevent ultraviolet rays and high-intensity light leaking from the light irradiation device 4 from leaking out.

[0024] The pressurized container 2 is a pressurized, sealed container having a storage section 2a for housing the sample holder 3, etc., and a lid 2b that closes the opening of the storage section 2a. The pressurized container 2 has, for example, a removable upper lid 2b, and the lid 2b is removed from the storage section 2a when installing the sample S. After installing the sample S, the lid 2b is attached to the storage section 2a so that the inside is airtight, and is secured by tightening bolts or the like around each circumference. The pressurized container 2 can be made of various materials as long as they have pressure resistance against the pressure inside the container, but can be made of, for example, SUS, aluminum alloy, iron, titanium alloy, tungsten alloy, etc.

[0025] The storage section 2a is connected to a gas inlet pipe 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 storage section 2a. This allows a predetermined test gas (oxygen, etc.) to be introduced into the pressurized container 2 from the gas inlet pipe 5, unwanted gas to be discharged from the gas exhaust pipe 7, water to be sprayed onto the sample S from the water spray pipe 9, and unwanted water to be discharged from the drain pipe 11. In the example of the apparatus shown in Figure 1, the lid 2b is removed, so the various pipes are connected together to the storage section 2a, but some of these pipes may be connected to the lid 2b.

[0026] An opening 2c is provided in the central region of the lid 2b facing the sample holding section 3 (sample S). A quartz glass plate 16 (light-transmitting section) is hermetically fitted into this opening 2c. The quartz glass plate 16 is positioned to face the sample holding section 3 and is configured to transmit light L irradiated from the light irradiation device 4 without attenuation, so that the light L is irradiated directly onto the sample S. The quartz glass plate 16 may be a light-transmitting member made of other materials as long as it can transmit light L (especially ultraviolet light) irradiated from the light irradiation device 4. Since the quartz glass plate 16 constitutes part of the pressurized container 2, it is structured to maintain the atmosphere and pressure inside the pressurized container 2.

[0027] The sample holding section 3 is a component that holds the sample S used in the weather resistance test. The sample holding section 3 is composed of, for example, a plate-shaped member 3a and a support member 3b that supports it, and the sample S is placed on the plate-shaped member 3a and held in place by being attached with aluminum tape or the like. The plate-shaped member 3a of the sample holding section 3 may be attached to the support member 3b so as to be horizontal, but it may also be inclined with respect to the horizontal so that the water sprayed from the water spray pipe 9 does not accumulate on the sample S. The sample holding section 3 may also have a temperature controller 13 built in. The temperature controller 13 can be configured to have a heater and a cooling channel built in, 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 the weather resistance test by heating or cooling the sample S held in the sample holding section 3 to a predetermined temperature. When heating the sample S with the temperature controller 13, it is preferable that the heating temperature is 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 degradation caused by light, oxygen, humidity, etc., without accelerating degradation due to heat alone. Alternatively, a gas temperature control mechanism may be provided to heat or cool the gas introduced from the gas introduction pipe 5 instead of or in combination with the temperature controller 13, or a temperature controller may be provided in the pressurized container 2 to control the temperature of the container itself, or a combination of these may be used.

[0028] The light irradiation device 4 comprises a light source 4a that emits light L, and an optical filter 4b that removes some wavelengths of light from the light source 4a. The light source 4a can be any light source that emits light L containing at least ultraviolet light, and for example, carbon arcs used in weather resistance tests, high-pressure mercury, xenon lamps, metal halides, etc., can be used alone or in combination of two different types of light sources. The light source 4a 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 4a. Furthermore, it is preferable that the light emitted from the light source 4a contains light in the wavelength range of 290 nm to 390 nm, and at least some of the light in the wavelength range of 290 nm to 390 nm. The spectral shape of the light emitted from the light source 4a is preferably close to that of sunlight, and although it may contain light with wavelengths shorter than 290 nm, it is preferable to cut it out with the optical filter 4b. Furthermore, while light with wavelengths longer than 390 nm in the light source L does not directly degrade the sample S, light with wavelengths in the infrared region in particular may be left in because 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 mentioned above, infrared light with wavelengths greater than 390 nm may be cut off with the optical filter 4b to eliminate the effect of heating by light L.

[0029] The light irradiation device 4 is preferably configured to irradiate the sample S with light L from the light source 4a as parallel light, but is not limited to this. For example, the light L from the light source 4a may be configured to spread radially to some extent. In this case, it is preferable to consider the arrangement of the sample S so that the illuminance of the light L from the light irradiation device 4 is uniform across the sample S (or the illuminance of each sample S is the same when testing multiple samples S). Furthermore, the amount of light L irradiated from the light irradiation device 4 should be higher than that of sunlight. For example, the amount of light irradiated from the light source 4a at a wavelength of 365 nm should be 15 mW / cm². 2 More than 60mW / cm 2The following is preferable. 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.

[0030] The gas introduction pipe 5 is a pipe for introducing gas from outside the pressurized container 2 into the pressurized container 2, and is a component for changing the atmosphere inside the pressurized container 2 or increasing the pressure. The gas introduced into the pressurized container 2 from the gas introduction pipe 5 is introduced into the pressurized container 2 at a pressure at least equal to or greater than the pressure set by the pressure regulator 8. The gas introduced from the gas introduction pipe 5 may be, for example, oxygen gas, nitrogen gas, or a mixture of oxygen gas and nitrogen gas. The gas introduction pipe 5 may be equipped with a mass flow controller (not shown) to adjust the flow rate of the gas being introduced, or if two or more types of gas are to be introduced, a gas mixer (not shown) may be provided to switch or mix the gases being introduced.

[0031] The humidifier 6 is connected, for example, to the gas inlet pipe 5 and is a device that humidifies the gas introduced through the gas inlet pipe 5 by bubbling the water inside the humidifier 6. The humidifier 6 sets the humidity inside the pressurized container 2 to a predetermined range. Alternatively, a hygrometer (not shown) may be installed between the humidifier 6 and the pressurized container 2 or inside the pressurized container 2, and the humidification by the humidifier 6 may be controlled by the control unit 15 or the like based on humidity information from the hygrometer.

[0032] 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. When the detection unit 14 or the like detects that the pressure inside the pressurized container 2 has exceeded the set pressure, the control unit 15 controls the valve inside the pressure regulator 8 to open and adjust the pressure to the set pressure.

[0033] The water spray tube 9 is a component for spraying water onto a 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 flow rate regulator 10 is a device that adjusts the amount of water sprayed from the water spray tube 9 onto the sample S, 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 with adjusted pH to simulate acid rain, water containing metal ions, or a mixture of these, or hydrogen peroxide, etc.

[0034] 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 and other substances 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.

[0035] The detection unit 14 is a sensor that detects various conditions inside the pressurized container 2, and for example, it detects one of the following: humidity, temperature (internal temperature or sample temperature), pressure, gas concentration, gas flow rate, or the water level mentioned above. The detection unit 14 outputs the detected information (detected value) to the control unit 15.

[0036] The control unit 15 is a device that controls the overall operation of the weathering test apparatus 1 and is composed of, for example, a computer equipped with a CPU. The control unit 15 is electrically connected via wiring to the mass flow controller of the gas inlet pipe 5, the humidifier 6, the pressure regulator 8, the water flow regulator 10, the drain valve 12, the temperature regulator 13, and the detection unit 14. Based on the gas inlet flow rate detected by the detection unit 14, etc., and the atmospheric pressure, temperature, humidity, water level, etc. inside the pressurized container 2, the control unit 15 controls the operation of the mass flow controller of the gas inlet pipe 5, the humidifier 6, the pressure regulator 8, the water flow regulator 10, the drain valve 12, and the temperature regulator 13. Through the control of the control unit 15, the sample S placed inside the weathering test apparatus 1 is placed in a predetermined environment. The control unit 15 is also electrically connected via wiring to the light irradiation device 4 located outside the pressurized container 2, and controls the amount of light L irradiated, the irradiation time, the interval, etc.

[0037] Specifically, the control unit 15 controls the mass flow controller and pressure regulator 8 of the gas inlet pipe 5 to adjust the concentration of the gas introduced from the gas inlet pipe 5 and the pressure inside the pressurized container 2. For example, the gas introduced from the gas inlet pipe 5 may be pressurized so that the partial pressure of oxygen contained in the gas is greater than the partial pressure of oxygen in the atmosphere. The control unit 15 may also mix the oxygen gas and nitrogen gas (inert gas) introduced by the gas inlet pipe 5 by controlling the mass flow controller to achieve a desired concentration. Furthermore, after mixing the oxygen gas and nitrogen gas (inert gas) introduced by the gas inlet pipe 5 to a desired concentration, the control unit 15 may pressurize the mixed gas introduced into the pressurized container 2 using a compression pump or the like. In weather resistance tests using the weather resistance test apparatus 1, it is preferable that the concentration of the introduced oxygen gas is higher than the oxygen concentration in the atmosphere, for example, it may be 20% to 100% by volume relative to the total gas in the pressurized container 2.

[0038] Furthermore, in the control by the control unit 15, it is preferable that the atmospheric pressure inside the pressurized container 2 is adjusted by the pressure regulator 8 to a gauge pressure of 1 MPa or less. At this time, the oxygen concentration of the gas introduced under pressurization is preferably 1% to 100% as the oxygen concentration before pressurization. More preferably, it is 0.5 MPa or less as the gauge pressure. The oxygen concentration of the gas introduced under pressurization is preferably 4% to 100% as the oxygen concentration before pressurization. By suppressing the atmospheric pressure in this way, the thickness of the pressurized container 2 can be reduced, and as a result, the pressurized container 2 and the weather resistance testing device 1 can be made smaller and lighter.

[0039] Furthermore, the control unit 15 may control the humidifier 6 to reproduce the weather resistance due to humidity in a real environment. Humidity adjustment by the control unit 15 is performed by humidifying the introduced gas with the humidifier 6 based on humidity information detected by the detection unit 14. Humidification in the weather resistance test apparatus 1 is sufficient to a certain extent, but it is preferable that the humidity inside the pressurized container 2 be between 40% and 100%, and more preferably between 50% and 100%. The control unit 15 controls the humidifier 6 to achieve this humidity range. When performing accelerated weathering tests, it is preferable to select the oxygen concentration inside the pressurized container 2 according to the amount of ultraviolet light irradiated from the light source 4a of the weather resistance test apparatus 1, in relation to the amount of oxygen required when the sample deteriorates due to the amount of ultraviolet light contained in sunlight in a real environment. Furthermore, in order to promote the diffusion of oxygen into the sample S, it is possible to accelerate the deterioration of the sample S by increasing the pressure inside the pressurized container.

[0040] 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. Furthermore, the sample S is not limited to the decorative sheet described later, but may also be a component made of various inorganic or organic materials, and is not particularly limited. Once such a sample S is prepared, the lid 2b of the pressurized container 2 is removed and the sample S is held in place by attaching it to the sample holding section 3. Then, the lid 2b is airtightly attached to the storage section 2a and fixed with bolts or the like. This makes the pressurized container 2 containing the sample S airtight.

[0041] 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 pipe 5. The concentration and pressure (partial pressure) of the introduced gas are controlled to predetermined values. Furthermore, the water flow rate regulator 10 controlled by the control unit 15 adjusts the amount of water supplied to the sample S from the nozzle of the water spray pipe 9 continuously or at predetermined intervals. In addition, the temperature regulator 13 adjusts the temperature under the control of the control unit 15, keeping the sample S at a predetermined temperature (for example, 80°C). In this state, in the weathering resistance test apparatus 1, a predetermined amount of light L is irradiated into the pressurized container 2 from the light irradiation device 4 via the quartz glass plate 16, and the sample S is irradiated.

[0042] 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.

[0043] Furthermore, in real-world environments, sample degradation is not limited to degradation caused by light, but also by rain and moisture (humidity) in the atmosphere. Water adhering to the sample surface due to rain or humidity diffuses from the sample surface into the sample's interior, causing degradation through hydrolysis and other processes. Therefore, in the weathering test apparatus 1, similar to the relationship between the light intensity of the light source and oxygen, the amount of water spray and the humidity inside the pressurized container 2 can be selected to promote degradation by water. In addition, pressurizing the inside of the pressurized container 2 promotes the diffusion of water into the sample. Moreover, the temperature of sample S can be changed to further promote the reaction between the sample degraded by light irradiation and oxygen, and the hydrolysis reaction by water. This sample temperature may be adjusted based on the light intensity from the light irradiation device 4. In the weathering test apparatus 1, by appropriately selecting these light intensity, oxygen concentration, pressure, water, humidity, and temperature, degradation by light and degradation by water proceed in a balanced manner, and it is possible to obtain weathering test results in a short period of time that are similar to those obtained over a long period of time in real-world environments, without suffering from adverse effects such as being strongly affected only by light.

[0044] In the weathering test apparatus 1 described above, a light irradiation device 4 having a light source 4a is positioned outside the pressurized container 2, and the apparatus is configured to irradiate the sample S inside the pressurized container 2 with light L from outside the pressurized container 2. In this case, because the light irradiation device 4 is outside the pressurized container 2, the light irradiation device 4 is not damaged by the high-pressure atmosphere, and even if it is damaged for some reason, it does not cause a sudden increase in the pressure inside the pressurized container 2, thus reducing the impact on the pressurized container 2. As a result, with this weathering test apparatus 1, it is possible to improve safety while accelerating weathering tests by using a pressurized container 2. Furthermore, with the weathering test apparatus 1, because the light irradiation device 4 is positioned outside the pressurized container 2, it is not necessary to make the pressurized container 2, which requires high safety standards, unnecessarily large, and an apparatus using a smaller pressurized container 2 can be used. Safety can be improved in this respect as well. Furthermore, by placing the light irradiation device 4 outside the pressurized container 2, it becomes easier to perform optical design of the light irradiation device 4, such as increasing the amount of light L irradiated, making it easier to select the wavelength of light L irradiated, or reducing the unevenness of the illuminance of the light irradiated onto the sample S. This makes it possible to bring the test closer to actual environmental conditions (especially in terms of optics), or to accelerate the test while maintaining conditions close to those of an actual environment, thereby accelerating the weather resistance test while reproducing the test results under actual environmental conditions.

[0045] Furthermore, in the weather resistance test apparatus 1 according to this embodiment, the light source 4a is 15 mW / cm². 2 More than 60mW / cm 2 A xenon lamp having the following light intensity is preferable. In this case, high-intensity light L can be irradiated onto the sample S, making it possible to easily expedite the weather resistance test. Furthermore, since the wavelength waveform of the light emitted from the xenon (Xe) lamp is close to that of sunlight, it is possible to easily obtain test results that are close to those obtained under actual environmental conditions. In other words, by using the light source described above, it is possible to obtain test results that reproduce weather resistance tests under actual environmental conditions at an early stage.

[0046] Furthermore, in the weather resistance test apparatus 1 according to this embodiment, it is preferable that the light L from the light source 4a includes at least ultraviolet light. In this case, the irradiated light includes ultraviolet light, which is contained in sunlight and easily affects the degradation of materials, making it possible to easily obtain test results that reproduce tests under actual environmental conditions.

[0047] Furthermore, in the weather resistance test apparatus 1 according to this embodiment, the light irradiation device 4 may further include an optical filter 4b that removes at least one of ultraviolet light and infrared light with wavelengths of 290 nm or less from the light from the light source 4a. Since ultraviolet light with wavelengths of 290 nm or less is present in trace amounts in sunlight, using an optical filter 4b that removes ultraviolet light with wavelengths of 290 nm or less makes it easy to obtain test results that reproduce tests under actual environmental conditions. In addition, if the light irradiated onto the sample contains infrared light, the sample will be heated by the infrared light. However, by using an optical filter that removes infrared light, such as by providing a separate temperature controller 13 that is easy to control, it becomes possible to conduct tests with reduced infrared light effects, making it possible to perform weather resistance tests under more desired test conditions.

[0048] Furthermore, the weather resistance test apparatus 1 according to this embodiment further comprises a gas introduction pipe 5 for introducing a gas containing oxygen gas into a pressurized container 2, a pressure regulator 8 for adjusting the air pressure inside the pressurized container 2, a humidifier 6 for humidifying the gas, a water spray pipe 9 for spraying liquid onto the sample S inside the pressurized container 2, a temperature regulator 13 for adjusting the temperature of the sample S, a detection unit 14 for detecting at least one of the amount of gas introduced, air pressure, gas humidity, and sample temperature, and a control unit 15 for controlling the gas introduction pipe 5, pressure regulator 8, humidifier 6, water spray pipe 9, and temperature regulator 13 based on the values ​​detected by the detection unit 14. In this case, a weather resistance test can be performed more specifically to evaluate the deterioration of the sample S due to heat, water (rain), and oxygen, and the weather resistance test can be accelerated by pressurizing. In other words, with the above configuration, the degradation of sample S by oxygen is accelerated, and degradation by light irradiation and degradation by oxygen, water (rain), temperature, etc. can be balanced, making it possible to reproduce test results similar to those obtained in weather resistance tests conducted over a long period of time in a real environment, in a shorter time.

[0049] Furthermore, in the weather resistance test apparatus 1 according to this embodiment, the control unit 15 may control the mass flow controller of the gas inlet pipe 5 so that the concentration of oxygen gas introduced from the gas inlet pipe 5 relative to the total gas is 20% or more. In this case, weather resistance test results closer to those of a real environment can be obtained.

[0050] Furthermore, in the weathering test apparatus 1 according to this embodiment, the control unit 15 may control the mass flow controller and pressure regulator 8 of the gas inlet pipe 5 so that the partial pressure of oxygen gas introduced from the gas inlet pipe 5 is between 0.2 MPa and 0.9 MPa. In this case, it is possible to further accelerate deterioration due to oxygen and further accelerate weathering tests that are closer to actual environmental conditions. Note that the "partial pressure of oxygen" used here is the value of the partial pressure of oxygen inside the apparatus when atmospheric pressure is set to 0 MPa.

[0051] [Second Embodiment] Next, with reference to Figure 2, a weather resistance testing apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. As shown in Figure 2, the weather resistance testing apparatus 1A according to the second embodiment includes, similar to the first embodiment, a pressurized container 2, a sample holding unit 3, a light irradiation device 4, a gas introduction pipe 5, a humidifier 6, a gas exhaust pipe 7, a pressure regulator 8, a water spray pipe 9, a water flow rate regulator 10, a drain pipe 11, a temperature regulator, and a control unit 15. The weather resistance testing apparatus 1A further includes a drainage mechanism 20, liquid level gauges 22a, 22b, a hygrometer 24, and a monitor unit 26.

[0052] The drainage mechanism 20 is attached to the drain pipe 11 and discharges unwanted water by performing a predetermined operation. The drainage mechanism 20 includes a drain tank 20a (drainage container) connected to the drain pipe 11, an openable and closable inlet valve 20b provided on the inlet side of the drain tank 20a of the drain pipe 11, and an openable and closable discharge valve 20c provided on the discharge side of the drain tank 20a of the drain pipe 11. The inlet valve 20b and the discharge valve 20c are normally closed during the weathering test and are controlled to maintain the pressure and atmosphere (oxygen gas concentration, etc.) inside the pressurized container 2.

[0053] The volume of the drainage tank 20a is set to be less than or equal to the volume of the pressurized container 2. Specifically, it is preferable that the volume of the drainage tank 20a be set to be 1 / 6 or less of the volume of the pressurized container 2. More preferably, it is 1 / 6 or less, or 1 / 60 or more. If multiple drainage tanks 20a are provided, it is preferable that the total volume of the multiple drainage tanks 20a that can be opened simultaneously is set to be less than or equal to the volume of the pressurized container 2.

[0054] The inlet valve 20b and the outlet valve 20c are controlled by the control unit 15. The inlet valve 20b is controlled to be open, for example, when the water spraying (liquid supply) by the water spray pipe 9 is finished. At this time, the outlet valve 20c is controlled to be closed. When all the water in the pressurized container 2 has moved to the drain tank 20a, the inlet valve 20b is controlled to be closed by the control unit 15. On the other hand, after the water in the pressurized container 2 has moved to the drain tank 20a and the inlet valve 20b is controlled to be closed, the outlet valve 20c is controlled from the closed state to the open state by the control unit 15, and the water stored in the drain tank 20a is discharged.

[0055] The pressurized container 2 and the drainage tank 20a are equipped with liquid level gauges to detect the water level inside the container (tank): a liquid level gauge 22a for detecting the water level in the pressurized container 2 and a liquid level gauge 22b for detecting the water level in the drainage tank 20a. The information detected by the liquid level gauges 22a and 22b is input to the control unit 15 via the monitor unit 26.

[0056] The monitoring unit 26 receives measurement signals from the liquid level gauges 22a and 22b and the hygrometer 30, displays these measurement signals on a display device (not shown), and transmits each measurement signal to the control unit 15. Users of the weather resistance test apparatus 1A can monitor the liquid levels in the pressurized container 2 and the drainage tank 20a, as well as the humidity in the pressurized container 2, by referring to the display on the monitoring unit 26.

[0057] In addition to the control in the first embodiment, the control unit 15 performs the following further control. Specifically, the control unit 15 controls the water flow regulator 10 to spray water onto the sample S via the water spray pipe 9, then stops the operation of the water flow regulator 10, and then controls the inlet valve 20b to open. As a result, all the water in the pressurized container 2 moves to the drain tank 20a. The control unit 15 then controls the inlet valve 20b to close. Once the inlet valve 20b is switched to the closed state, the control unit 15 then controls the discharge valve 20c to open from the closed state. As a result, all the water stored in the drain tank 20a is discharged. The control unit 15 then controls the discharge valve 20c to close.

[0058] The control unit 15 may detect that all the water in the pressurized container 2 has moved to the drain tank 20a based on the reading of the liquid level gauge 22a installed in the pressurized container 2. Alternatively, the control unit 15 may detect that all the water in the drain tank 20a has been discharged based on the reading of the liquid level gauge 22b installed in the drain tank 20a. Furthermore, if the control unit 15 determines that the water level in the pressurized container 2 or the water level in the drain tank 20a exceeds a specified value based on the readings of the liquid level gauges 22a and 22b, it may determine that an abnormality has occurred and, as described above, control the inlet valve 20b or the outlet valve 20c to drain the water. This allows the water in the pressurized container 2 or the drain tank 20a to be discharged. In this case, the control unit 15 may also perform abnormality handling, such as stopping the water supply by the water spray pipe 17.

[0059] As described above, the weather resistance testing apparatus 1A according to the second embodiment can achieve the same effects as the first embodiment. Furthermore, the weather resistance testing apparatus 1A includes a gas introduction pipe 5 for introducing gas into the pressurized container 2, a pressure regulator 8 for adjusting the air pressure inside the pressurized container 2, a water spray pipe 9 for supplying liquid into the pressurized container 2, a drain tank 20a connected to the pressurized container 2, an openable and closable inlet valve 20b provided between the pressurized container 2 and the drain tank 20a, and an openable and closable discharge valve 20c for discharging the liquid in the drain tank 20a. With this configuration, by controlling the opening and closing operations of the inlet valve 20b and the discharge valve 20c, when performing a weather resistance test by pressurizing the inside of the pressurized container 2, it is possible to suppress pressure changes inside the pressurized container 2 while discharging excess liquid from the liquid supplied into the pressurized container 2 to the outside of the container.

[0060] Furthermore, in the weather resistance testing apparatus 1A, it is preferable that the total volume of one or more drainage tanks 20a is less than or equal to the volume of the pressurized container 2. This makes it possible to more reliably suppress pressure changes inside the pressurized container 2 when liquid is discharged.

[0061] [Third Embodiment] Next, with reference to Figure 3, a weather resistance testing apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described. As shown in Figure 3, the weather resistance testing apparatus 1B according to the third embodiment includes, similar to the first embodiment, a pressurized container 2, a sample holding unit 3, a light irradiation device 4, a gas introduction pipe 5, a humidifier 6, a gas exhaust pipe 7, a pressure regulator 8, a water spray pipe 9, a water flow rate regulator 10, a drain pipe 11, a drain valve 12, a temperature regulator, and a control unit 15. The weather resistance testing apparatus 1B further includes a monitor unit 26, a gas release pipe 30, a pressure release valve 31, and a pressure gauge 32. The basic function of the monitor unit 26 is the same as in the second embodiment.

[0062] The gas release pipe 30 is a device that opens a pressure relief valve 31 attached to the gas release pipe 30 to promote gas exhaust when the pressure inside the pressurized container 2 rises and the pressure inside the pressurized container 2 does not fall to a set pressure value even after exhausting through the gas exhaust pipe 7. The control unit 15 acquires the detected value (pressure value) from the pressure gauge 32 attached to the pressurized container 2 via the monitor unit 26, and controls the pressure relief valve 31 to open when the acquired pressure value exceeds a predetermined threshold. This control reduces the pressure inside the pressurized container 2 when the atmospheric pressure inside the pressurized container 2 rises rapidly. The control unit 15 transmits a control signal corresponding to the acquired pressure value to the pressure relief valve 31, and the pressure relief valve 31 opens the valve to a predetermined opening degree based on the acquired control signal (i.e., based on the detected pressure value). The control unit 15 may also perform control to fully open the pressure relief valve 31 when the acquired pressure value exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0063] The pressure relief valve 31 may be a component that deforms in response to the air pressure inside the pressurized container 2. For example, the pressure relief valve 31 may be a mechanical valve to which an elastic component such as a spring is attached. When such a valve is used, the valve can be automatically opened with a simplified configuration when the air pressure inside the pressurized container 2 increases, without the need for a control signal from the control unit 15. Furthermore, using such a valve allows the valve to be operated (opened) in response to the rise in air pressure inside the pressurized container 2, even if the pressure gauge 32 malfunctions.

[0064] The pressure threshold for opening the pressure relief valve 31 may be a pressure value higher than the set pressure of the pressure regulator 8. The pressure relief valve 31 may be set to operate (open) controlled or mechanically when the atmospheric pressure inside the pressurized container 2 exceeds this threshold. Furthermore, it is preferable that the pressure threshold for opening the pressure relief valve 31 be set lower than the pressure resistance of the pressurized container 2. This prevents the pressurized container 2 from becoming unable to withstand the pressure and breaking before the pressure relief valve 31 is opened.

[0065] Furthermore, if the pressure relief valve 31 remains open for a predetermined time but the pressure inside the pressurized container 2 does not decrease, the control unit 15 may determine that there is a malfunction in the device and stop gas introduction, humidity control, or water spraying, or even stop the weather resistance test itself.

[0066] As described above, the weather resistance testing apparatus 1B according to the third embodiment can achieve the same effects as the first embodiment. Furthermore, the weather resistance testing apparatus 1B further includes a gas introduction pipe 5 for introducing gas into the pressurized container 2, a pressure regulator 8 for adjusting the air pressure inside the pressurized container 2, and a pressure relief valve 31 for releasing the pressure inside the pressurized container 2. The pressure relief valve 31 releases pressure when the air pressure inside the pressurized container 2 exceeds the air pressure that can be adjusted by the pressure regulator 8. In addition, the maximum flow rate of gas released from the pressure relief valve 31 may be greater than the maximum flow rate of gas flowing from the pressure regulator 8. That is, it is preferable that the amount of gas released from the pressure relief valve 31 is greater than the amount of gas discharged through the pressure regulator 8. With this configuration, even if excessive pressure is applied to the pressurized container 2 for any reason, it is possible to prevent damage to the pressurized container 2 or malfunction of measuring equipment by fully opening or opening the pressure relief valve 31 according to the sub-pressure. This further improves safety. Note that the third embodiment described above may be combined with the configuration of the second embodiment.

[0067] [Fourth Embodiment] Next, with reference to Figure 4, a weather resistance test apparatus according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. As shown in Figure 4, the weather resistance test apparatus 1C according to the fourth embodiment, like the third embodiment, includes a pressurized container 2, a sample holding unit 3, a light irradiation device 4, a gas introduction pipe 5, a humidifier 6, a gas exhaust pipe 7, a pressure regulator 8, a water spray pipe 9, a water flow rate regulator 10, a drain pipe 11, a drain valve 12, a temperature regulator, a control unit 15, a monitoring unit 26, a gas release pipe 30, a pressure release valve 31, and a pressure gauge 32. The weather resistance test apparatus 1C according to the fourth embodiment further includes a seal valve 35.

[0068] The seal valve 35 is an emergency release valve provided in a part of the pressurized container 2, and is a valve that can rapidly release the gas inside the pressurized container 2 at a pressure lower than the pressurized container 2's pressure resistance. The pressure resistance of the seal valve 35 is set to be higher than that of the pressure release valve 31 and lower than that of the pressurized container 2. The seal valve 35 is not limited in terms of material as long as it satisfies the aforementioned pressure resistance conditions, but for example, it can be made using metal plates, ceramic plates, plastic plates, glass plates, etc., or made using laminates of these materials.

[0069] The seal valve 35 is configured to rupture before the pressurized container 2 is destroyed, in cases where the pressure rise inside the pressurized container 2 cannot be suppressed by opening the valve by the pressure relief valve 31 alone. By providing the seal valve 35, the pressurized container 2 can be protected from destruction in the event of a sudden increase in air pressure inside the pressurized container 2 for any reason. Furthermore, if the pressure relief valve 31 is configured to open and close based on a control signal (electrical signal) from the control unit 15, even if there is a malfunction in the control unit 15, the opening part of the pressure relief valve 31, or the pressure gauge 32, the presence of such a seal valve 35 can prevent the container from being destroyed due to a sudden increase in air pressure inside the pressurized container 2.

[0070] As described above, the weather resistance testing apparatus 1C according to the fourth embodiment can achieve the same effects as the first and third embodiments. Furthermore, the weather resistance testing apparatus 1C is further equipped with a seal valve 35 that releases the pressure inside the pressurized container 2 all at once. The seal valve 35 releases pressure when the atmospheric pressure inside the pressurized container 2 is higher than the release pressure value of the pressure release valve 31. With this configuration, pressure release is provided in two stages, making it possible to more reliably prevent damage to the pressurized container 2 and malfunction of measuring equipment. It should be noted that the fourth embodiment described above may be combined with the configuration of the second embodiment, as with the third embodiment.

[0071] The weather resistance testing apparatus according to this embodiment has been described above, but the weather resistance testing apparatus according to the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications can be applied. For example, in the above embodiment, it is preferable that the light L irradiated onto the sample S from the light irradiation device 4 is parallel light, but more specifically, it is possible to have a weather resistance testing apparatus 1A having an optical system with the configuration shown in Figure 5. The weather resistance testing apparatus 1D is equipped with a light irradiation device 4A and a pressurized container 2, and the light irradiation device 4A differs from the light irradiation device described above. The other configurations are the same as those of the weather resistance testing apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment described above, so their description will be omitted. The light irradiation device 4A according to this modified example is equipped with a light source 40, a reflector 41, a half mirror 42, a collimating lens 43, a reflective mirror 44, and a lens 45.

[0072] In the light irradiation device 4A, light L1 emitted from the light source 40 (e.g., a xenon lamp) is partially reflected by the reflector 41 and proceeds to the half mirror 42. In the half mirror 42, some wavelengths of light L1 (e.g., ultraviolet light) are reflected, while unwanted wavelengths are transmitted and not reflected, allowing light mainly ultraviolet light to propagate as light L2 towards the collimating lens 43. In the collimating lens 43, the incident light L2 is converted into parallel light (collimated light) L3, reflected by the reflective mirror 44, and propagated as parallel light through the lens 45 into the pressurized container 2, irradiating the sample S. In this modified light irradiation device 4A, since the light L3 irradiated onto the sample S is parallel light, the irradiation becomes more uniform, preventing strong light from being irradiated onto parts of the sample S, and enabling stable weather resistance testing. Furthermore, when testing multiple samples S simultaneously, the parallel light L3 eliminates illuminance unevenness for each sample S, thus eliminating the need to rearrange the samples to equalize illuminance during the weathering test (for example, over a period of 3 to 6 months). This makes it possible to obtain more accurate weathering test results with less work. In the weathering test apparatus 1D according to this modified example, the light irradiation device 4A is located outside the pressurized container 2, and there are not significant limitations on the size of the optical system for generating parallel light, making it possible to use a more optimal optical system. The optical system that forms parallel light may have other configurations. The light irradiation device 4A may also be equipped with the optical filter described above. The light irradiation device 4A described above may be applied to any of the embodiments described above. [Examples]

[0073] The present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to examples. However, the present invention is not limited to these examples.

[0074] (Test of uneven illumination) First, using a conventional metal weather meter (manufactured by Diple Winters Co., Ltd., device name: Diple Metal Weather), as shown in FIG. 6, the unevenness of the illuminance of the light irradiated on the area corresponding to the sample S from the light source (vertical 200 mm × horizontal 400 mm) was measured (Comparative Example 1). As shown in FIG. 6, when the above area was divided into nine places and the illuminance of each place was measured, the average illuminance was 65.1 mW / cm 2 and the maximum was 72 mW / cm 2 , and the minimum was 60 mW / cm 2 . The illuminance unevenness was 9.1%. The illuminance unevenness was calculated from the following formula. Illuminance unevenness (%) = ((maximum value - minimum value) / (maximum value + minimum value)) × 100

[0075] In contrast, a weather resistance test device 1D having the optical system shown in FIG. 5 was prepared, and the illuminance unevenness in the area corresponding to the sample S (vertical 72 mm × horizontal 156 mm) was measured (Example 1). [[ID=,13]]

[0076] As shown in FIG. 7, when the above area was divided into 17 places and the illuminance of each place was measured, since the incident light was parallel light, the average illuminance was 62 mW / cm 2 and the maximum was 65 mW / cm 2 , and the minimum was 61 mW / cm 2 . The illuminance unevenness remained at about 3.4%. Thus, it was confirmed that by making the light irradiating the sample in the weather resistance test device parallel light, the unevenness of the illuminance of the light irradiated on the sample can be reduced.

[0077] (Weather resistance test) Next, using the weather resistance test device 1D shown in FIG. 5, an actual weather resistance test of the decorative sheet was conducted. The method for producing the decorative sheet used in this weather resistance test is as follows. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the configuration of the decorative sheet 100. As comparative examples, typical weather resistance test machines (MW and Xe devices) and weather resistance tests in an actual environment were conducted. Each weather resistance test condition was as shown in the table of FIG. 9. The details of the test results will be described later.

[0078] <Production of transparent resin sheet> A highly crystalline homopolypropylene resin was mixed with 500 PPM of a hindered phenol antioxidant (Irganox 1010: manufactured by Ciba Specialty Chemicals), 2000 PPM of a benzotriazole ultraviolet absorber (Tinuvin 328: manufactured by Ciba Specialty Chemicals), 2000 PPM of a hindered amine light stabilizer (Kimasorb 944: manufactured by Ciba Specialty Chemicals), and 1000 PPM of a phosphate ester metal salt nucleating agent (ADEKA NA-21: manufactured by ADEKA). This mixture was extruded using a melt extruder to produce a 100 μm thick transparent resin sheet made of highly crystalline polypropylene, which was to be used as a transparent resin sheet 101 (resin layer). Subsequently, both sides of the produced transparent resin sheet 101 were subjected to corona treatment to achieve a surface wettability of 40 dyn / cm or more. Furthermore, various transparent resin sheets were produced by changing the extrusion temperature and cooling conditions such as the rolls during film formation.

[0079] <Production of decorative sheets> On one side of the resulting transparent resin sheet 101, a pattern was printed using a two-component curing urethane ink (V180: manufactured by Toyo Ink Mfg. Co., Ltd.) to create a pattern layer 102. Then, a layer of opaque two-component curing urethane ink (V180: manufactured by Toyo Ink Mfg. Co., Ltd.) was applied over the pattern layer 102 at a rate of 6 g / m². 2 The material was then coated to form an opacity layer 103. In addition, a two-component curing urethane ink (PET-E, Regiuser: manufactured by Dainichi Seika Co., Ltd.) was applied as a primer coat over the opacity layer 103 at a rate of 1 g / m². 2 A primer layer 105 was formed by applying it.

[0080] Next, an embossed pattern 101a is applied to the surface of the transparent resin sheet 101 using an embossing die roll. Then, a two-component curing urethane topcoat (W184: manufactured by Dainippon Ink Co., Ltd.) is applied to the embossed pattern 101a surface at a rate of 3g / m². 2The material was applied to obtain a decorative sheet 100 with a total thickness of 110 μm, including the coating layer 104. This decorative sheet 100 was bonded to a metal substrate using a urethane-based adhesive, and its weather resistance was evaluated using the various weather resistance testing machines described above. The evaluation results are shown in the table in Figure 9.

[0081] (Comparative Example 2) In addition, a metal weatherometer (manufactured by Dipra Wintes, device name: Dipra Metal Weather) was prepared as Comparative Example 2. The light source for this MW was a metal halide lamp. The conditions for Comparative Example 2 were as follows. Optical filter: Transmits wavelengths from 295nm to 780nm. Light intensity (illuminance): Light intensity for wavelengths of 330nm to 390nm Light intensity is set using an illuminance meter (manufactured by Ushio Inc.) with a central wavelength of 360 nm. In Comparative Example 2, the process of irradiation → water spraying → condensation → water spraying → irradiation was repeated, as shown in Table 1 below.

[0082] [Table 1]

[0083] (Comparative Example 3) As Comparative Example 3, a xenon (Xe) apparatus (manufactured by Toyo Seiki Co., Ltd., apparatus name: ATLAS Ci4000) was prepared. The light source of this apparatus was a xenon lamp. The conditions for Comparative Example 3 were as follows. Optical filter: Transmits wavelengths from 295nm to 780nm. Light intensity (illuminance): Light intensity for wavelengths of 300nm to 400nm. Light intensity is set using an illuminance meter with an absolute value calibration wavelength of 365nm (UIT250, UVD-S365 receiver, manufactured by Ushio Inc.). In Comparative Example 3, the process of irradiation → water spraying → condensation → water spraying → irradiation was repeated, as shown in Table 2 below.

[0084] [Table 2]

[0085] (Comparative Example 4) As Comparative Example 4, a super xenon (S-Xe) apparatus (manufactured by Toyo Seiki Co., Ltd., apparatus name: ATLAS Ci4000) was prepared. The light source of this apparatus was a xenon lamp. The apparatus used in Comparative Example 4 was the same as that of Comparative Example 3, except that the distance between the light source and the sample was reduced to 290 mm. In Comparative Example 3, the distance between the light source and the sample was 324 mm, so in Comparative Example 4, the light was irradiated from a closer position, i.e., a higher intensity of light was irradiated onto the sample. The conditions for Comparative Example 4 were as follows. Optical filter: Transmits wavelengths from 295nm to 780nm. Light intensity (illuminance): Light intensity for wavelengths of 300nm to 400nm. Light intensity is set using an illuminance meter with an absolute value calibration wavelength of 365nm (UIT250, UVD-S365 receiver, manufactured by Ushio Inc.). In Comparative Example 4, the process of irradiation → water spraying → condensation → water spraying → irradiation was repeated, as shown in Table 3 below.

[0086] [Table 3]

[0087] On the other hand, as Examples 2 to 7, a weather resistance test apparatus 1D with the configuration shown in Figure 5 was prepared. In this weather resistance test apparatus 1D, the light source was a xenon lamp. The conditions for Examples 2 to 7 were as follows. Note that Examples 2 to 7 were conducted using the same test apparatus but with different test conditions. Optical filter: Transmits wavelengths from 290nm to 490nm. Light intensity (illuminance): Light intensity for wavelengths of 330nm to 390nm Light intensity is set using an illuminance meter with an absolute value calibration wavelength of 365nm (UIT250, UVD-S365 receiver, manufactured by Ushio Inc.). In Examples 2-7, the process of irradiation → water spraying → condensation → water spraying → irradiation was repeated, as shown in Table 4 below.

[0088] [Table 4]

[0089] <Rating> The samples from Comparative Examples 2-4 and Examples 2-7, after weathering tests using weathering test machines, were compared by observing their appearance and evaluating the hardness changes of each layer. Comparative Example 5 included the results of a weathering test under real-world conditions (8 years). For appearance observation, a microscope or laser microscope was used to compare the presence or absence of cracks on the sample surface. The presence or absence of delamination was also checked by hand.

[0090] As shown in the table in Figure 9, in the weather resistance test of Comparative Example 5 (reference example) under real-world conditions (8 years), surface cracks and internal delamination occurred. On the other hand, in Comparative Examples 2-4, although surface cracks occurred, delamination of the decorative sheet layer, as seen under real-world conditions, did not occur. Furthermore, the cracks differed from those under real-world conditions, appearing somewhat whitish in color.

[0091] On the other hand, in Examples 2 to 7, by irradiating with xenon light, introducing oxygen gas, maintaining an oxygen partial pressure of 0.2 MPa or higher, heating to 80°C, spraying water, and maintaining a humidity of 50%, etc., it was confirmed that surface cracks and delamination of the internal layers could be induced in a short time, similar to the samples in the weathering test under real-world conditions (8 years) in Comparative Example 5. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0092] 1,1A,1B,1C,1D...Weathering test apparatus, 2...Pressurized container, 3...Sample holding section, 4,4A...Light irradiation device, 4a,40...Light source, 4b...Optical filter, 5...Gas inlet pipe (gas inlet section), 6...Humidifier, 7...Gas exhaust pipe, 8...Pressure regulator (pressure adjustment section), 9...Water spray pipe (spray section, liquid supply section), 10...Water flow regulator, 13...Temperature regulator (temperature adjustment section), 14...Detection section, 15...Control section, 16...Quartz glass plate (light transmission section), 20a...Drainage tank (drainage liquid storage section), 20b...Inlet valve, 20c...Discharge valve, 31...Pressure release valve, 35...Seal valve, 43...Collimating lens, L,L3...Light, S...Sample.

Claims

1. A step of preparing a weather resistance testing apparatus comprising a pressurized container having a light-transmitting section, a sample holding section disposed inside the pressurized container, and a light irradiation device disposed outside the pressurized container, The process of introducing a gas containing oxygen gas into the pressurized container, The steps include adjusting the air pressure inside the pressurized container, The process of humidifying the aforementioned gas, The process involves irradiating a sample held in the sample holding section with light from the light source of the light irradiation device via the light transmission section, A weather resistance test method comprising the following features.

2. In the irradiation step, the light from the light source is made into parallel light by an optical system and irradiated onto the sample. The weather resistance test method according to claim 1.

3. The light source has a power output of 15 mW / cm². ２ More than 60mW / cm ２ The following xenon lamps have the following light output: The weather resistance test method according to claim 1.

4. In the irradiation step, the sample is irradiated with light that includes at least ultraviolet light. The weather resistance test method according to claim 1.

5. In the irradiation step, the sample is irradiated with light from which at least one of ultraviolet and infrared rays with a wavelength of 290 nm or less has been removed. The weather resistance test method according to claim 1.

6. The process further comprises spraying a liquid onto the sample within the pressurized container. The weather resistance test method according to claim 1.

7. A step of detecting at least one of the amount of gas introduced, the atmospheric pressure, and the humidity of the gas, The process includes a step of controlling the weather resistance testing apparatus based on the detected value in the detection step, The weather resistance test method according to claim 1.

8. In the step of introducing the gas, the gas is introduced such that the concentration of oxygen gas relative to the total gas is 20% or more. The weather resistance test method according to claim 1.

9. In the step of introducing the gas, the gas is introduced such that the partial pressure of oxygen in the oxygen gas is 0.2 MPa or more and 0.9 MPa or less. The weather resistance test method according to claim 1.

10. The process further comprises adjusting the temperature of the sample. The weather resistance test method according to claim 1 or 6.

11. The process further includes a step of discharging waste liquid from a waste liquid storage section connected to the pressurized container. The weather resistance test method according to claim 1 or 6.

12. The process further comprises a step of condensing the aforementioned sample, The steps of irradiating with light, spraying the liquid, condensing, and spraying the liquid a second time are repeated. The weather resistance test method according to claim 6.

13. The further step is to release the pressure inside the pressurized container, In the process of releasing the pressure, the pressure is released when the air pressure inside the pressurized container exceeds the adjustable air pressure. The weather resistance test method according to claim 1 or 6.

14. The process further comprises the step of holding the sample in the sample holding section. The weather resistance test method according to claim 1.

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