5.1 It is known that solar radiation contributes to the degradation of sealants in exterior building joints. The use of a laboratory accelerated weathering machine with actinic radiation, moisture and heat appears to be a feasible means to give indications of early degradation by the appearance of sealant cracking. However, simulated weather factors in combination with extension may produce more severe degradation than weather factors only. Therefore, the effect of the weathering test is made more sensitive by the addition of the bending of the specimen at cold temperature.

1.1 This test method covers a laboratory procedure for determining the effects of accelerated weathering on cured-in-place elastomeric joint sealants (single- and multicomponent) for use in building construction.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are for information only.

1.3 The committee with jurisdiction over this standard is not aware of any comparable standards published by other ASTM committees or other organizations.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.