On the use of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and ultraviolet spectroscopy to assess the weathering performance of isolated clearcoats from different chemical families

A Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy spectrum analysis technique has been developed to compare the photooxidation resistance of clearcoats from different chemical families. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy measurements of clearcoat photooxidation resistance are combined with ultraviolet spectroscopy measurements of ultraviolet light absorber additive longevity to produce a clear picture of clearcoat weathering performance. Benchmark results are presented for 23 coatings from a wide range of chemical families. All measurements were carried out under 0.45 W/m(2) borosilicate inner and outer filtered xenon are SAE J1960 JUN89 accelerated exposure. (C) 1998 Published by Elsevier Science Limited. All rights reserved.