Weathering Data

The development of heat reflective foils under the Hornschuch COOL COLOR brand generated a range of colours, patterns and designs which gives a significant increase in weathering performance, UV resistance and colour hold over conventional decorative foils.The fact that the inherent temperature of the foiled surface is lower than conventional foiled surfaces results in greater resistance to polymer degradation and hence significantly longer colours hold.

Extensive measurement of weathering performance was undertaken, both natural and accelerated.

ACCELERATED
Weathering programmes based on 2 distinct scenarios were undertaken:

MODERATE CLIMATE (M)
Xenon test apparatus to ISO 4892-2
Total radiation 8GJ/m2 (4000 hours)
Weather Cycle: Water spray 18 minutes, Dry 102 minutes.

HOT CLIMATE (S)
Xenon test apparatus to ISO 4892-2
Total radiation 12GJ/m2 (6000 hours)
Weather Cycle: Water spray 6 minutes, Dry 114 minutes.

The tests were undertaken both internally and by an independent party (SKZ) to RAL M and S specification which would also comply with an equivalent BBA requirement. Refer to graphs which illustrate the results of a range of Cool Color foils. All foil types exceed the requirements of the M (moderate climate) and S (hot climate).

In most cases the foils would meet a 10 year natural exposure in Central and Eastern Europe with no visible change in colour.

NATURAL
Several test centres were used.
Germany and Turkey: Simulates temperate Central and Eastern European moderate climates.
Arizona: Hot and Dry
Florida: Hot and Humid

All foils performed to a level which confirmed that a combination of high UV intensity with low or high humidity did not adversely affect the colour fastness or surface degradation.

As a result both 3D Laminates and Hornschuch were confident in being able to offer a comprehensive 10 year guarantee covering the weathering, UV resistance and colour fastness of the foil both before and after vacuum forming of the sheet.

HEAT REFLECTANCE
NOTE: The background information on the mechanisms of the heat reflective performance is fully explained in the 3D Technical Specification. However practical demonstrations are highly recommended presented by 3D personnel to fully explain the technology.