Evaluation of the impacts of four weathering methods on two acrylic paints: showcasing distinctions and particularities

Abstract
Two commercial waterborne wood acrylic paints were applied to wood samples and the weathering resistance of samples was tested using four different weathering methods: outdoor exposure in Arizona (USA), Florida (USA), and the province of Quebec (Canada), and accelerated weathering in a QUV (fluorescent) weatherometer. Degradation was characterised by colorimetric and FTIR analyses. FTIR confirmed the importance of paint composition in the resistance of samples to weathering. Polymer sensitivity to UV radiation was clearly evident. An interpretation of discoloration in terms of either the energy received by the samples or the length of exposure is presented. Strong differences existed between the four weathering methods. Particularities of each method are discussed and recommendations regarding their application for effective testing are proposed. Overall, in addition to accelerated weathering tests, we conclude that it is necessary to test paints in an end-use environment for accurate assessment of their likely performance. This study confirms the multifactorial aspect of the weathering process.