ASTM D 3424 : 1998

1.1 These test methods cover the determination of the relative lightfastness and weatherability of printed matter under the following seven conditions, of which two involve exposure to natural daylight and five involve accelerated procedures in the laboratory:

1.1.1 Test Method 1--Daylight behind window glass,

1.1.2 Test Method 2--Outdoor weathering,

1.1.3 Test Method 3--Xenon-arc apparatus with window glass filters to simulate daylight behind window glass,

1.1.4 Test Method 4--Xenon-arc apparatus with water spray and daylight filters to simulate outdoor weathering,

1.1.5 Test Method 5--Enclosed carbon-arc apparatus without water spray,

1.1.6 Test Method 6Enclosed carbon-arc apparatus with water spray, and

1.1.7 Test Method 7--Fluorescent lamp apparatus to simulate indoor fluorescent lighting in combination with window-filtered daylight.

1.2 These test methods require that a suitable print or other control (reference standard) be run along with the test sample. Color changes due to conditions of exposure may be evaluated by visual examination or instrumental measurement.

1.3 These test methods are applicable to prints on any flat substrate including paper, paperboard, metallic foil, metal plate, and plastic film, and are produced by any printing process including letterpress, offset lithography, flexography, gravure, and silk screen.

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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific hazard statements, see Section 8.