The 2006 International Automotive Weathering Technology Seminar in Guangzhou, China, enabled the exchange of weathering research information between Chinese and American automotive manufacturers and suppliers. This was the second cooperative weathering conference organized by Q-Lab and SGS, internationally recognized authorities in laboratory weathering. The conference was sponsored by H.J. Unkel and supported by the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers.

The event drew a number of OEMs and major automotive suppliers from all over China. Speakers from the Hainan Automotive Test and Research Institute (HATRI), SAE China, GE, DuPont, Baosteel and others described recent developments in automotive weathering. Topics ranged from weatherability in the development of automotive coatings, to the evolution of automotive test methods.

Mr. Ning Bin-hua of the China National Automotive Testing Center (Xiangfan) stated, “This weathering conference was an excellent opportunity for exchanging the latest breakthroughs and methodologies available to the Chinese automotive industry. Presentations on current automotive standards, acid etch testing and weathering of plastics were especially informative and relevant to the industry.”

Mr. Ronald Roberts, director of sales of Q-Lab Corporation (USA), reviewed the evolution of automotive test methods, including the movement from hardware-based standards to performance-based standards. The Q-Sun BASF Acid Etch Test was presented by Mr. Patrick Brennan, senior vice president, Q-Lab. Brennan discussed the excellent correlation between Florida outdoor tests and gave an overview of this joint research initiative and the resulting test method.

Held at the Guangzhou Grand Royal Hotel on August 31 through September 1, the International Automotive Weathering Technology Seminar provided a technology exchange and networking forum. Attendees also had the opportunity to tour SGS’s state-of-the-art materials testing laboratory located in Science City.

SGS Group is the global leader and innovator in inspection, verification, testing and certification services. With 42,000 employees, SGS operates a network of almost 1,000 offices and laboratories around the world.

Q-Lab Corporation (formerly Q-Panel Lab Products) has been a global provider of material durability testing products for more than 50 years. They produce test substrates, along with weathering, light stability, corrosion and chip impact testers.

For more information, contact Q-Lab Corporation at 440/835.8700.