The 2006 International Automotive Weathering Technology Seminar in Guangzhou, China, held August 31-September 1, 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 other organizations described recent developments in automotive weathering. Topics ranged from weatherability in the development of automotive coatings to the evolution of automotive test methods.

Ronald Roberts, director of sales of Q-Lab Corp. (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 Patrick Brennan, senior vice president of 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.

Attendees also had the opportunity to tour SGS's state-of-the-art materials testing laboratory located in Science City.

For more information, call Q-Lab Corp. at 440.835-8700.