Tropical Forest Weathering

The Tropical Forest is a localized micro-environment that accelerates algae growth at a faster rate than standard outdoor weathering. Since microbial resistance of paint and paint films is a very important characteristic of such paints, considerable attention has been given in developing a field test that provides the optimal conditions for the accelerated growth of algae. In turn, companies that need to test their algicides in paint and paint films, can do so in a much shorter period of time.

The following brief description of our Tropical Forest site will enable you to understand how we can accelerate growth. Specimens are exposed on a standard aluminum frame with a vertical North orientation. Specimens should ideally have a wood or styrofoam substrate that will also allow for water capillary action from the sample sitting on the test rack. Once the specimens are on exposure, the micro-environment has a natural canopy of native foliage that surrounds the test specimens allowing only shaded light and lower ambient temperatures throughout the day and night hours. Since the inception of our Tropical Forest site a few years ago, we now have an area that is green with algae covering tree limbs, surrounding rocks, and our test racks. In essence, we have what we consider ideal conditions for testing the biological deterioration of paint films.

In conclusion, we recommend this type of outdoor weathering for companies that are testing for algae resistance. Exposure time has been reduced, which leads to lower exposure costs, and real-time results that you can depend on.