How do manufacturers test the UV stability of colored polyethylene outdoor trash cans?

Manufacturers employ rigorous testing protocols to evaluate the UV stability of colored polyethylene outdoor trash cans, ensuring they withstand prolonged sun exposure without significant degradation. The primary method involves accelerated weathering tests using specialized equipment like QUV testers that simulate sunlight through fluorescent UV lamps while controlling temperature and moisture cycles. These chambers expose material samples to intense UV radiation equivalent to months or years of outdoor exposure in just weeks. Manufacturers follow ASTM standards such as G154 for testing consistency, evaluating color fade using spectrophotometers to measure Delta E values, and assessing surface cracking or gloss loss. Additionally, they conduct real-world outdoor exposure tests in high-solar regions like Arizona or Florida for validation. High-quality polyethylene resins are pre-stabilized with UV inhibitors like HALS during production, and the testing verifies both base material and pigment stability. Manufacturers document retention of physical properties through tensile strength and impact resistance tests post-UV exposure, ensuring the trash cans maintain structural integrity and color appearance throughout their warranty period.