What is Chemical Resistance?
Chemical resistance testing evaluates the resistance of materials to chemical media. In automotive applications, materials come into contact with various fluids – from cleaning agents and fuels to bodily fluids.
Test Method
Samples are exposed to various test media for defined periods at elevated temperature:
• Application method: Drop application, immersion, or cotton swab contact
• Exposure time: 1–24 hours (depending on medium and standard)
• Temperature: 23°C (RT), 40°C, 70°C or higher
Evaluation: Gloss change, color change ΔE*, swelling, softening, cracking, surface alteration.
Chemical Resistance According to OEM Standards
The following table shows all OEM-specific standards for chemical resistance covered by ASO Laboratory:
| Manufacturer | Standard | Designation |
|---|---|---|
| BMW Group | AA-0055 | Chemical Resistance |
| General Motors Worldwide | GMW 14334 | Chemical Resistance |
| Publisher | TSH 1509G | Chemical Resistance Paint |
| International Organization for Standardization (ISO) | ISO 16750-5 | Chemical Resistance |
| Nissan Motor Co. | NES M0133 | Chemical Resistance |
| Stellantis/Opel | KEUR 00824-846 | Chemical Resistance |
| Stellantis/Opel | KEUR 00824-849 | Chemical Resistance |
| German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) | VDA 621-412 | Chemical Resistance |
| Volkswagen Group (VW/Audi/Porsche/SEAT/Škoda) | PV 3983 | Media Resistance |
| Volvo Car Corporation | VCS 1026,81779 | Chemical Resistance |
| Volvo/Scania | STD 501 | Chemical Resistance |
Frequently Asked Questions About Chemical Resistance
Which chemicals are typically tested?
Typical test media in the automotive sector: sunscreen, insect spray, hand cream, disinfectant, fuel (gasoline, diesel), brake fluid, antifreeze, engine oil, and various cleaning agents.
How is the result evaluated?
According to defined criteria: gloss change (ISO 2813), color difference ΔE* (CIE Lab), softening (Shore hardness), swelling (mass increase), cracking, and visual evaluation on a grading scale.
Why is chemical resistance important in the automotive sector?
Vehicle surfaces come into daily contact with aggressive substances: sunscreen on steering wheels and gear knobs, cleaning agents during vehicle cleaning, body perspiration on seats. Material failure leads to complaints and warranty claims.
Your Chemical Resistance Testing at ASO Laboratory
ASO Laboratory performs chemical resistance testing according to all common OEM standards. Our DAkkS accreditation to DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025 guarantees standards-compliant results.
Contact us for a quote – we will advise you on optimal sample planning and test scope.