Introducing
Strong sunlight, especially ultraviolet (UV) radiation, slowly damages varnish and paint coatings, making them fade, crack, and lose their protective properties. This shortens the lifetime of many outdoor products – from buildings to vehicles.
Our project is working on a fast and reliable way to predict how long coatings will last under real outdoor conditions. Instead of waiting years for natural ageing, we use advanced laboratory tests and computer modelling to speed up the process.
With the right science, we can make outdoor materials more durable – and more sustainable.
By combining modern testing techniques with innovative prediction methods, we aim to help manufacturers design coatings that last longer, stay stronger, and protect better.
The PULSE-UV project offers a faster, cost-effective way
to predict coating service life.
By combining accelerated UV ageing tests in the lab with modelling based on the superposition principle, the methodology replaces years of outdoor weathering with rapid, reliable predictions.
ABOUT
The strategic aim
The strategic aim of the project is to generate foreground and technological knowledge and a strong research capacity in the physics and mechanics of polymers, including through collaboration with the business sector and international cooperation.
The project’s specific aim
The project’s specific aim is the development of a methodology for accelerated prediction of the long-term UV stability of industrial varnish and paint coatings.
Activities planned within the project
Research Strategy
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Apply the superposition principle to predict the long-term UV stability of industrial varnish and paint coatings.
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Model multilayer coatings using the properties of individual layers.
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Validate predictions by comparing accelerated ageing test results with outdoor exposure data.
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Refine models to improve accuracy for different coating compositions and service environments.
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Reduce time and cost by replacing lengthy outdoor tests with accelerated laboratory testing and predictive modelling.
Progress of the project
April
2026
MICROHARDNESS TESTS PERFORMED AFTER UV AGEING
Following UV ageing tests under different irradiation power levels, microhardness measurements using the Vickers method were conducted. The obtained results will be used to evaluate the influence of UV exposure on the mechanical properties of the coating system.
UV AGEING TESTS CONDUCTED AT INCREASED POWER
UV ageing tests were conducted under increased irradiation power. The colour change curve was obtained to evaluate the response of the coating system under intensified ageing conditions.
March
2026
UV AGEING TESTS CONDUCTED AT DECREASED POWER
UV ageing tests were conducted under decreased irradiation power. The colour change curve was obtained to assess coating behaviour under reduced ageing intensity and to support further comparative analysis.
UV AGEING TESTS CONDUCTED AT REFERENCE POWER
UV ageing tests were conducted under reference irradiation power. The colour change curve was obtained and used as a baseline for comparison with the results obtained under modified ageing conditions.
January
2026
February
2026
December
2025
FORMULATIONS AND TESTING PLAN FINALIZED
The selected coating formulations were specified and prepared for testing. The detailed testing plan was agreed upon with all project partners to ensure coordinated experimental work in the next project stages.
November
2025
FIRST TESTING CAMPAIGN COMPLETED
The first series of samples was tested. Mechanical testing, UV ageing, spectral analysis, and data processing were performed to obtain initial insights into coating behaviour under accelerated ageing conditions.
October
2025
TESTING SETUP PREPARED
Sample repeatability was achieved, and suitable substrates for testing were selected. All testing equipment was calibrated and prepared to ensure reliable and reproducible experimental results in the upcoming project stages.
September
2025
FIRST SAMPLES PREPARED
From the selected coating formulations, the first series of samples suitable for testing has been prepared. These samples will be used in upcoming experiments to evaluate the physical and mechanical properties of the coatings and their UV stability.
PARTICIPATION IN EUROPEAN RESEARCHERS’ NIGHT
The project team took part in the European Researchers’ Night 2025 event, engaging with the public through interactive activities. Visitors explored how UV radiation affects material properties and took part in quizzes designed to increase awareness of materials science and the project’s goals.
August
2025
FORMULATIONS selected
For the experimental part of the project, the coating material formulations to be tested were selected. These formulations will be used to prepare identical samples for subsequent testing of their physical properties.
July
2025
START of the project
During the kick-off meeting, the project team discussed short- and medium-term plans. Each working group presented its vision for testing and theoretical work, leading to the development of a unified experimental strategy.
CONTACT
Dr. Olga Bulderberga
Email: olga.bulderberga@lu.lv
Institute for Mechanics of Materials
University of Latvia
Jelgavas street 3, Riga, LV-1004, Latvia
Project implementation period: 01.07.2025-30.06.2028.
Scientific leader of the project: Dr. Andrey Aniskevich.
This material has been co-funded by the European Union. Its contents are the sole responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union or the European Commission.
Leading partner:
University of Latvia
Institute for Mechanics of Materials
Institute of Atomic Physics and Spectroscopy
Project partners:
"Rīgas laku un krāsu rūpnīca" Ltd.
"EkoKompozit" Ltd.
Project ID Nr.1.1.1.3/1/24/A/004
