Testing acc. to STD 429-0001: Odour of trim materials in vehicles
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Our test laboratory performs odour testing of materials and components used in vehicle interiors according to Volvo STD 429-0001 as an accredited procedure with short turnaround times – urgent orders are also possible.
The method is used for the sensory assessment of volatile constituents that become perceptible as odour after defined temperature and humidity exposure. Materials from the vehicle interior as well as components that come into contact with the air supplied to the passenger compartment are tested. These include, for example, leather, artificial leather and coated fabrics, plastics, films, textiles, foams, insulation materials and carpets. The test is therefore particularly relevant for materials and components used in automotive interiors.
From a technical perspective, the method belongs to the FILK testing field Odour within the broader field of Emissions + Odour.
Classification and related test methods
Volvo STD 429-0001 is closely related methodologically to VDA 270. The Volvo standard corresponds to variants A2, B2 and C2 of VDA 270, but extends the method by an additional set of specimens tested in a vessel without water.
STD 429-0001 was introduced as a further development of the former Volvo STD 1027,2712. In particular, the requirements for conditioning the test specimens were changed. Another closely related method is Volvo VCS 1027,2729, which is likewise based on STD 1027,2712 and uses the same basic principle of odour assessment under the influence of temperature and humidity.
Test procedure according to Volvo STD 429-0001
The amount of sample used is specified according to the type and extent of use of the material or component in the vehicle. The standard distinguishes between small parts, medium-sized components and materials used over large surface areas.
The samples are exposed to a defined temperature in odour-neutral glass vessels. Each material is tested both under humid conditions in a vessel containing deionised water and in a second test vessel without water. Unless another test temperature is specified, the exposure is carried out for 24 hours at 40 °C.
Immediately afterwards, the headspace is assessed sensorially by trained assessors. Odour behaviour is evaluated on a six-grade scale ranging from “not noticeable” to “unbearable”. This allows the odour intensity of different materials and components used in vehicle interiors to be compared.
Further tests according to specifications issued by Volvo can be found on our Volvo page. An overview of Volvo and other vehicle manufacturers, associations and standardisation organisations is available under Tests by publisher.
