Full definition
Standard Test Method for Rubber — Deterioration in an Air Oven — the standard accelerated aging test that predicts long-term rubber durability by exposing specimens to elevated temperatures in a circulating-air oven for specified periods, then measuring changes in physical properties (hardness, tensile strength, elongation at break) compared to unaged controls. Test conditions: temperature 70-150°C (selected based on compound and intended service), duration 22, 70, or 168 hours (longer durations for more severe evaluation). Per the Arrhenius relationship, each 10°C temperature increase approximately doubles the degradation rate, allowing approximate correlation of accelerated aging to real-time service life. Typical acceptance criteria per ASTM D2000 line call-outs: hardness change ≤±15 points, tensile change ≤-30%, elongation change ≤-50% (varies by material type and grade). ASTM D573 is universally specified in rubber purchase specifications and compound qualification testing. Per ASTM D573-04(2019). Equivalent: ISO 188. Complementary tests: ASTM D1149 (ozone resistance), ASTM D750 (rubber deterioration using an artificial weathering apparatus). Results guide material selection for applications with specific temperature and service life requirements.