Arrhenius function

n. A mathematical formula that can be used to predict the rate of deterioration of physical materials under given environmental conditions.

Notes

By knowing the rate at which materials change, it is possible to understand how those materials age and to predict the useful life of the materials. Note, however, that the function is based on assumptions about usefulness. A prediction on the longevity of paper based on brittleness indicates only the period of time it will take to become brittle as defined. The information on the paper may continue to be legible, and the paper itself will likely have some remaining integrity. Given the inherent assumptions, some question the value of accelerated aging tests. See Imaging materials - Test method for Arrhenius-type predictions (ISO 18924).

Citations

Porck 2000, p. 13–14 The argument for the use of elevated temperatures in artificial aging relies on the fact that in general a reaction proceeds faster at higher temperatures, which makes it possible to observe its effects, in this case the loss of paper strength, more quickly than at room temperature. Such artificial aging experiments are sometimes called 'Arrhenius-tests'.