This document specifies a so-called acid dew and fog test (ADF test) as an accelerated laboratory test method for simulating, by the use of artificial acidic precipitation, the damaging effects of acidic atmospheric precipitation in association with UV radiation, neutral condensed precipitation, and changing temperature and humidity. This test method is intended to be used in evaluating, on the basis of relative performance rankings, the suitability of painted materials for use in outdoor environments with acidic precipitation. It is not intended to generate the same extent of damage or the same damage pattern as in outdoor weathering, but rather to give a ranking which is similar to that which would be obtained in outdoor weathering. The method produces damage which is more homogeneous, allows fewer specimens to be exposed (and hence more rapid testing) and enables evaluation of the exposed specimens to be carried out using methods which are more objective than visual assessment.