The SWAAT test is an accelerated life test performed within a chamber.

Test specimens are placed in an enclosed chamber, and exposed to a changing climate that comprises of the following 2 part repeating cycle. 30 minutes exposure to a continuous indirect spray of acidified (pH 2.8 to 3.0) synthetic seawater solution, which falls-out on to the specimens at a rate of 1.0 to 2.0 ml/80cm²/hour. This is followed by 90 minutes exposure to a high humidity climate of above 98%RH. The entire test cycle is at a constant chamber temperature of +49C (may be reduced to +24 to +35C for organically coated specimens). The number of cycle repeats and therefore the test duration is variable.