1. Scope
1.1 This practice describes the quality control performance checks for small chamber product emissions testing and methods to assess the uncertainty associated with product emission results. It is intended to assist manufacturers, product testers, product labelers and product purchasers who make and/or interpret product emissions measurement results. 1.2 This practice includes specific instructions for conducting method performance checks to determine variability of test procedures within and between emissions test laboratories. It also provides the steps of the International Organization for Standardizations (ISO) Guide to the Expression of Uncertainty in Measurement (GUM) for evaluating and estimating the uncertainty associated with product emission results. Example calculations of uncertainty are provided. In lieu of a detailed discussion of statistical theory and mathematical development, several references are provided. 1.3 Based on current techniques and proficiency test methods, this practice describes the level of uncertainty expected for different steps of the emissions testing process. When data are not available, a list of potential sources of uncertainty is provided as well as a qualitative checklist of quality assurance tasks. 1.4 This practice is intended for use with ASTM and other standards for measuring VOC emission rates from building materials and products using small chambers. While this practice describes different steps of the emissions testing process and associated uncertainties, it does not describe the determination of emission rates. 1.5 This practice does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this practice to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
This practice will provide guidance to assess the uncertainty associated with chamber emissions measurements. Improved understanding of emission measurement uncertainty through method validation and performance checks has the potential to strengthen the usefulness of test results by allowing the comparison of measurement results, establishing traceability, improving decision-making regarding product labeling, and obtaining information to improve test methods. This practice is intended to assist building product manufacturers, product testers, product labelers and product purchasers who make and/or interpret product emissions measurement results.
Keywords
indoor air; volatile organic compounds; chamber testing; emissions; measurement uncertainty
The title and scope are in draft form and are under development within this ASTM Committee.
Citing ASTM Standards
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