1. Scope
1.1 This practice describes standardized procedures for the preparation, spraying, packaging, and shipping of fresh spray polyurethane foam (SPF) insulation product samples to be tested for their emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs). These procedures are applicable to both closed-cell and open-cell SPF insulation products. Potential chemical emissions of interest include blowing agents, solvents, aldehydes, amine catalysts, diisocyanates, and flame retardants. 1.2 Typically, SPF insulation samples are prepared at one location, such as a chemical manufacturing facility or a field product installation site. The prepared samples are preserved in a sealed bag then shipped to a laboratory for testing. 1.3 The spraying of SPF insulation products is only to be performed by trained individuals using professional spraying equipment under controlled conditions. The details of the spraying equipment and spraying procedures are based on industry practice and are outside of the scope of this practice. 1.4 This practice additionally describes procedures for the laboratory preparation of test specimens from open-cell and closed-cell SPF insulation product samples. These specimens are prepared in a manner that allows for testing in small-scale chambers following Guide D5116 and in micro-scale chambers by Practice D7706. 1.5 Procedures for VOC emission testing, gas sample collection and chemical analysis of VOC and SVOC emissions from SPF insulation specimens are outside of the scope of this practice. 1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard. 1.7 This standard 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 standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
This practice is needed by industry to establish safe re-entry times for occupants following spray polyurethane foam insulation application and to address other potential health concerns. This practice likely will be adopted by testing programs and building standards that address gas-phase emissions of chemicals of concern from building products.
Keywords
spray polyurethane foam insulation; chamber testing; emissions; volatile organic compounds; VOC; semi-volatile organic compounds; SVOC; diisocyanates; aldehydes; amine catalysts; blowing agents
The title and scope are in draft form and are under development within this ASTM Committee.
Citing ASTM Standards
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