ASTM Proposed Test Method for Evaluating Side-Bonding Potential of Wood Coatings addresses “side-bonding,” or “panelization” of wood flooring. Chemist Mark Algaier, vice president, R&D, Hillyard Industries, St. Joseph, Mo., describes this phenomenon as “the irregular movement of wood-flooring caused by various site conditions—slab cracks, sub-floor shifting, improper wood acclimation, improper climate control, etc. The individual strips of wood act like a ‘panel’ rather than expanding or contracting individually with the changes in relative humidity. This movement results in a separation bordering the panel.”

“Side-bonding, a specific cause of panelization,” he continues, “can occur when the sealer/ finish concentrates in the cracks between wood pieces, effectively gluing them together.” Algaier goes on to say the draft test method, which “evaluates side-bonding potential of coatings,” is useful to “eliminate or minimize panelization caused by coatings.”

Developed to assist manufacturers and users of floor coatings, it offers:
--Two mechanical properties tests that quantitatively determine cohesive strength; and
--Two qualitative wood floor simulation tests that visually determine side-bonding
potential.

The test method was previously developed in industry and brought to ASTM to be further refined. It is currently being reviewed by a task group, chaired by Algaier, in Subcommittee D07.01 on Fundamental Test Methods and Properties under Committee D07 on Wood. The group includes raw materials suppliers, coatings manufacturers, and others.

For further technical information, contact Mark Algaier, Hillyard Industries, 302 N. 4th St., St. Joseph, MO 64502 (800/360-5158 ext. 2450). For Committee D07 meeting or membership details, contact manager Steve Mawn, ASTM (610/832-9726). //

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