ASTM International Announces Retractions and Strengthened Peer Review Safeguards
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Jan 30, 2026
ASTM International today announced a series of retractions in its Journal of Testing and Evaluation, following a comprehensive internal investigation into irregularities found in several guest-edited special issues.
The investigation began when an ASTM publishing partner detected unusual peer-review patterns in a special issue. A subsequent broader review confirmed that the peer-review process in multiple guest-edited special issues published between 2019 and 2024 had been compromised. As a result, ASTM has retracted 147 articles to date and anticipates issuing at least one additional batch as the review concludes. The retractions are found in the November 2019, January 2023, May 2023, and May 2024 issues.
This investigation reflects ASTM International’s responsibility to correct the scholarly record. The organization will continue to take the decisive and transparent action essential to maintaining trust in scientific publishing.
In response to the findings, ASTM has implemented a series of preventive measures, including:
The Journal of Testing and Evaluation is part of the ASTM Digital Library, which has been revitalized in recent years with a new platform and an expanded publishing program. These enhancements reflect ASTM’s ongoing investment in quality, innovation, and service to the research community.
ASTM recognizes that the integrity of peer review is essential to scholarly communication. Retractions are never taken lightly, but they are necessary to maintain a reliable scientific record. ASTM remains committed to prevention, accountability, and continued transparency.
Media Inquiries: Gavin O’Reilly, tel +1.610.832.9618; goreilly@astm.org
Release #13046
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