Page 463 - Construction Waterproofing Handbook

ENVELOPE TESTING 12.3
ASTM
ASTM was established in 1898 as an organization for establishing standards in character-
istics and performance of materials, including some waterproofing materials, particularly
sealants and caulking. These standards are used as a basis of comparison among various
products and similar products of different manufacturers.
ASTM standards are specific test requirements described in detail to ensure that indi-
vidual materials are tested in a uniform manner. This allows for a standard of comparison
between different manufacturers or materials. Their characteristics can then be compared
for judgments of suitability in such issues as weathering, performance suitability, and max-
imum installation conditions under which a material will function.
ASTM develops test methods and performance specifications that allow comparisons
between different products and systems. Manufacturers document that their materials have
been tested according to the ASTM standards. Tests are completed by independent labo-
ratories (refer to Chap. 16), in controlled laboratory conditions. Tests are designed to test
a material’s maximum capabilities and limits (e.g., elastomeric sealant expansion limits).
Also available are accelerated weathering tests to determine if materials are suitable for
use in the extremes of weather including freeze–thaw cycling and ultraviolet weathering.
These laboratory tests are typically applied to specific materials themselves (e.g., sealants,
coatings) but not to the composite envelope systems, transitions, or termination detailing.
The frequently referred-to ASTM testing, adaptable to waterproofing materials, is sum-
marized in Table 12.1.

Other testing agencies
Laboratory analysis is completed by the National Bureau of Standards, a federal govern-
ment agency. The most commonly referred to federal specifications for waterproofing

TABLE 12.1 ASTM Testing for Waterproofing Products

ASTM Test number Test type
D-412 Tensile strength
D-412 Elongation
E-96 Moisture vapor transmission
D-822 Weathering resistance
C-501 Abrasion resistance
E-154 Puncture resistance
D-71 Specific gravity
D-93 Flash point
D-2240 Shore A hardness
E-42 Accelerated aging
E-119 Fire endurance
D-1149 Ozone resistance and weathering
C-67 Water repellency
E-514 Water permanence of masonry
C-109 Compressive strength
C-348 Flexural strength
D-903 Adhesion