ASTM C1878-19

3.1 Vapor retarders used on thermal insulation can be exposed to liquid water in normal usage. Some cannot tolerate such exposure without suffering damage. Others are designed to withstand intermittent or occasional exposure in their intended indoor usage. Still others are intended for outdoor applications and exposure to the elements. (not covered by this standard).

3.2 This test is used to evaluate products or materials that are used where exposure to liquid water on the surfaces on an intermittent or occasional basis is possible. Such products would be expected to absorb very little water, if any, in this test.

3.3 In the test, the specimen is exposed to a specified volume of water over a given exposure area, with a resultant head pressure.

3.4 The amount of water absorbed by a specimen is measured in this test. This is used to characterize the water resistance of the specimen. The less water absorbed, the more water resistant the surface is considered to be.

1.1 This test method details a procedure for the determination of the surface water resistance of a vapor retarder by measurement of the quantity of water absorbed in a specified time by the service-exposed surface of a vapor retarder intended for use on thermal insulation.

1.2 This test method covers vapor retarders that are expected to withstand intermittent or occasional exposure to liquid water on the exposed side. Examples of this exposure are condensation and light rain during installation before a structure is enclosed.

1.3 This method does not cover vapor retarders intended for exposure to the elements in outdoor applications.

1.4 This method does not cover thermal insulation products that also act as vapor retarders, such as elastomeric foam and cellular glass.

1.5 In the test, the specimen is exposed to a specified volume of water over a given exposure area, with a resultant head pressure.

1.6 The test method is based on Test Method D3285 (withdrawn), the so-called “Cobb” test used for paper.

1.7 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard.

1.8 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.9 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.