The purpose of these tests is to obtain, for a specified temperature, by means of a specified laboratory procedure, the values of the equilibrium moisture content at various levels of RH. These values are used either as means to characterize the material or as material characteristics needed as input to appropriate computer models that can simulate wetting or drying potential of individual building materials or material assemblies under specified environmental conditions.

A specified value of the equilibrium moisture content can also be used for material characterization. If this type of material characterization is called for in a material specification (for example, mineral or cellulose fiber insulation), the equilibrium at 95 ± 3 %RH shall be used.

For ease and repeatability of measurements, the measurements for characterization are performed on adsorption isotherms. Though desorption is the reverse of adsorption, most porous materials reach different equilibrium levels during these two processes. Usually, the equilibrium moisture content on the desorption isotherm is higher than that on the adsorption isotherm for the same level of RH.

1.1 This test method specifies a laboratory procedure for the determination of hygroscopic sorption isotherms of any construction materials. The method was originally developed for the ASTM Thermal Insulation committee.

1.2 For material characterization, the primary emphasis is on the adsorption isotherm (that is, sorption isotherm that describes the wetting process of the material from the oven-dry condition).

1.3 Determination of desorption isotherm, (that is, sorption isotherm that describes the drying process of a material from the state of absolute saturation with water) is performed when information on drying characteristics of construction materials is required. Typically both adsorption and desorption isotherms are required for the purpose of hygrothermal models.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.5 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.