4.1 The test methods are intended to be rapid empirical tests which have been found to be useful in the relative comparison of materials having the same nominal thickness.

Note 2: When the plastic material contains plasticizer, loss from the plastic is assumed to be primarily plasticizer. The effect of moisture is considered to be negligible.

4.2 Correlation with ultimate application for various plastic materials shall be determined by the user.

1.1 These test methods cover the determination of volatile loss from a plastic material under defined conditions of time and temperature, using activated carbon as the immersion medium.

1.2 Two test methods are covered as follows:

1.2.1 Test Method A, Direct Contact with Activated Carbon—In this test method the plastic material is in direct contact with the carbon. This test method is particularly useful in the rapid comparison of a large number of plastic specimens.

1.2.2 Test Method B, Wire Cage—This test method prescribes the use of a wire cage, which prevents direct contact between the plastic material and the carbon. By eliminating the direct contact, the migration of the volatile components to the surrounding carbon is minimized and loss by volatilization is more specifically measured.

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

1.4 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.

Note 1: This standard and ISO 176 address the same subject matter, but differ in technical content.