Certain substances in adhesives may cause discoloration of vinyl flooring. This test method provides a means of measuring the discolorations that may occur in the vinyl as a result of contact with these adhesives. Vinyl flooring specimens, either contacting or not contacting the adhesive, are exposed to heat and UVA light to accelerate discoloration. By means of colorimeter or spectrophotometer, color differences between exposed specimens are accurately measured. Therefore, instrumental evaluation rather than personal subjective evaluation is used to determine the amount of discoloration an adhesive may produce in vinyl flooring. This test method does not attempt to simulate or duplicate the heat and sunlight conditions that may impact vinyl floor coverings while in service.

1.1 This test method describes procedures and instrumentation for accurately measuring the degree of staining that may occur in vinyl flooring as a result of its contact with adhesives. Measured color differences between vinyl flooring specimens contacting the adhesive and not contacting the adhesive are expressed in the CIELAB Color-Scale System.

1.2 This test method provides for visual evaluation of staining which may occur when vinyl flooring contacts adhesives.

1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

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.