5.1 When a box becomes wet, the performance of the box and its closure are reduced. It is desirable to have box closure methods that retain an ability to keep the box closed when wet. Sealing or reinforcing methods sometimes are useful to improve performance of wet boxes and closures. Water resistance is sometimes a regulatory or contractual requirement.

5.2 A test result indicating that a box closure tape or adhesive is soluble or dispersible in water is an indication that its function will be significantly impaired when wet. A test result that does not indicate solubility or dispersibility does not necessarily ensure that the bonding ability will be satisfactory when wet or that the performance of the box closure will be satisfactory when wet. Package performance testing described in the water resistance section of Practice D1974 is useful to further investigate the effects of water on package and closure functions.

1.1 This test method covers a procedure to determine the water resistance of an adhesive or tape as measured by the amount of tape or adhesive dissolved or dispersed in water.

1.2 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.

1.3 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.