This test method measures the amount of formaldehyde that is released from a coating under laboratory conditions. The amount of formaldehyde available for release from a coating may vary depending on composition, and may decrease as the sample ages.

This test method may be used for typical air dried paints where water is the major volatile material. The useful range is estimated to be from 10 ppm to 1000 ppm formaldehyde in the sample.

Significant amounts of other volatile aldehydes, such as acetaldehyde, are reported to cause an interference with the determination of formaldehyde. This limitation is not expected to cause a problem for most common water reducible coatings.

Samples containing organic solvents as the major volatile component have not been evaluated and are not expected to be compatible with this test method.

1.1 This test method may be used to measure the amount of formaldehyde evolved from air-dry water reducible coatings utilizing latices, resin emulsions, or water reducible alkyds. The results may be used to define the “free” formaldehyde evolved from a sample under controlled laboratory conditions.

1.2 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.