4.1 This test method provides basic engineering data that may be used to determine the amount of VOC delivered to the inlet of a VOC control device. The procedure is useful for establishing the quantity of VOC that is evolved from the coating in the flash zone or bake oven and available to be incinerated, although the same procedure can be followed when other forms of VOC abatement are used.

4.2 The total amount of VOC removed from the process by the VOC control device is a function of the amount available as given by this test method combined with the VOC removal efficiency of the control device.

1.1 This test method describes the determination of the amount of volatile organic compound (VOC) released from applied waterborne automotive coatings that is available for delivery to a VOC control device. The determination is accomplished by measuring the weight loss of a freshly coated test panel subject to evaporation or drying and by analysis of the VOC or water content in the coating.

1.2 This test method is applicable to the VOC released from application and baking operations after the paint has been applied in a simulation of a production process, or in an actual production facility.

1.3 Symbols and calculations from several other methods that determine VOC: Practice D3960, EPA 450/3-88-018 and EPA 450/3-84-019 have been incorporated into this test method. The majority of symbols and calculations used in this test method are unique because this test method deals uniquely with differences in weight of applied paint samples that have been subject to drying, curing or solvent addition.

Note 1: Training and knowledge of the product being evaluated are essential for obtaining meaningful data from this test method. It is recommended that several practice runs be performed, and the laboratories repeatability evaluated before performing this test on the test samples.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

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 whoever uses this standard to consult and establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to its use.

1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.