5.1 Solar-energy transmittance and reflectance are important factors in the heat admission through fenestration, most commonly through glass or plastics. (See Appendix X3.) These methods provide a means of measuring these factors under fixed conditions of incidence and viewing. While the data may be of assistance to designers in the selection and specification of glazing materials, the solar-energy transmittance and reflectance are not sufficient to define the rate of heat transfer without information on other important factors. The methods have been found practical for both transparent and translucent materials as well as for those with transmittances reduced by highly reflective coatings. Method B is particularly suitable for the measurement of transmittance of inhomogeneous, patterned, or corrugated materials since the transmittance is averaged over a large area.

1.1 These test methods cover the measurement of solar energy transmittance and reflectance (terrestrial) of materials in sheet form. Method A, using a spectrophotometer, is applicable for both transmittance and reflectance and is the referee method. Method B is applicable only for measurement of transmittance using a pyranometer in an enclosure and the sun as the energy source. Specimens for Method A are limited in size by the geometry of the spectrophotometer while Method B requires a specimen 0.61 m² (2 ft²). For the materials studied by the drafting task group, both test methods give essentially equivalent results.

1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, 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.