3.1 Resilient floor covering is made by fusing polymer materials under heat or pressure, or both, in various manufacturing and decorating processes. The polymer material may be compounded with plasticizers, stabilizers, fillers, and other ingredients for processability and product performance characteristics. The formulation of the compound can be varied considerably depending on the desired performance characteristics and methods of processing. See Practice D794 for additional significance and use information.

3.1.1 Heat stability, which is resistance to discoloration from heat, is a basic requirement for processing and functional use.

3.1.2 This test method provides a means of measuring the amount of color change in flooring products when subjected to elevated temperatures over a period of time (functional use of the flooring product).

3.2 This test method is not intended to be a means of predicting the amount of color change that occurs during processing (manufacture).

3.3 This test method specifies that a sample is subjected to 158°F ± 2°F (70°C ± 1°C) for 7 days, and the color difference is measured by a spectrophotometer and expressed as ΔE* units.

Note 1: It is the intent that this test method be used for testing heat stability performance properties to be referenced in resilient flooring specifications.

1.1 This test method covers a procedure for determining the resistance of resilient floor covering to color change from exposure to elevated temperature over a specified period of time.

1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.4 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.