Standard Test Methods for Water Vapor Retarders Used in Contact with Earth Under Concrete Slabs, on Walls, or as Ground Cover

1.1 These test methods cover the determination of the properties of flexible membranes to be used as vapor retarders in contact with earth under concrete slabs, against walls, or as ground cover in crawl spaces. The test methods are applicable primarily to plastic films, and other flexible sheets. The materials are not intended to be subjected to sustained hydrostatic pressure. The procedures simulate conditions to which vapor retarders may be subjected prior to and during installation, and in service.

1.2 The test methods included are:

Section Water-Vapor Transmission of Material as Received 7 Water-Vapor Transmission after Wetting and Drying and after Long-Time Soaking 8 Tensile Strength 9 Resistance to Puncture 10 Resistance to Plastic Flow and Elevated Temperature 11 Effect of Low Temperatures on Flexibility 12 Resistance to Deterioration from Organisms and Substances in Contacting Soil 13 Resistance to Deterioration from Petroleum Vehicles for Soil Poisons 14 Resistance to Deterioration from Exposure to Ultraviolet Light 15 Resistance to Flame Spread 16 Report 17

1.3 The values stated in acceptable metric units shall be considered standard. The values in parentheses are for information only.

1.4 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.