ASTM to Introduce an Adhesive Standard to Test PVC Flooring Materials for Plasticizer Migration

A new ASTM International standard will provide a qualitative means to determine the potential effect of plasticizers contained within polyvinylchloride floor covering materials on a specific adhesive.

ASTM D7888, Practice for Evaluating Adhesive and the Effects of Plasticizer Found Within Polyvinylchloride-Backed Floor Coverings, was developed by Subcommittee D14.10 on Working Properties, part of ASTM International Committee D14 on Adhesives. The new standard focuses specifically on issues related to plasticizer migration.

"Solid and luxury vinyl flooring materials, which include PVC modular and broadloom carpet, have been the fastest growing segment of the flooring industry for years and continue to show strong growth," says Larry Press, director of flooring, Helmitin Adhesives Inc., and a member of D14. "ASTM D7888 will assist in providing the assurance that vinyl and PVC containing flooring materials can be installed as a green product without the worries of failure specific to plasticizer migration."

Press also notes that ASTM D7888 will also eventually be incorporated into a new floor covering adhesive standard that is currently in the planning stages. All interested parties are invited to participate in the standards developing activities of D14.

About ASTM

ASTM International, formerly known as the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) is a globally recognized leader in the development and delivery of international voluntary consensus standards. Today, some 12,000 ASTM standards are used around the world to improve product quality, enhance safety, facilitate market access and trade, and build consumer confidence. ASTMs leadership in international standards development is driven by the contributions of its members: more than 30,000 of the worlds top technical experts and business professionals representing 150 countries. Working in an open and transparent process and using ASTMs advanced electronic infrastructure, ASTM members deliver the test methods, specifications, guides, and practices that support industries and governments worldwide.

Source: ASTM