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.

Designation: D3575 − 20

Standard Test Methods for

Flexible Cellular Materials Made from Olefin Polymers1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D3575; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

1. Scope* D412 Test Methods for Vulcanized Rubber and Thermoplas-

1.1 These test methods apply to flexible closed cell materi- tic Elastomers—Tension
als made from olefin polymers or blends of olefin polymers D624 Test Method for Tear Strength of Conventional Vul-
with other polymers as defined in Section 3. canized Rubber and Thermoplastic Elastomers
D883 Terminology Relating to Plastics
1.2 These test methods cover test procedures only. Product D1056 Specification for Flexible Cellular Materials—
requirements are outlined in Specification D4819.
Sponge or Expanded Rubber
1.3 Unless specifically stated otherwise, by agreement be- D1349 Practice for Rubber—Standard Conditions for Test-
tween the purchaser and supplier, all tests shall be performed in ing
accordance with the test methods specified in this standard. D1596 Test Method for Dynamic Shock Cushioning Char-
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the acteristics of Packaging Material
standard. D1667 Specification for Flexible Cellular Materials—Poly
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the (Vinyl Chloride) Foam (Closed-Cell)
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the D2863 Test Method for Measuring the Minimum Oxygen
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro- Concentration to Support Candle-Like Combustion of
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter- Plastics (Oxygen Index)
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. D4819 Specification for Flexible Cellular Materials Made
From Polyolefin Plastics
NOTE 1—This standard and ISO 7214 address the same subject matter, E177 Practice for Use of the Terms Precision and Bias in
but differ in technical content.
ASTM Test Methods
1.6 This international standard was developed in accor- E456 Terminology Relating to Quality and Statistics
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard- E691 Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the Determine the Precision of a Test Method
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom- E2935 Practice for Conducting Equivalence Testing in
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
Laboratory Applications
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
F355 Test Method for Impact Attenuation of Playing Surface
2. Referenced Documents Systems, Other Protective Sport Systems, and Materials
Used for Athletics, Recreation and Play
2.1 ASTM Standards:2
C177 Test Method for Steady-State Heat Flux Measure- 3. Terminology
ments and Thermal Transmission Properties by Means of
the Guarded-Hot-Plate Apparatus 3.1 Terms used in this standard are defined in accordance
C518 Test Method for Steady-State Thermal Transmission with Terminology D883, unless otherwise specified. For terms
Properties by Means of the Heat Flow Meter Apparatus relating to precision, bias and associated issues, the terms used
in this standard are defined in accordance with Terminology
E456.
1
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D20 on
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
Plastics and are the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D20.22 on Cellular
Materials - Plastics and Elastomers. 3.2.1 blend, n—mixture of olefin polymers with other
Current edition approved Feb. 1, 2020. Published March 2020. Originally monomer(s) or polymer(s) in which at least 51 mass percent is
approved in 1977. Last previous edition approved in 2014 as D3575-14. DOI:
10.1520/D3575-20.
the olefin polymer.
2
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or 3.2.2 flexible cellular material, n—a cellular polymer that
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on will not visibly rupture within a specified time when a
the ASTM website. specimen is bent around a 25.4 mm (1.0 in.) mandrel 180

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard

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 D3575 − 20
degrees within an agreed upon period of time and at a 5. Significance and Use
predetermined temperature.
5.1 The test procedures provide a standard method of
3.2.3 constant compression creep, n—the time-dependent obtaining data for research and development, quality control,
change in thickness of a material under a constant compressive acceptance and rejection under specifications, and special
stress or compression force. purposes.
3.2.4 olefin polymers, n—polymers made by the polymer-
ization of olefins or copolymerization of olefins with other 5.2 The data obtained by these test methods are applicable
monomers, the olefins being at least 51 mass percent. to the material under conditions of the particular test and are
not necessarily the same as obtained in other environments or
4. Summary of Test Methods use conditions.
4.1 Table 1 contains a list of all the assigned suffix letters
that are used in describing the cellular products covered by 6. Sampling
these test methods. 6.1 When possible, use the completed manufactured prod-
4.2 These test methods do not contain test methods for all uct for the tests specified. Randomly select representative
the suffix letters listed in Table 1. Where the test method is not samples of the lot being examined, as required.
included, it shall be arranged between the purchaser and
6.2 Extruded or molded shapes or sizes too small for cutting
supplier.
standard test specimens are difficult to classify or test by these
4.3 Test methods included in this standard are indicated in test methods and will usually require special testing procedures
Table 1 by showing the applicable section numbers after the or the use of standard test sheets.
suffix letter.
6.3 When it is necessary or advisable to obtain test speci-
4.4 In cases involving referee decisions, SI units shall be mens from the article, as in those cases where the entire sample
used.
is not required or adaptable for testing, specify the method of
cutting and the exact position from which specimens are to be
TABLE 1 Suffix Letter Designations taken. It is possible that the apparent density and the state of
NOTE 1—These suffix letters have been assigned by Subcommittee
crosslinking will vary in different parts of the finished product,
D11.33 and are consistent with those in Specifications D1056 and D1667. especially if the article is of complicated shape or of varying
Suffix thickness, and these factors affect the physical properties of the
Property Section
Letter specimens. Also, the apparent density is affected by the number
A Heat resistance of cut surfaces as opposed to the number of skin-covered
B Compression set under constant deflection 9 – 16
C Ozone or weather resistance
surfaces on the test specimen.
D Compression deflection 17 – 24
E Oil resistance
6.4 When the finished product does not lend itself to testing
F Low temperature or to the taking of test specimens because of complicated
G Tear resistance 25 shape, small size, metal or fabric inserts, solid covers, adhesion
H Flex resistance
I Not assigned because of similarity to
to metal, or other reasons, prepare standard test sheets. When
numeral 1 differences due to the difficulty in obtaining suitable test
J Abrasion resistance specimens from the finished part arise, the manufacturer and
K Adhesion capability
L Water absorption 26 – 32 purchaser may agree on acceptable deviations. This can be
M Flammability resistance 33 done by comparing the results of standard test specimens and
N Impact resistance those obtained on actual parts.
O Electrical properties
P Staining resistance
Q Not assigned because of similarity to
6.5 If the material to be tested is anisotropic, prepare the test
letter O specimens so as to measure the property in the direction of
R1 Resilience interest in the application.
R2 Energy absorption 34
S Thermal stability 35 – 42
T Tensile strength and elongation 43 7. Conditioning
U Not assigned
V Thermal conductivity 44 and 45 7.1 Conduct tests under known conditions of temperature
W Density 46 – 48 and and humidity or as specified in the individual test procedure. In
64.5
X Not assigned case of dispute, conduct the test at a temperature of 23 6 2°C
Y Not assigned (73.4 6 3.6°F) and in an atmosphere of 50 6 10 % relative
Z Special requirements
AA Buoyancy 49 – 54 and
humidity. The product shall be conditioned, undeflected, and
64.6 undistorted, at the temperature and humidity of test for at least
BB Constant compressive creep 55 – 62 24 h before being tested.
CC Dynamic cushioning 63 and 64.7
DD Open cell 7.2 It is recommended, for referee purposes, that all tests
EE Not assigned
FF Water vapor transmission shall be performed 96 h or more after the foam has been
manufactured.

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 D3575 − 20
8. Measurement of Test Specimens deviates more than 20 % from this mean, test two additional
8.1 Measure dimensions up to and including 25.4 mm (1 in.) specimens and report the mean for all five values.
using a dial-type gauge with a minimum foot area of 645.1 13. Procedure
mm2 (1 in.2). Hold the pressure on the foot to a maximum of
800 Pa (0.116 psi). 13.1 Perform the entire test procedure at 23 6 2°C (73.4 6
3.6°F).
NOTE 2—Thickness of materials having irregular surface characteristics
shall be measured as agreed upon between the purchaser and the supplier. NOTE 4—See Practice D1349 if conditions other than these are desired.

8.2 Dimensions over 25.4 mm (1 in.) shall be measured with 13.2 Measure the test specimen original thickness (to) in
a dial or digital gauge, scale, or tape. Take care not to distort accordance with the procedure in Section 8.
the test specimen. 13.3 Place the test specimen or specimens in the apparatus
8.3 The scale, tape, or gauge shall be graduated to permit in a manner that will not allow the specimens to come into
measurements within 61 % of the dimension to be measured. contact with each other upon being compressed and deflect the
specimens to 50 % 6 1 % of their thickness.
8.4 Results reported shall be the average of a minimum of
three equally spaced measurements of length and width and for 13.4 Allow the test specimen to remain deflected in the
thickness shall be the average of the center and four equally apparatus for 22 h 6 30 minutes.
spaced measurements around the perimeter of the specimens. 13.5 Remove the specimen from the test apparatus at the
end of the 22-h period. Measure the final thickness ( tf) after 24
h 6 30 minutes of recovery.
Suffix Tests Suffix B—Compression Set Under Constant
Deflection 14. Calculation
14.1 Calculate the constant deflection compression set,
9. Scope
expressed as a percentage of the original thickness, as follows:
9.1 This test method covers the deflection of the foam
specimen under a compressive force and under specified ~t o 2 t f!
Cd 5 3 100 (1)
to
conditions of time and temperature, then noting the effect on
the thickness of the specimen after releasing the compressive where:
force. Cd = compression set expressed as a percent of the original
9.2 This international standard was developed in accor- thickness,
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard- to = original thickness, mm (in.), and
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the tf = thickness of the specimen after the specified recovery
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom- period, mm. (in.)
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
15. Report
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
15.1 The original and final thicknesses of the three speci-
10. Apparatus mens to the nearest 0.0254 mm (0.001 in.).
10.1 Compression Device, consisting of two or more flat 15.2 The average compression set value, of the three speci-
steel or aluminum plates that are of sufficient thickness to mens tested to the nearest 0.1 % for each sample, except as
prevent deflection of the plates under load. The plates are held noted in 13.1.
parallel to each other by bolts or clamps, and the space between
16. Precision and Bias
the plates is adjustable to the required deflection thickness by
means of spacers. 16.1 See Section 64 for precision and bias data.

11. Test Specimens Suffix D—Compression Deflection (Also called Load

Deflection or Compressive Strength)
11.1 The test specimens shall have parallel top and bottom
surfaces and essentially perpendicular sides. 17. Scope
11.2 Specimens shall be 50.8 by 50.8 by 25.4 mm (2 by 2 by 17.1 This test method covers the measurement of the force
1 in.) unless otherwise specified. Specimens less than 25.4 mm necessary to produce a 25 % compression over the entire top
in thickness shall be plied up, without the use of an adhesive, area of the foam specimen.
to produce a total thickness of 25.4 mm. NOTE 5—Compression deflection tests other than at 25 % may be
NOTE 3—To obtain accurate data when testing foams with large cells or specified as agreed upon between the purchaser and the supplier.
irregular surfaces, or both, larger samples approximately 101.6 by 101.6 17.2 This international standard was developed in accor-
by 25.4 mm (4 by 4 by 1 in.) are recommended. dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
12. Number of Specimens Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
12.1 Test three specimens for each sample. The values mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
reported shall be the mean of those observed. If any value Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

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 D3575 − 20
18. Apparatus 23.3 The average compression deflection of the three speci-
18.1 An apparatus shall be capable of compressing the mens in kPa or psi to the nearest 0.1, except as noted in 20.1.
specimen between a flat supporting plate and a flat compres- 24. Precision and Bias
sion foot, larger than the specimen to be tested, at a uniform
speed of 31.75 6 12.7 mm/min (1.25 6 0.5 in ⁄min). The 24.1 See Section 64 for precision and bias data.
apparatus shall be capable of measuring the force required to
Suffix G—Tear Resistance, Test Method D624
produce the specified compression and the displacement of the
compression foot. 25. Test Method D624
19. Test Specimens 25.1 Die C shall be used.
19.1 The test specimen shall be 50.8 by 50.8 by 25.4 mm (2 25.2 Test the material at the thickness to be supplied, unless
by 2 by 1 in.), unless otherwise specified, with parallel top and otherwise arranged by agreement between the purchaser and
bottom surfaces. Tolerances for the dimensions shall be 61.27 the supplier.
mm (0.050 in.). Specimens less than 25.4 mm thick shall be
Suffix L—Water Absorption
plied up, without the use of cement, to a minimum of 25.4 mm.
NOTE 6—Specimens less than 25.4 mm (1 in.) thick may be tested 26. Scope
without being plied up, but the thickness must be specified. 26.1 This test method covers the measurement of the water
20. Number of Specimens absorbed by olefin polymer flexible cellular materials during
submersion under pressure.
20.1 Test three specimens for each sample. The values
26.2 This international standard was developed in accor-
reported shall be the mean of those observed. If any value
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
deviates more than 20 % from this mean, test two additional
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
specimens and report the mean for all five values.
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
21. Procedure mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
21.1 Place the specimen centered in the line of the axial load
on the supporting plate of the apparatus. 27. Test Specimens
21.2 Bring the compression foot into contact with the 27.1 Test specimens shall be 101.6 by 101.6 mm (4 by 4 in.)
specimen and determine the thickness after applying a total by the thickness of material being supplied. Unless otherwise
pretest-pressure of 190 6 50 Pa (0.028 6 0.007 psi) to the specified, the presence of skin on the top or bottom surfaces
specimen area. Compress the specimen 25 6 0.5 % of this shall be optional.
thickness at 12.7 6 1 mm/min (0.5 6 0.039 in. ⁄min) and take
the reading of the load immediately, unless another speed is 28. Number of Specimens
specified. 28.1 Test three specimens for each sample. The values
NOTE 7—Where foam is appreciably compressed by this pretest- reported shall be the mean of those observed. If any value
pressure, foot area and loading shall be as agreed upon between the deviates more than 20 % from this mean, test two additional
purchaser and the supplier. specimens and report the mean for all five values.
22. Calculation 29. Procedure
22.1 Calculate the 25 % compression deflection stress, per 29.1 Measure the area of the cut surfaces in accordance with
unit area of specimen, expressed as kilopascals or psi, as Section 8 and calculate the area of the cut surfaces.
follows:
29.2 Weigh the specimens and submerge under a 3 6 0.1-m
F (10-ft 6 4-in.) head of water (equal to 28.68–31.09 kPa or
CD 5 (2)
A 4.16–4.51 psi) at 23 6 2°C (73.4 6 3.6°F) for 48 h 6 15 min.
where: Then place the specimens in a stream of air for the minimum
CD = compression deflection stress per unit of specimen time required to remove visible water from the surfaces and
area, kPa (psi), reweigh.
F = force required to compress the specimen 25 % of the NOTE 8—To remove visible and entrapped water from the surface and
thickness as measured in 8.2, kN (lbf), and cut edges, direct a stream of air (using approximately 30 psi air pressure)
A = specimen contact surface area, m2 (in.2). at the surfaces and cut edges at approximately a 45 degree angle and from
the distance of approximately 6.35 mm (0.25 in.) from the surface for
23. Report approximately 4 min.

23.1 The average thickness of the three specimens to the 30. Calculation
nearest 0.0254 mm (0.001 in). 30.1 Calculate the water absorption, expressed in kg/m2
23.2 The average area of the three specimens to the nearest (lb/ft2) of cut surfaces (surfaces without skin or rind) as
0.645 mm2 (0.001 in.2). follows:

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 D3575 − 20
W2 2 W1 38. Number of Specimens
Water Absorption 5 (3)
A 38.1 A single specimen shall be tested for each sample.
where:
39. Procedure
W1 = specimen mass before immersion, kg (lb),
W2 = specimen mass after immersion, kg (lb), and 39.1 Determine all three dimensions in accordance with the
A = area of cut surface, m2 (ft2). procedure in Section 8.
39.2 Adjust the oven temperature to 70 6 2°C (158 6
31. Report 3.6°F).
31.1 The initial and final mass of the three specimens to the 39.3 Expose the test specimen in the oven at the above
nearest 0.001 g. temperature for 24 h 6 15 minutes.
31.2 The average water absorption in kg/m2 (lb/ft2) of the 39.4 Remove the test specimen and allow to cool at 236
three specimens tested to the nearest 0.1, except as noted in 2°C (73.4 6 3.6°F) for 2 h 6 15 minutes.
28.1.
39.5 Determine all three dimensions at the end of the
32. Precision and Bias cooling period.
32.1 See Section 64 for precision and bias data. 40. Calculation
Suffix M—Flammability Ease of Ignition 40.1 Calculate the dimensional change for each dimension
as a percent of original as follows:
33. See Test Method D2863 Lf 2 Lo
% dimensional change 5 3 100 (4)
Lo
Suffix R2—Energy Absorption
where:
34. See Test Method F355 Lo = original dimension, mm (in.), and
34.1 Procedure A of Test Method F355 shall be used. Lf = dimension at end of test, mm (in.).
34.2 The impact velocity shall be 3.45 6 0.17 m/s. 41. Report
NOTE 9—Approximate drop height is 60 cm (24 in.). 41.1 The dimensional change of each direction of interest as
34.3 Conduct the test at 23 6 2°C (73.4 6 3.6°F). a percent of the original dimension to the nearest 0.1 %.
34.4 The test specimens shall be 25.4 mm (1 in.) thick. 41.2 The shrinkage as negative values and growth as posi-
tive values.
Suffix S—Thermal Stability
42. Precision and Bias
35. Scope 42.1 See Section 64 for precision and bias data.
35.1 This test method covers the determination of dimen-
sional stability of foam in any direction, at elevated tempera- Suffix T—Tensile Strength and Elongation
ture.
43. See Test Methods D412
35.2 This international standard was developed in accor-
43.1 The samples shall be cut using the Die A, as described
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
in Test Methods D412.
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom- 43.2 Test the material in the thickness to be supplied, unless
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical otherwise agreed upon between the purchaser and the supplier.
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Suffix V—Thermal Conductivity
36. Apparatus 44. Test Method A
36.1 Oven, circulating-air, capable of holding the set tem- 44.1 See Test Method C177.
perature to a tolerance of 61 %.
45. Test Method B
37. Test Specimen
45.1 See Test Method C518.
37.1 The test specimens shall be 254 by 254 by 25.4 mm (10
by 10 by 1 in.). Where finished goods with smaller than the Suffix W—Density
specified test specimen are to be tested, the full available
dimensions shall be used. 46. Test Method A
NOTE 10—An alternative test method is to cut 304.8 by 304.8-mm (12 46.1 Scope—This test method covers the determination of
by 12-in.) specimens and mark off the 254 by 254-mm (10 by 10-in.) density of foam by calculation from the mass and volume of a
dimensions. regularly shaped specimen.

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 D3575 − 20
46.2 Test Specimen—A representative test specimen of regu- 48. Test Method B
lar shape, not less than 16.4 cm3 (1 in.3) shall be cut from the 48.1 Scope—This test method covers the determination of
sample to be tested. the density of closed-cell foams where the volume is deter-
NOTE 11—Larger specimens may be necessary when testing coarse cell mined by a liquid displacement method and mass.
foams.
NOTE 12—This test method is particularly appropriate when testing
46.3 Number of Specimens—Three specimens shall be small or irregularly shaped samples.
tested for each sample.
48.2 Apparatus:
46.4 Procedure: 48.2.1 Scale or Balance.
46.4.1 Weigh the specimen on a balance or scale graduated 48.2.2 Immersion Vessel, as shown in Fig. 1.
so as to permit weighing within 61 % of the mass to be 48.2.3 Receiving Vessel, as shown in Fig. 1.
measured.
46.4.2 Determine the dimensions of the specimen in accor- 48.3 Test Specimen—Cut a representative test specimen not
dance with Section 8. less than 16.4 cm3 (1 in.3) from the sample to be tested.
46.5 Calculation—Calculate the density as follows: NOTE 13—Larger specimens may be necessary when testing coarse cell
foams or foams with irregular surfaces.
m
D5
v
(5) 48.4 Number of Specimens—Test three specimens for each
sample.
where:
48.5 Procedure:
D = density, kg/m3 (lb/ft3), 48.5.1 Weigh the specimen on a balance or scale graduated
m = mass, kg (lb), and
so as to permit weighing within 61 % of the mass to be
v = volume, m3 (ft3).
measured.
46.6 Report—Report density to the nearest 1.0 kg/m3 (0.1 48.5.2 Fill the immersion vessel with liquid until it over-
lb/ft3). flows. Insert the lid in the vessel.
46.6.1 The mass of each specimen to the nearest 0.001g. 48.5.3 Determine the tare mass of the receiving vessel and,
46.6.2 The volume of each specimen to the nearest 1 mm3 when the flow rate has decreased to less than two drops per
or 0.001 in3. minute, place under the overflow spout of the immersion
46.6.3 The average density of three specimens in (kg/m3) vessel.
lb/ft3 to the nearest 0.1. 48.5.4 Remove the lid, place the test specimen in the
immersion vessel, and replace the lid.
47. Precision and Bias 48.5.5 When the flow rate has decreased to less than two
47.1 See Section 64 for precision and bias data. drops per minute, weigh the receiving vessel.

FIG. 1 Apparatus for Density Test Method B

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 D3575 − 20
48.6 Calculation—Calculate the density as follows: 53.3 Weigh the inverted, empty basket, including all
ms weights necessary to hold the specimen under water, while
d5 3 d1 (6) submerged to a depth of 50.8 mm (2 in.).
mf 2 me
53.4 Place the specimen under the inverted basket and
where:
submerged so the upper surface of the specimen is 50 6 6.375
d = density, kg/m3 (lb/ft3), mm (2 6 0.25 in.) below the surface of the water.
ms = mass of test specimen, g (lb),
mf = mass of receiving vessel and liquid, g (lb), 53.5 Submerge the specimen for 24 h 6 15 min and reweigh
me = tare mass of receiving vessel, g (lb), and the submerged basket and specimen without removing them
d1 = density of liquid, kg/m3 (lb/ft3). from the water.
48.7 Report—The average density of three specimens in 53.6 Calculate the fresh water buoyancy as follows:
kg/m3 (lb/ft3) to the nearest 0.1. WB 2 Ws
Bm 5 (7)
V
Suffix AA—Buoyancy (Also called Specific Buoyancy)
where:
49. Scope Bm = measured fresh water buoyancy, kg/m3 (lb/ft3),
49.1 This buoyancy test is applicable to closed-cell materi- WB = mass of submerged basket, kg (lb),
als for determining the buoyancy of the foam in fresh water at Ws = mass of submerged basket and specimen after 24 h, kg
a standard temperature of 20°C (68°F). (lb), and
V = volume of specimen, m3 (ft3).
49.2 This international standard was developed in accor-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard- 54. Report
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom- 54.1 The average fresh water buoyancy of the three speci-
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical mens tested, except as noted in 52.1.
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee. Suffix BB—Constant Compression Creep
50. Apparatus 55. Scope
50.1 Scale, Tape, or Gauge, as outlined in Section 8, for 55.1 This test method covers the determination of creep
determining the density using Test Method A or balance and properties of flexible polyolefin foam materials in the form of
container as outlined in Section 48 for determining the density sheets, boards, or blocks, when subjected to a constant com-
using Test Method B. pressive force.
50.2 Rigid Tank, containing fresh water at 20 6 3°C (68 6 55.2 This international standard was developed in accor-
5.4°F) in which specimens are submerged. dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
50.3 Basket(s), wire or mesh weighted, to hold specimens in ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
submerged position. Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
50.4 Scales, mounted over the water tank to weigh the Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
basket and specimens while submerged.
56. Summary of Test Method
51. Test Specimens
56.1 A loaded, movable platen is placed on a test specimen
51.1 The test specimens shall be 304.8 by 304.8 mm (12 by to stimulate static constant compressive loading. By measuring
12 in.) by the thickness of buoyant material furnished. the change in thickness with time, creep properties of the foam
NOTE 14—It is not advisable to ply up layers because this could cause material can be obtained.
entrapment of air between the layers giving erroneous results. NOTE 15—The data may be affected by specimen area, thickness,
varying ambient conditions of temperature, humidity, vibration, and
52. Number of Specimens impact.
52.1 Test three specimens for each sample. The values
57. Apparatus
reported shall be the mean of those observed. If any value
deviates more than 20 % from this mean, test two additional 57.1 The apparatus shall consist of a rigid base plate and a
specimens and report the mean for all five values. force movable platen. Provisions shall be made for applying a
force to the movable platen. The base plate and movable platen
53. Procedure shall have minimum dimensions of 114.3 by 114.3 mm (4.5 by
4.5 in.). The force shall be applied to the movable platen at a
53.1 Determine the volume of each specimen using the pivot point located at the geometric center of the platen. A dial
procedure described in Section 46 or 48. micrometer shall be attached to the base plate or frame of the
53.2 Maintain the water temperature at 20 6 3°C (68 6 apparatus to permit continuous measurements of the travel of
5.4°F) throughout the test. the movable platen. Any force-inducing mechanism that does

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 D3575 − 20
not interfere with measurement of the movement of the 60.4 Creep Determination—Measure the thickness of the
movable platen is acceptable. A suitable apparatus is shown in compressively stressed test specimen at any desired time
Fig. 2. interval, but at least at 6 min, 1 h, 24 h, and 168 h, after
application of the force. More frequent readings are recom-
58. Test Specimen mended to establish a creep versus time curve. Record the
58.1 Test specimens shall be right square prisms or right thickness at each specified time interval as the deflection
cylinders with minimum area of 25.8 cm2 (4 in.2) and the thickness (Td).
maximum dimension shall be no greater than the size of the 60.5 Temperature and Humidity—In order to establish data
platen in 57.1. The thickness shall not exceed half of the lateral that will simulate actual conditions of experience, it is accept-
dimensions. able to determine creep at varied temperatures and humidities.
Record the temperature and humidity used.
59. Number of Specimens
61. Calculation
59.1 Test four specimens for each sample. The values
reported shall be the mean of these observed. If any value 61.1 Calculate the static compressive stress in pascals (or
deviates more than 20 % from this mean, test two additional pounds-force per square inch) for the given force as follows:
specimens and report the mean of these six values. F
Static stress 5 (8)
L 3W
60. Procedure
where:
60.1 Measure the thickness of the specimen in accordance
F = applied force, N (or lbf),
with Section 8. Record this value as the original thickness (T). L = length of the specimen, m (or in.), and
60.2 Measure the length and width of the specimen in W = width of the specimen, m (or in.).
accordance with Section 8 and record. 61.2 Calculate creep based on initial thickness under com-
60.3 Assemble the apparatus described in 57.1. With the pressive force as follows:
removable platen in contact with the base plate, position the Creep at any given time interval, %
dial micrometer to read thickness at the geometric center of the ~ T i 2 T d!
platen and adjust the micrometer to read zero. Raise the 5
Ti
3 100 (9)
movable platen and center the test specimen under the movable
platen on the base plate. Using appropriate means, apply the where:
force agreed upon between the purchaser and the supplier, to Ti = initial thickness under load, mm (in.), and
the test specimen by placing the standard masses gently on the Td = deflection thickness, mm (in.).
platen. Measure the total force. Start to measure the thickness
of the test specimen while under load 60 6 5 s after the force 62. Report
has been applied. Record this thickness as the initial thickness 62.1 Report the following information:
under force (Ti). 62.1.1 Origin and description of material tested,

FIG. 2 Creep Test Apparatus

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 D3575 − 20
62.1.2 Dates of test, 64.4 For information on Equivalence, refer to Practice
62.1.3 Number of specimens tested, E2935.
62.1.4 Original dimensions of test specimens,
62.1.5 Temperature and humidity used, 64.5 Density Test Method B—The repeatability standard
62.1.6 Static stress, and deviation has been determined to be 0.47. The reproducibility
62.1.7 Plot the average creep of the four specimens tested as of this test method is not yet available. Values of data ranged
a percent of the average initial thickness under load versus from 64.1 to 65.6.
time. Density, kg/m3
(Test Method B)
1 64.1
Suffix CC—Dynamic Cushioning 2 65.6
3 65.6
63. See Test Method D1596 4 65.6
5 65.6
63.1 A 345 6 17 cm/s (135 6 7 in./s) impact velocity shall 6 65.6
be used. 7 65.6
8 65.6
NOTE 16—Approximate drop height 61 cm (24 in.). 9 65.6
10 65.6
63.2 The test shall be conducted at 23 6 2°C (73.4 6 3.6°F) Average 65.6
and 50 6 10 % relative humidity. Standard deviation 0.47

63.3 The test specimen shall be 50.8 6 1.6 mm (26 0.063 64.6 Buoyancy—The repeatability standard deviation has
in.). been determined to be 0.9. The reproducibility of this test
63.4 The missile mass varies with the sample size and shall method is not yet available. Values of data ranged from 58 to
be such that it would be equal to 6.9 kPa (1 psi). 60.6.
63.5 Record the average values for Drops 2 through 5. Buoyancy
1 58
2 58.4
64. Precision and Bias 3 58.5
64.1 The precision for test method Suffixes B, D, L, S, and 4 58.7
5 58.9
W are based on an interlaboratory study of this standard, 6 59.3
conducted in 2013. Ten laboratories participated in this study. 7 59.7
8 60.2
Each of the labs was instructed to report triplicate test results 9 60.3
for three different types of cellular materials. Every “test 10 60.6
result” reported represents an individual determination. Prac- Average 59.26
Standard deviation 0.9
tice E691 was followed for the design and analysis of the data;
the details are given in ASTM Research Report No. D20-1262. 64.7 Dynamic Cushioning—The repeatability standard de-
64.1.1 The precision statistics obtained in this ILS must not viation has been determined to be 0.03 (6 min), 0.11 (60 min),
be treated as exact mathematical quantities which are appli- 0.13 (24 h), and 0.18 (168 h). The reproducibility of this test
cable to all circumstances and uses. It is possible that the method is not yet available. Values of data ranged from 1.9 to
limited number of materials tested would lead to times when 2.22 after 168 h.
differences greater than predicted by the ILS results will arise, Constant Compression Creep
sometimes with considerably greater or smaller frequency than 6 min 60 min 24 h 168 h
the 95 % probability limit would imply. 1 0.3 0.6 1.3 1.9
2 0.4 0.8 1.3 2
64.2 Bias—At the time of the study, there was no accepted 3 0.4 0.8 1.5 2.1
reference material suitable for determining the bias for this test 4 0.4 0.8 1.5 2.2
5 0.4 0.8 1.6 2.2
method, therefore no statement on bias is being made. 6 0.4 0.9 1.6 2.3
7 0.4 0.9 1.6 2.3
64.3 The precision statement for Tables 2-8 were deter- 8 0.4 0.9 1.6 2.3
mined through statistical examination of 501 results, from ten 9 0.4 0.9 1.6 2.4
laboratories, on the three materials listed below. 10 0.4 1 1.7 2.5
Average 0.39 0.84 1.53 2.22
Material A: Low Density Polyethylene Standard deviation 0.03 0.11 0.13 0.18
Material B: Medium Density Polyethylene
Material C: High Density Polyethylene

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 D3575 − 20
TABLE 2 Compression Set (%) 10 labs (78 results)
A
Material Average Repeatability Reproducibility Repeatability Reproducibility
Standard Standard Limit Limit
Deviation Deviation
x̄ sr sR r R
Material A 17.20 0.81 2.02 2.27 5.66
Material B 7.32 0.62 1.32 1.73 3.69
Material C 4.93 0.63 0.67 1.77 1.88
A
The average of the laboratories’ calculated averages.

TABLE 3 Thermal Stability - Width (%) 8 labs (72 results)

Material AverageA Repeatability Reproducibility Repeatability Reproducibility
Standard Standard Limit Limit
Deviation Deviation
x̄ sr sR r R
Material A -2.23 0.18 0.81 0.49 2.28
Material B -1.14 0.16 0.52 0.45 1.44
Material C -0.68 0.15 0.35 0.42 0.99
A
The average of the laboratories’ calculated averages.

TABLE 4 Thermal Stability – Length (%) 8 labs (72 results)

A
Material Average Repeatability Reproducibility Repeatability Reproducibility
Standard Standard Limit Limit
Deviation Deviation
x̄ sr sR r R
Material A -2.25 0.26 0.73 0.71 2.03
Material B -1.17 0.12 0.57 0.34 1.59
Material C -0.61 0.39 0.54 1.09 1.52
A
The average of the laboratories’ calculated averages.

TABLE 5 Thermal Stability – Thickness (%) 8 labs (72 results)

Material AverageA Repeatability Reproducibility Repeatability Reproducibility
Standard Standard Limit Limit
Deviation Deviation
x̄ sr sR r R
Material A -1.71 0.27 0.73 0.76 2.04
Material B -0.53 0.21 0.37 0.60 1.03
Material C -0.16 0.48 0.56 1.34 1.58
A
The average of the laboratories’ calculated averages.

TABLE 6 Retest Compression Deflection (KPa) 7 labs (63 results)

Material AverageA Repeatability Reproducibility Repeatability Reproducibility
Standard Standard Limit Limit
Deviation Deviation
x̄ sr sR r R
Material A 34.05 0.84 2.91 2.36 8.14
Material B 108.43 2.16 7.45 6.06 20.85
Material C 117.58 2.98 6.99 8.35 19.58
A
The average of the laboratories’ calculated averages.

TABLE 7 Density (kg/m3) 10 labs (90 results)

Material AverageA Repeatability Reproducibility Repeatability Reproducibility
Standard Standard Limit Limit
Deviation Deviation
x̄ sr sR r R
Material A 36.87 1.12 3.55 3.14 9.95
Material B 54.61 3.38 4.34 9.47 12.15
Material C 110.96 2.13 4.85 5.96 13.58
A
The average of the laboratories’ calculated averages.

TABLE 8 Water Absorption (kg/m2) 6 labs (54 results)

A
Material Average Repeatability Reproducibility Repeatability Reproducibility
Standard Standard Limit Limit
Deviation Deviation
x̄ sr sR r R
Material A 0.0831 0.0058 0.0666 0.0162 0.1864
Material B 0.0407 0.0035 0.0367 0.0098 0.1028
Material C 0.0231 0.0026 0.0187 0.0074 0.0523
A
The average of the laboratories’ calculated averages.

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 D3575 − 20
65. Keywords
65.1 closed cell materials; flexible cellular; olefin polymers

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Committee D20 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue (D3575–14)
that may impact the use of this standard. (February 1, 2020)

(1) Updated Table 1 to reference Sections 9-16 for Suffix B (9) Corrected the precision statement where reproducibility has
instead of Suffix A. not yet been determined. The statement “ is being determined
(2) Updated the description of the apparatus for Compression and will be available on or before December 2009” has been
Deflection in 18.1. removed and replaced with “is not yet available” as required in
(3) Removed objectionable permissive language from 4.1, 6.3, A3.1.3 of ASTM D4968.
8.2, 27.1, and 60.5. (10) Added references to E456, E2935 and D883 to Section 2.
(4) Added Tolerances for specimen size in 19.1, and removed (11) Added a statement in Section 3 “Terms used in this
19.2 by combining with 19.1 to remove contradicting language standard are defined in accordance with Terminology D883,
for specimen dimensions. unless otherwise specified. For terms relating to precision and
(5) Added limits to the values of major sources of uncertainty bias and associated issues, the terms used in this standard are
to 21.2 and 29.2. defined in accordance with Terminology E456.”
(6) Corrected the unit of measure from N to kN in 22.1. (12) Removed old 67.1.2 thru 67.1.3 referencing definitions of
(7) Added to and specified the form of presentation of results in the terms repeatability and reproducibility.
Sections 15, 23, 31, 41, 46.6, and 48.7. (13) Added wording in 64.1 and 64.3 to only reference the test
(8) Changed the number of specimens for Density Methods A methods studied in the 2013 ILS.
and B from one to three. (14) Converted Section 58.2 to Note 15.

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