ASTM C209-20

Standard Test Methods for Cellulosic Fiber Insulating Board

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 The test methods contained in this document are intended for cellulosic fiber insulating board as described in Specification C208. These test methods examine mechanical, physical and thermal properties, properties related to water absorption and water vapor exposure, and flammability related properties.  
4.2 The results of these tests are suitable to describe the performance of insulating board and are also suitable for use in material specifications.
Note 1: Committee C-16 is in the process of splitting this document into discrete test methods categorized by the nature of the test methods.
SCOPE
1.1 These test methods cover those insulation products in specified Specification C208. The requirements for the products’ physical properties are specified in Specification C208. The methods for the general insulation products’ physical properties are given as follows:    
Section  
Thickness  
7  
Size of Finished Board  
8  
Thermal Conductivity  
9  
Transverse Strength  
10  
Deflection at Specified Minimum Load  
11  
Tensile Strength Parallel to Surface  
12  
Tensile Strength Perpendicular to Surface  
13  
Water Absorption  
14  
Linear Expansion  
15  
Water Vapor Transmission  
16  
Flame Spread Index  
17  
Moisture Content and Density  
18  
Compressive Strength  
19  
1.2 Reference is provided to an established source for nomenclature and definitions.  
1.3 Several of the test methods contained in this document are referenced by material specifications other than cellulosic fiber insulating board. These include mineral fiber, perlite, polyisocyanurate, polystyrene and phenolic materials.  
1.4 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.  
1.5 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.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 14-Mar-2020
• ICS: 27.220 - Heat recovery. Thermal insulation
• Technical Committee: C16 - Thermal Insulation
• Drafting Committee: C16.32 - Mechanical Properties

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM C209-15 - Standard Test Methods for Cellulosic Fiber Insulating Board
• Effective Date: 15-Mar-2020
• Refers: ASTM C168-24 - Standard Terminology Relating to Thermal Insulation
• Effective Date: 15-Apr-2024
• Refers: ASTM E96/E96M-24 - Standard Test Methods for Gravimetric Determination of Water Vapor Transmission Rate of Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2024
• Refers: ASTM C870-24 - Standard Practice for Conditioning of Thermal Insulating Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2024
• Refers: ASTM E84-23d - Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM E96/E96M-23 - Standard Test Methods for Gravimetric Determination of Water Vapor Transmission Rate of Materials
• Effective Date: 15-Nov-2023
• Refers: ASTM E84-23c - Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2023
• Refers: ASTM C1763-20 - Standard Test Method for Water Absorption by Immersion of Thermal Insulation Materials
• Effective Date: 01-May-2020
• Refers: ASTM C1763-19e1 - Standard Test Method for Water Absorption by Immersion of Thermal Insulation Materials
• Effective Date: 15-Oct-2019
• Refers: ASTM C1763-19 - Standard Test Method for Water Absorption by Immersion of Thermal Insulation Materials
• Effective Date: 15-Oct-2019
• Refers: ASTM E84-19b - Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2019
• Refers: ASTM E84-19a - Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
• Effective Date: 15-Apr-2019
• Refers: ASTM C1045-19 - Standard Practice for Calculating Thermal Transmission Properties Under Steady-State Conditions
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2019
• Refers: ASTM C1114-06(2019) - Standard Test Method for Steady-State Thermal Transmission Properties by Means of the Thin-Heater Apparatus
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2019
• Refers: ASTM E84-19 - Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2019

Overview

ASTM C209-20 - Standard Test Methods for Cellulosic Fiber Insulating Board outlines comprehensive procedures for evaluating the mechanical, physical, thermal, and fire-related properties of cellulosic fiber insulating boards. Developed by ASTM International and approved by agencies such as the U.S. Department of Defense, this standard is central to ensuring the reliability and performance of insulation boards made primarily from ligno-cellulosic fibers. The methods referenced are widely applicable not only to cellulosic boards conforming to Specification C208, but also, in some cases, to similar products such as mineral fiber and polystyrene boards.

The standard addresses the rigorous testing of key characteristics such as moisture content, water absorption, tensile and compressive strength, and flame spread index - attributes that are critical for performance assessment and specification compliance in building and construction materials.

Key Topics

ASTM C209-20 covers multiple core testing methods for cellulosic fiber insulating boards, including:

• Thickness and Dimensions: Procedures for accurate measurement of board thickness and finished size to ensure product uniformity.
• Thermal Conductivity: Testing in accordance with ASTM C177, C518, C1045, or C1114 for assessing insulation effectiveness.
• Transverse and Tensile Strength: Evaluation of board strength both parallel and perpendicular to the surface, vital for structural integrity.
• Compressive Strength: Determined using ASTM C165, providing data on load-bearing capability.
• Deflection at Minimum Load: Examines flexibility and resilience under loading conditions.
• Water Absorption and Linear Expansion: Measures the board’s capacity to absorb water and dimensional changes, using tests such as ASTM C1763 and ASTM D1037.
• Water Vapor Transmission: Assessed by ASTM E96/E96M to evaluate resistance against moisture penetration, crucial for humid environments.
• Flame Spread Index: Determined using ASTM E84 to assess surface burning characteristics, vital for safety and regulatory compliance.
• Moisture Content and Density: Calculated per ASTM C1616 and ASTM C303 for material consistency and strength prediction.

Applications

ASTM C209-20 is widely used in research, quality assurance, and certification of building insulation materials. Practical applications include:

• Material Specification: Producers and specifiers use these methods to verify compliance with ASTM C208 and project requirements.
• Product Development: Manufacturers apply these tests during R&D to improve board properties such as durability, thermal resistance, and fire safety.
• Quality Control: Routine testing ensures consistency in board production and performance over time.
• Building Design & Construction: Specifiers and contractors rely on C209-20 data to select appropriate insulation materials for walls, roofs, and ceilings, optimizing energy efficiency and indoor comfort.
• Regulatory Compliance: Results from C209-20 are used to demonstrate adherence to building codes and safety standards for insulating materials.
• Cross-Material Assessment: Test methods are also referenced for mineral fiber, perlite, polyisocyanurate, polystyrene, and phenolic insulations, enhancing their utility across the insulation industry.

Related Standards

Several ASTM standards are referenced for detailed test procedures and terminology in conjunction with C209-20:

• ASTM C208: Specification for Cellulosic Fiber Insulating Board
• ASTM C165: Test Method for Compressive Properties of Thermal Insulations
• ASTM C168: Terminology Relating to Thermal Insulation
• ASTM C177, C518, C1045, C1114: Thermal conductivity and heat transmission methods
• ASTM C303: Dimensions and Density of Preformed Block and Board–Type Insulation
• ASTM D1037: Evaluating Properties of Wood-Base Fiber and Particle Boards
• ASTM E84: Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics
• ASTM E96/E96M: Water Vapor Transmission of Materials
• ASTM C870, C1616, C1763: Conditioning and moisture/water absorption testing practices

For professionals in construction, manufacturing, and quality assurance, ASTM C209-20 serves as a trusted standard for assessing and benchmarking the performance of cellulosic fiber insulating boards and ensuring their suitability for modern building applications.

Standards Content (Sample)

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: C209 − 20
Standard Test Methods for
Cellulosic Fiber Insulating Board
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C209; 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.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope 2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
1.1 These test methods cover those insulation products in
C165 Test Method for Measuring Compressive Properties of
specified Specification C208. The requirements for the prod-
Thermal Insulations
ucts’ physical properties are specified in Specification C208.
C168 Terminology Relating to Thermal Insulation
The methods for the general insulation products’ physical
C177 Test Method for Steady-State Heat Flux Measure-
properties are given as follows:
ments and Thermal Transmission Properties by Means of
Section
the Guarded-Hot-Plate Apparatus
Thickness 7
Size of Finished Board 8
C208 Specification for Cellulosic Fiber Insulating Board
Thermal Conductivity 9
C303 Test Method for Dimensions and Density of Pre-
Transverse Strength 10
Deflection at Specified Minimum Load 11 formed Block and Board–Type Thermal Insulation
Tensile Strength Parallel to Surface 12
C518 Test Method for Steady-State Thermal Transmission
Tensile Strength Perpendicular to Surface 13
Properties by Means of the Heat Flow Meter Apparatus
Water Absorption 14
Linear Expansion 15 C870 Practice for Conditioning of Thermal Insulating Ma-
Water Vapor Transmission 16
terials
Flame Spread Index 17
C1045 Practice for Calculating Thermal Transmission Prop-
Moisture Content and Density 18
Compressive Strength 19 erties Under Steady-State Conditions
C1114 Test Method for Steady-State Thermal Transmission
1.2 Reference is provided to an established source for
Properties by Means of the Thin-Heater Apparatus
nomenclature and definitions.
C1616 Test Method for Determining the Moisture Content
1.3 Several of the test methods contained in this document
of Organic and Inorganic Insulation Materials by Weight
are referenced by material specifications other than cellulosic
C1763 Test Method for Water Absorption by Immersion of
fiber insulating board. These include mineral fiber, perlite,
Thermal Insulation Materials
polyisocyanurate, polystyrene and phenolic materials.
D1037 Test Methods for Evaluating Properties of Wood-
Base Fiber and Particle Panel Materials
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the
D1554 Terminology Relating to Wood-Base Fiber and Par-
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
ticle Panel Materials
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
E84 Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
Building Materials
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
E96/E96M Test Methods for Water Vapor Transmission of
1.5 This international standard was developed in accor-
Materials
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
3. Terminology
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
3.1 Definitions—The definitions of terms used in these
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
methods shall be in accordance with Definitions D1554 and
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Terminology C168.
3.2 cellulosic fiber insulating board—a fibrous-felted, ho-
mogeneous panel made from ligno-cellulosic fibers (usually
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C16 on
Thermal Insulation and are the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C16.32 on
Mechanical Properties. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved March 15, 2020. Published March 2020. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1946. Last previous edition approved in 2015 as C209 – 15. DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/C0209-20. the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
C209 − 20
3 3
wood ) and having a density of less than 31 lb/ft (497 kg/m ) in. (13 mm) shall be used. Pressure on the contacting surfaces
3 3
but more than 10 lb/ft (160 kg/m ). shall not be greater than 1 psi (6.9 kPa) nor less than 0.25 psi
3.2.1 Discussion—Cellulosic fiber insulating board. It is (1.7 kPa), and the instrument shall read to an accuracy of 0.001
characterized by an integral bond that is produced by interfelt- in. (0.03 mm).
ing of the fibers, but which has not been consolidated under
7.2 Procedure—Measure the thickness at five points, near
heat and pressure as a separate stage in manufacture. Other
each corner and near the center, to an accuracy of 60.001 in.
materials may be added during manufacture to improve certain
(60.02 mm). Take care that the sample is not deformed when
properties.
the thickness measurements are taken.
3.3 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
7.3 Calculation and Report—Report the average of the five
3.3.1 board—refers to the material as received.
measurements as the average thickness of the sample. Report
3.3.2 sample—referstothe36by48-in.(0.9by1.2-m)piece
astheaveragethicknessofthesample,theaveragethicknessof
cut from a board.
the lot, report thickness tolerance, as follows:
3.3.3 test specimen—refers to the test piece cut from a
Thickness tolerance 5 h 2 h /h (1)
~ !
1 2 1
sample unless otherwise specified in the test method.
where:
3.3.4 sorption—ageneralterminphysicalchemistryusedto
h = average thickness of lot, and
describe the combined processes of:
h = average thickness of sample.
(1) absorption—refers to the taking up of matter in bulk by
other matter, for example, the penetration of substances into
8. Size of Finished Board
the bulk of another solid or liquid.
(2) adsorption—refers to surface retention or adhesion of 8.1 Procedure—Obtain the average width of the finished
board by measuring the width at each end and at the middle to
anextremelythinlayerofmoleculestothesurfacesofsolidsor
liquids with which they are in contact. an accuracy of 60.3 % or ⁄16 in. (2 mm), whichever is smaller,
and averaging these readings. Obtain the average length of the
4. Significance and Use
finished board in a similar manner.
4.1 The test methods contained in this document are in-
9. Thermal Conductivity
tended for cellulosic fiber insulating board as described in
Specification C208. These test methods examine mechanical,
9.1 Procedure—Determine thermal conductivity in accor-
physical and thermal properties, properties related to water
dance with Test Method C177, or in accordance with Test
absorption and water vapor exposure, and flammability related
Methods C518, C1045 or C1114.Test two specimens from one
properties.
sample from one board.
4.2 The results of these tests are suitable to describe the
10. Transverse Strength
performance of insulating board and are also suitable for use in
material specifications.
10.1 Apparatus:
10.1.1 Testing Machine—Any standard mechanical or hy-
NOTE 1—Committee C-16 is in the process of splitting this document
draulic testing machine capable of applying and measuring the
into discrete test methods categorized by the nature of the test methods.
required load within an accuracy of 62 % is suitable for use.
5. Sampling
10.1.2 Bearing Edges—The bearing edges shall be rounded
to a radius of ⁄8 in. (10 mm) to prevent injury to the specimen.
5.1 Selection of Boards—Refer to Specification C208, Sec-
The bearing edges shall be straight and shall maintain full
tion 9 on Sampling.
contact with the specimen throughout the test.
5.2 Size of Sample—From each board a sample, 36 by 48 in.
10.2 Test Specimen—The specimen shall be 3 by 15 in. (76
(0.9 by 1.2 m) shall be cut. When possible, the larger
by 381 mm) and conditioned in accordance with 6.1. Three
dimension of the sample shall be crosswise of the longer
specimens from the long dimension of each sample from each
dimension of the board as it is usually obtained. When the
board and three at right angles shall be tested. If the sample has
individual boards are less than 36 by 48 in. (0.9 by 1.2 m) in
a dimension less than 15 in. (381 mm), test only in that
size, enough material shall be taken to give the equivalent area.
direction for which a 15 in. (381 mm) specimen can be
obtained.
6. Test Conditions
10.3 Procedure—Determine the transverse load by placing
6.1 Preconditioning—Tests shall be made under prevailing
the specimen on horizontal bearing edges 12 in. (305 mm)
atmosphericconditionsexceptinthecaseofdispute.Teststhen
apart and applying the load at midspan on a bearing parallel to
shall be made on specimens conditioned until equilibrium is
the end supports, so that the head of the testing machines,
obtained in accordance with Practice C870.
through which the load is applied, moves at a rate of 6 6 2
7. Thickness in./min (152 6 51 mm/min) until failure occurs.
7.1 Apparatus—An instrument such as a dial gage capable 10.4 Calculation and Report—Report as the transverse load
ofmeasuringa36by48in.(0.9by12m)sample,onwhichthe for specimen, the maximum load reached during the test.
contacting surfaces are flat and have a minimum diameter of ⁄2 Report as the average transverse load in pounds-force (or
C209 − 20
Newtons) in each direction for a sample, the average of three of the jaws shall be disregarded. Measure the specimens, after
specimens taken from that direction. Report as the total breaking, for width and thickness at the break to the nearest
aver
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: C209 − 15 C209 − 20
Standard Test Methods for
Cellulosic Fiber Insulating Board
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C209; 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.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope
1.1 These test methods cover those insulation products in specified Specification C208. The requirements for the products’
physical properties are specified in Specification C208. The methods for the general insulation products’ physical properties are
given as follows:
Section
Thickness 7
Size of Finished Board 8
Thermal Conductivity 9
Transverse Strength 10
Deflection at Specified Minimum Load 11
Tensile Strength Parallel to Surface 12
Tensile Strength Perpendicular to Surface 13
Water Absorption 14
Linear Expansion 15
Water Vapor Transmission 16
Flame Spread Index 17
Moisture Content and Density 18
Compressive Strength 19
1.2 Reference is provided to an established source for nomenclature and definitions.
1.3 Several of the test methods contained in this document are referenced by material specifications other than cellulosic fiber
insulating board. These include mineral fiber, perlite, polyisocyanurate, polystyrene and phenolic materials.
1.4 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 safety, health, and healthenvironmental practices and determine the
applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.4 Several of the test methods contained in this document are referenced by material specifications other than cellulosic fiber
insulating board. These include mineral fiber, perlite, polyisocyanurate, polystyrene and phenolic materials.
1.5 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.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
C165 Test Method for Measuring Compressive Properties of Thermal Insulations
C168 Terminology Relating to Thermal Insulation
C177 Test Method for Steady-State Heat Flux Measurements and Thermal Transmission Properties by Means of the
Guarded-Hot-Plate Apparatus
C208 Specification for Cellulosic Fiber Insulating Board
C303 Test Method for Dimensions and Density of Preformed Block and Board–Type Thermal Insulation
C518 Test Method for Steady-State Thermal Transmission Properties by Means of the Heat Flow Meter Apparatus
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C16 on Thermal Insulation and are the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C16.32 on Mechanical
Properties.
Current edition approved Oct. 1, 2015March 15, 2020. Published October 2015March 2020. Originally approved in 1946. Last previous edition approved in 20122015
as C209 – 12.C209 – 15. DOI: 10.1520/C0209-15.10.1520/C0209-20.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
C209 − 20
C870 Practice for Conditioning of Thermal Insulating Materials
C1045 Practice for Calculating Thermal Transmission Properties Under Steady-State Conditions
C1114 Test Method for Steady-State Thermal Transmission Properties by Means of the Thin-Heater Apparatus
C1616 Test Method for Determining the Moisture Content of Organic and Inorganic Insulation Materials by Weight
C1763 Test Method for Water Absorption by Immersion of Thermal Insulation Materials
D1037 Test Methods for Evaluating Properties of Wood-Base Fiber and Particle Panel Materials
D1554 Terminology Relating to Wood-Base Fiber and Particle Panel Materials
E84 Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
E96/E96M Test Methods for Water Vapor Transmission of Materials
E177 Practice for Use of the Terms Precision and Bias in ASTM Test Methods
E691 Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to Determine the Precision of a Test Method
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—The definitions of terms used in these methods shall be in accordance with Definitions D1554 and Terminology
C168.
3.2 cellulosic fiber insulating board—a fibrous-felted, homogeneous panel made from ligno-cellulosic fibers (usually wood )
3 3 3 3
and having a density of less than 31 lb/ft (497 kg/m ) but more than 10 lb/ft (160 kg/m ).
3.2.1 Discussion—
Cellulosic fiber insulating board. It is characterized by an integral bond that is produced by interfelting of the fibers, but which
has not been consolidated under heat and pressure as a separate stage in manufacture. Other materials may be added during
manufacture to improve certain properties.
3.3 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.3.1 board—refers to the material as received.
3.3.2 sample—refers to the 36 by 48-in. (0.9 by 1.2-m) piece cut from a board.
3.3.3 test specimen—refers to the test piece cut from a sample unless otherwise specified in the test method.
3.3.4 sorption—a general term in physical chemistry used to describe the combined processes of:
(1) absorption—refers to the taking up of matter in bulk by other matter, for example, the penetration of substances into the
bulk of another solid or liquid.
(2) adsorption—refers to surface retention or adhesion of an extremely thin layer of molecules to the surfaces of solids or
liquids with which they are in contact.
4. Significance and Use
4.1 The test methods contained in this document are intended for cellulosic fiber insulating board as described in Specification
C208. These test methods examine mechanical, physical and thermal properties, properties related to water absorption and water
vapor exposure, and flammability related properties.
4.2 The results of these tests are suitable to describe the performance of insulating board and are also suitable for use in material
specifications.
NOTE 1—Committee C-16 is in the process of splitting this document into discrete test methods categorized by the nature of the test methods.
5. Sampling
5.1 Selection of Boards—Refer to Specification C208, Section 9 on Sampling.
5.2 Size of Sample—From each board a sample, 36 by 48 in. (0.9 by 1.2 m) shall be cut. When possible, the larger dimension
of the sample shall be crosswise of the longer dimension of the board as it is usually obtained. When the individual boards are
less than 36 by 48 in. (0.9 by 1.2 m) in size, enough material shall be taken to give the equivalent area.
6. Test Conditions
6.1 Preconditioning—Tests shall be made under prevailing atmospheric conditions except in the case of dispute. Tests then shall
be made on specimens conditioned until equilibrium is obtained in accordance with Practice C870.
7. Thickness
7.1 Apparatus—An instrument such as a dial gage capable of measuring a 36 by 48 in. (0.9 by 12 m) sample, on which the
contacting surfaces are flat and have a minimum diameter of ⁄2 in. (13 mm) shall be used. Pressure on the contacting surfaces shall
not be greater than 1 psi (6.9 kPa) nor less than 0.25 psi (1.7 kPa), and the instrument shall read to an accuracy of 0.001 in. (0.03
mm).
C209 − 20
7.2 Procedure—Measure the thickness at five points, near each corner and near the center, to an accuracy of 60.001 in. (60.02
mm). Take care that the sample is not deformed when the thickness measurements are taken.
7.3 Calculation and Report—Report the average of the five measurements as the average thickness of the sample. Report as the
average thickness of the sample, the average thickness of the lot, report thickness tolerance, as follows:
Thickness tolerance 5 h 2 h /h (1)
~ !
1 2 1
where:
h = average thickness of lot, and
h = average thickness of sample.
8. Size of Finished Board
8.1 Procedure—Obtain the average width of the finished board by measuring the width at each end and at the middle to an
accuracy of 60.3 % or ⁄16 in. (2 mm), whichever is smaller, and averaging these readings. Obtain the average length of the finished
board in a similar manner.
9. Thermal Conductivity
9.1 Procedure—Determine thermal conductivity in accordance with Test Method C177, or in accordance with Test Methods
C518, C1045 or C1114. Test two specimens from one sample from one board.
10. Transverse Strength
10.1 Apparatus:
10.1.1 Testing Machine—Any standard mechanical or hydraulic testing machine capable of applying and measuring the required
load within an accuracy of 62 % is suitable for use.
10.1.2 Bearing Edges—The bearing edges shall be rounded to a radius of ⁄8 in. (10 mm) to prevent injury to the specimen. The
bearing edges shall be straight and shall maintain full contact with the specimen throughout the test.
10.2 Test Specimen—The specimen shall be 3 by 15 in. (76 by 381 mm) and conditioned in accordance with 6.1. Three
specimens from the long dimension of each sample from each board and three at right angles shall be tested. If the sample has
a dimension less than 15 in. (381 mm), test only in that direction for which a 15 in. (381 mm) specimen can be obtained.
10.3 Procedure—Determine the transverse load by placing the specimen on horizontal bearing edges 12 in. (305 mm) apart and
applying the load at midspan on a bearing parallel to the end supports, so that the head of the testing machines, through which
the load is applied, moves at a rate of 6 6 2 in./min (152 6 51 mm/min) until failure occurs.
10.4 Calculation and Report—Report as the transverse load for specimen, the maximum load reached during the test. Report
as the average transverse load in pounds-force (or Newtons) in each direction for a sample, the average of three specimens taken
from that direction. Report as the total average transverse load in each direction, the average of all samples in that direction.
Calculate modulus of rupture values in pounds-force per square inch (or megapascals) as follows:
MOR 5 6P/t (2)
where:
MOR = Modulus of rupture, psi (MPa),
P = Transverse load, lbf (N), and
t = thickness, in. (mm).
10.5 Precision and Bias—See Section 20.
11. Deflection at Specific Minimum Load
11.1 Procedure—Determine, to the nearest 0.01 in. (0.3 mm), the deflection at the corner of each specimen subjected to the
minimum transverse load, by means of a suitable measuring device such as a dial gage under the specimen, a steel rule alongside
the specimen, or measurement of the crosshead movement.
11.2 Calculation and Report—Report as the average deflection in each direction for a sample, the average of three specimens
taken from that direction. Report as the total average deflection in each direction, the average of all samples in that direction.
11.3 Precision and Bias—See Section 20.
12. Tensile Strength Parallel to Surface
12.1 Apparatus—Any standard mechanical or hydraulic testing machine capable of applying and measuring the required load
within an accuracy of 62 % is suitable for use.
12.2 Test Specimen—Specimens shall be prepared in accordance with Fig. 1, and conditioned in accordance with 6.1. Three
specimens from the long direction of each sample from each board and three at right angles thereto shall be tested.
C209 − 20
SI Equivalents
in. mm in. mm
10 254 2 51
6 152 1 ⁄2 38
3 76
FIG. 1 Specimen for Determination of Tensile Strength Parallel to Surface
12.3 Procedure—Set the testing machine for a rate of separation of the jaws of 2 6 ⁄4 in./min (51 6 6 mm/min). Clamp the
specimens in the jaws at a minimum distance of 6 in. (152 mm) apart. Specimens breaking within ⁄2 in. (13 mm) of the jaws shall
be disregarded. Measure the specimens, after breaking, for width and thickness at the break to the nearest 0.01 in. (0.3 mm).
12.4 Calculation and Report—Report as the average tensile strength in each direction for a sample, the average, in pounds-force
per square inch (or kilopascals), of the three specimens taken from that direction. Report as the total average value in each
direction, the average of all samples in that direction.
12.5 Precision and Bias—See Section 20.
13. Tensile Strength Perpendicular to Surface
13.1 Apparatus—The apparatus shall be as shown in Fig. 2 and shall consist of two blocks 2 by 2 by 1 ⁄4 in. (51 by 51 by 32
mm) supplied with hooks in the center as shown in Fig. 2. Any standard mechanical or hydraulic testing machine capable of
applying and measuring the required load within an accuracy of 62 % is suitable for use.
13.2 Test Specimens—The specimen shall be cut to match the lateral dimensions of the test block in 13.1 and conditione
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