ASTM C647-19
(Guide)Standard Guide to Properties and Tests of Mastics and Coating Finishes for Thermal Insulation
Standard Guide to Properties and Tests of Mastics and Coating Finishes for Thermal Insulation
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 Each of the properties listed should be considered in selecting materials for specific projects. A list of the selected properties with limiting values assigned will form a part of the product specification.
4.2 All of the properties are not required, and all of the tests outlined are not required. A condition to any specification must be an evaluation of the proposed use to determine which properties shall be required.
4.3 Membrane reinforcements are frequently specified and used with mastics and coatings. Service properties of such systems of finishes are often different from the unreinforced finishes; therefore, it is essential to test specimens of the reinforced system.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide identifies properties of mastics and coating finishes characterizing their performance as finishes for thermal insulation.
1.2 These properties relate to application and service. Each property is defined, and its significance and suggested test methods are described.
1.3 The properties appear in the following order in this guide.
Paragraph
Application Properties
6
Consistency
6.1
Coverage
6.2
Build
6.3
Wet Flammability
6.4
Toxicity
6.5
Temperature and Humidity Range
6.6
Surface Wetting and Adhesion
6.7
Gap Filling and Bridging
6.8
Sizing and Sealing
6.9
Corrosion or Solvent Attack
6.10
Drying Time and Curing Time
6.11
Shrinkage
6.12
Storage Stability
6.13
Freeze-Thaw Stability
6.14
Service Properties
7
Specimen Preparation
7.1
Outdoor Durability
7.2
Environmental Resistance
7.3
Temperature Limits
7.3.1
Chemicals and Water Resistance
7.3.2
Mold and Mildew Resistance
7.3.3
Surface Flammability
7.4
Water-Vapor Transmission Rate
7.5
Adhesion
7.6
Damage Resistance
7.7
Impact Resistance
7.7.1
Abrasion Resistance
7.7.2
Stress Resistance
7.8
Flexure
7.8.1
Elongation
7.8.2
Color
7.9
Odor
7.10
Other Properties
8
1.4 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.
1.5 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
- 28-Feb-2019
- Technical Committee
- C16 - Thermal Insulation
- Drafting Committee
- C16.33 - Insulation Finishes and Moisture
Relations
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2019
- Effective Date
- 15-Apr-2024
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2024
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2023
- Effective Date
- 15-Nov-2023
- Effective Date
- 01-Sep-2023
- Effective Date
- 01-Aug-2020
- Effective Date
- 01-Jun-2020
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2020
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2020
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2019
- Refers
ASTM C755-19b - Standard Practice for Selection of Water Vapor Retarders for Thermal Insulation - Effective Date
- 15-Oct-2019
- Refers
ASTM C755-19a - Standard Practice for Selection of Water Vapor Retarders for Thermal Insulation - Effective Date
- 01-Sep-2019
- Effective Date
- 01-Jul-2019
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2019
Overview
ASTM C647-19: Standard Guide to Properties and Tests of Mastics and Coating Finishes for Thermal Insulation provides a comprehensive framework for evaluating the performance characteristics of mastics and coatings used as protective finishes over thermal insulation. Developed by ASTM International, this guide is an essential reference for professionals involved in the specification, selection, and application of insulation finishes in a variety of building and industrial environments.
This standard identifies both application and service properties pertinent to mastics and coatings, including key performance metrics and appropriate test methods. The guide ensures that users can assess finishes based on criteria crucial to the successful installation and effective long-term performance of insulation systems.
Key Topics
ASTM C647-19 addresses properties of mastics and coating finishes in two main categories:
Application Properties
- Consistency (workability of the material)
- Coverage (surface area covered per unit)
- Build (thickness attainable without sag or drip)
- Wet flammability and toxicity (application safety)
- Temperature and humidity range for application
- Surface wetting and adhesion (substrate compatibility)
- Gap filling, sizing, sealing, and bridging capabilities
- Corrosion or solvent attack on substrates
- Drying and curing times
- Shrinkage during curing
- Storage and freeze-thaw stability
Service Properties
- Outdoor durability (weather resistance)
- Environmental resistance (temperature limits, chemical/water resistance, mold/mildew resistance)
- Surface flammability (fire safety post-installation)
- Water-vapor transmission rate (importance for vapor barriers or breathability)
- Adhesion and damage resistance (voicing impact and abrasion resistance)
- Stress resistance (flexure and elongation)
- Color and odor (aesthetic and environmental considerations)
- Other occasional properties (bleed resistance, dielectric strength, gloss, water absorption)
ASTM C647-19 emphasizes the significance of selecting relevant properties and tests for each project, as all properties or tests may not be applicable in every scenario.
Applications
ASTM C647-19 is widely used in multiple industries where thermal insulation is critical, including:
- Commercial and industrial building construction
- HVAC systems and ductwork insulation
- Piping and equipment insulation in power plants and refineries
- Cold storage and refrigerated facility construction
The guide supports:
- Material selection for vapor-retarder or vapor-permeable applications (such as for below- or above-ambient temperature service)
- Evaluation and specification of coatings and mastics based on performance under environmental conditions, mechanical stress, and chemical exposure
- Integration of membrane reinforcements, accounting for their impact on overall system performance
- Quality control and assurance through defined test methods
By following ASTM C647-19 during the design and installation phases, stakeholders can reduce risks such as insulation failure, corrosion, fire hazards, and premature material degradation.
Related Standards
ASTM C647-19 references and complements a variety of relevant ASTM standards, including:
- ASTM C168 - Terminology Relating to Thermal Insulation
- ASTM C419 - Practice for Making and Curing Test Specimens of Mastic Thermal Insulation Coatings
- ASTM C461 - Test Methods for Mastics and Coatings Used with Thermal Insulation
- ASTM C488 - Test Method for Exterior Exposure of Finishes for Thermal Insulation
- ASTM C755 - Practice for Selection of Water Vapor Retarders for Thermal Insulation
- ASTM D562, D903, D1654, D2485, D2444, E96/E96M - Various test methods for evaluating physical and chemical properties
These related standards provide targeted test procedures and terminology that facilitate compliance with ASTM C647-19 and ensure consistent, reliable results across the thermal insulation industry.
Keywords: mastics and coatings, coating finishes, thermal insulation, application properties, service properties, ASTM C647, insulation protection, adhesion, durability, vapor barrier, fire resistance, material testing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM C647-19 is a guide published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Guide to Properties and Tests of Mastics and Coating Finishes for Thermal Insulation". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 4.1 Each of the properties listed should be considered in selecting materials for specific projects. A list of the selected properties with limiting values assigned will form a part of the product specification. 4.2 All of the properties are not required, and all of the tests outlined are not required. A condition to any specification must be an evaluation of the proposed use to determine which properties shall be required. 4.3 Membrane reinforcements are frequently specified and used with mastics and coatings. Service properties of such systems of finishes are often different from the unreinforced finishes; therefore, it is essential to test specimens of the reinforced system. SCOPE 1.1 This guide identifies properties of mastics and coating finishes characterizing their performance as finishes for thermal insulation. 1.2 These properties relate to application and service. Each property is defined, and its significance and suggested test methods are described. 1.3 The properties appear in the following order in this guide. Paragraph Application Properties 6 Consistency 6.1 Coverage 6.2 Build 6.3 Wet Flammability 6.4 Toxicity 6.5 Temperature and Humidity Range 6.6 Surface Wetting and Adhesion 6.7 Gap Filling and Bridging 6.8 Sizing and Sealing 6.9 Corrosion or Solvent Attack 6.10 Drying Time and Curing Time 6.11 Shrinkage 6.12 Storage Stability 6.13 Freeze-Thaw Stability 6.14 Service Properties 7 Specimen Preparation 7.1 Outdoor Durability 7.2 Environmental Resistance 7.3 Temperature Limits 7.3.1 Chemicals and Water Resistance 7.3.2 Mold and Mildew Resistance 7.3.3 Surface Flammability 7.4 Water-Vapor Transmission Rate 7.5 Adhesion 7.6 Damage Resistance 7.7 Impact Resistance 7.7.1 Abrasion Resistance 7.7.2 Stress Resistance 7.8 Flexure 7.8.1 Elongation 7.8.2 Color 7.9 Odor 7.10 Other Properties 8 1.4 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. 1.5 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.
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 4.1 Each of the properties listed should be considered in selecting materials for specific projects. A list of the selected properties with limiting values assigned will form a part of the product specification. 4.2 All of the properties are not required, and all of the tests outlined are not required. A condition to any specification must be an evaluation of the proposed use to determine which properties shall be required. 4.3 Membrane reinforcements are frequently specified and used with mastics and coatings. Service properties of such systems of finishes are often different from the unreinforced finishes; therefore, it is essential to test specimens of the reinforced system. SCOPE 1.1 This guide identifies properties of mastics and coating finishes characterizing their performance as finishes for thermal insulation. 1.2 These properties relate to application and service. Each property is defined, and its significance and suggested test methods are described. 1.3 The properties appear in the following order in this guide. Paragraph Application Properties 6 Consistency 6.1 Coverage 6.2 Build 6.3 Wet Flammability 6.4 Toxicity 6.5 Temperature and Humidity Range 6.6 Surface Wetting and Adhesion 6.7 Gap Filling and Bridging 6.8 Sizing and Sealing 6.9 Corrosion or Solvent Attack 6.10 Drying Time and Curing Time 6.11 Shrinkage 6.12 Storage Stability 6.13 Freeze-Thaw Stability 6.14 Service Properties 7 Specimen Preparation 7.1 Outdoor Durability 7.2 Environmental Resistance 7.3 Temperature Limits 7.3.1 Chemicals and Water Resistance 7.3.2 Mold and Mildew Resistance 7.3.3 Surface Flammability 7.4 Water-Vapor Transmission Rate 7.5 Adhesion 7.6 Damage Resistance 7.7 Impact Resistance 7.7.1 Abrasion Resistance 7.7.2 Stress Resistance 7.8 Flexure 7.8.1 Elongation 7.8.2 Color 7.9 Odor 7.10 Other Properties 8 1.4 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. 1.5 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.
ASTM C647-19 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 91.100.60 - Thermal and sound insulating materials. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ASTM C647-19 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM C647-08(2013), ASTM C168-24, ASTM E96/E96M-24, ASTM E84-23d, ASTM E96/E96M-23, ASTM E84-23c, ASTM D93-20, ASTM F1249-20, ASTM D2453-15(2020)e1, ASTM D36/D36M-14(2020), ASTM D3134-15(2019), ASTM C755-19b, ASTM C755-19a, ASTM E84-19b, ASTM C681-14(2019). Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ASTM C647-19 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
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: C647 − 19
Standard Guide to
Properties and Tests of Mastics and Coating Finishes for
Thermal Insulation
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C647; 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
Other Properties 8
1.1 This guide identifies properties of mastics and coating 1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
finishes characterizing their performance as finishes for ther-
mal insulation. conversions to SI units that are provided for information only
and are not considered standard.
1.2 These properties relate to application and service. Each
1.5 This international standard was developed in accor-
property is defined, and its significance and suggested test
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
methods are described.
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
1.3 The properties appear in the following order in this
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
guide.
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
Paragraph
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Application Properties 6
Consistency 6.1
2. Referenced Documents
Coverage 6.2
Build 6.3
2.1 ASTM Standards:
Wet Flammability 6.4
Toxicity 6.5 C168 Terminology Relating to Thermal Insulation
Temperature and Humidity Range 6.6
C419 Practice for Making and Curing Test Specimens of
Surface Wetting and Adhesion 6.7
Mastic Thermal Insulation Coatings
Gap Filling and Bridging 6.8
Sizing and Sealing 6.9
C461 Test Methods for Mastics and Coatings Used With
Corrosion or Solvent Attack 6.10
Thermal Insulation
Drying Time and Curing Time 6.11
C488 Test Method for Conducting Exterior Exposure Tests
Shrinkage 6.12
Storage Stability 6.13
of Finishes for Thermal Insulation
Freeze-Thaw Stability 6.14
C681 Test Method for Volatility of Oil- and Resin-Based,
Service Properties 7
Knife-Grade, Channel Glazing Compounds
Specimen Preparation 7.1
Outdoor Durability 7.2
C755 Practice for Selection of Water Vapor Retarders for
Environmental Resistance 7.3
Thermal Insulation
Temperature Limits 7.3.1
C792 TestMethodforEffectsofHeatAgingonWeightLoss,
Chemicals and Water Resistance 7.3.2
Mold and Mildew Resistance 7.3.3
Cracking, and Chalking of Elastomeric Sealants
Surface Flammability 7.4
D36/D36M Test Method for Softening Point of Bitumen
Water-Vapor Transmission Rate 7.5
(Ring-and-Ball Apparatus)
Adhesion 7.6
Damage Resistance 7.7
D56 Test Method for Flash Point by Tag Closed Cup Tester
Impact Resistance 7.7.1
D92 Test Method for Flash and Fire Points by Cleveland
Abrasion Resistance 7.7.2
Open Cup Tester
Stress Resistance 7.8
Flexure 7.8.1
D93 Test Methods for Flash Point by Pensky-Martens
Elongation 7.8.2
Closed Cup Tester
Color 7.9
D543 Practices for Evaluating the Resistance of Plastics to
Odor 7.10
Chemical Reagents
D562 Test Method for Consistency of Paints Measuring
This guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C16 on Thermal
Insulation and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C16.33 on Insulation
Finishes and Moisture. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved March 1, 2019. Published April 2019. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1969. Last previous edition approved in 2013 as C647 – 08 (2013). Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
DOI: 10.1520/C0647-19. the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
C647 − 19
KrebsUnit(KU)ViscosityUsingaStormer-TypeViscom- E162 Test Method for Surface Flammability of Materials
eter Using a Radiant Heat Energy Source
D638 Test Method for Tensile Properties of Plastics E659 Test Method for Autoignition Temperature of Chemi-
D747 Test Method for Apparent Bending Modulus of Plas- cals
tics by Means of a Cantilever Beam (Withdrawn 2019) F1249 Test Method for Water Vapor Transmission Rate
D790 Test Methods for Flexural Properties of Unreinforced Through Plastic Film and Sheeting Using a Modulated
and Reinforced Plastics and Electrical Insulating Materi- Infrared Sensor
als G21 Practice for Determining Resistance of Synthetic Poly-
D822/D822M Practice for Filtered Open-Flame Carbon-Arc meric Materials to Fungi
Exposures of Paint and Related Coatings
3. Terminology
D903 Test Method for Peel or Stripping Strength of Adhe-
sive Bonds
3.1 Terminology C168 shall be considered as applying to
D968 Test Methods for Abrasion Resistance of Organic
the terms used in this specification.
Coatings by Falling Abrasive
3.2 General Definitions:
D1310 TestMethodforFlashPointandFirePointofLiquids
3.2.1 application properties—properties that influence or
by Tag Open-Cup Apparatus
affect the effective installation of finishes.
D1640 Test Methods for Drying, Curing, or Film Formation
3.2.2 coating—a liquid or semiliquid protective finish ca-
of Organic Coatings
pable of application to thermal insulation or other surfaces,
D1654 Test Method for Evaluation of Painted or Coated
usually by brush or spray, in moderate thickness, 30 mils (0.76
Specimens Subjected to Corrosive Environments
mm).
D1729 Practice for Visual Appraisal of Colors and Color
Differences of Diffusely-Illuminated Opaque Materials
3.2.3 mastic—a protective finish of relatively thick consis-
D1849 Test Method for Package Stability of Paint
tency capable of application to thermal insulation or other
D2196 Test Methods for Rheological Properties of Non-
surfaces usually by spray or trowel, in thick coats greater than
Newtonian Materials by Rotational Viscometer
30 mils (0.03 in.) (0.76 mm).
D2243 Test Method for Freeze-Thaw Resistance of Water-
3.2.4 service properties—properties that govern perfor-
Borne Coatings
mance of finishes after installation.
D2354 Test Method for Minimum Film FormationTempera-
3.3 Specific Definitions—Terms specific to Sections 6 and 7
ture (MFFT) of Emulsion Vehicles
are defined as appropriate.
D2444 Practice for Determination of the Impact Resistance
of Thermoplastic Pipe and Fittings by Means of a Tup
4. Significance and Use
(Falling Weight)
4.1 Each of the properties listed should be considered in
D2453 Test Method for Shrinkage and Tenacity of Oil- and
selecting materials for specific projects. A list of the selected
Resin-Base Caulking Compounds
properties with limiting values assigned will form a part of the
D2485 Test Methods for Evaluating Coatings For High
product specification.
Temperature Service
D2507 Terminology of Rheological Properties of Gelled
4.2 All of the properties are not required, and all of the tests
Rocket Propellants (Withdrawn 2003)
outlined are not required.Acondition to any specification must
D3134 Practice for Establishing Color and Gloss Tolerances
be an evaluation of the proposed use to determine which
D3274 Test Method for Evaluating Degree of Surface Dis-
properties shall be required.
figurement of Paint Films by Fungal or Algal Growth, or
4.3 Membrane reinforcements are frequently specified and
Soil and Dirt Accumulation
used with mastics and coatings. Service properties of such
D3361/D3361M Practice for Unfiltered Open-Flame
systems of finishes are often different from the unreinforced
Carbon-Arc Exposures of Paint and Related Coatings
finishes; therefore, it is essential to test specimens of the
D3828 Test Methods for Flash Point by Small Scale Closed
reinforced system.
Cup Tester
D4339 Test Method for Determination of the Odor of
5. Classification of Mastics and Coatings
Adhesives
5.1 Vapor-Retarder Type—A finish intended for service on
D5590 Test Method for Determining the Resistance of Paint
insulated units that are operated below ambient temperature at
Films and Related Coatings to Fungal Defacement by
least part of the time.
Accelerated Four-Week Agar Plate Assay
E84 Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of
NOTE 1—Practice C755 provides additional guidance.
Building Materials
5.1.1 Outdoor service.
E96/E96M Test Methods for Water Vapor Transmission of
5.1.2 Indoor service.
Materials
5.2 Vapor-Permeable Type—Afinishintendedforserviceon
insulated units that are operated above ambient temperature.
(See 7.6.2. Sometimes referred to as a “breather” finish.)
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
www.astm.org. 5.2.1 Outdoor service.
C647 − 19
5.2.2 Indoor service. labels and safety data sheets must describe legally and ad-
equately any health hazard involved in using the product.
6. Application Properties 6.5.3 Technical Evaluation—Test as recommended by
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists.
6.1 Consistency:
6.1.1 Definition—the resistance of a non-Newtonian mate- 6.6 Temperature and Humidity Range (during application):
rial to deformation or flow.
6.6.1 Definition—the limiting temperatures and relative hu-
midities between which practical application of finish is made
NOTE 2—Consistency is not a fundamental property but is made up of
without adverse effect on service properties.
viscosity, plasticity, and other rheological phenomena (see Terminology
D2507). In non-Newtonian behavior, usual for mastics and coatings for 6.6.2 Significance and Use—Application of finishes under
thermal insulation, the ratio of shearing stress to the rate of shearing strain
extremes of atmospheric temperature or humidity, or both, will
varies with the shearing stress.
potentially hinder or prevent attainment of necessary coverage
6.1.2 Significance and Use—Consistency determines and proper cure, thus changing performance properties signifi-
whether a mastic or coating can be troweled, applied by gloved cantly. The temperature of the surface to which the finish is
hand, brushed, or sprayed. It has a direct effect on application applied also must be considered.
costs. 6.6.3 Technical Evaluation—Test Method D2354, and prod-
6.1.3 Technical Evaluation—TestMethodsC461,D562,and uctapplicationtestsmadeatmaximumandminimumvaluesof
D2196. temperature and humidity in stated design conditions.
6.2 Coverage:
6.7 Surface Wetting and Adhesion:
6.2.1 Definition—the measure of surface area in ft /gal 6.7.1 Definition—themutualaffinityofthebondingbetween
2 2
(m /litre) (coatings) or gallons per 100 ft (mastics) at which finish and the surface to which it is applied.
finish must be applied to obtain specified dry thickness and
6.7.2 Significance and Use—Coatings and mastics must wet
desired performance.
and bond readily to insulation surfaces without special treat-
6.2.2 Significance and Use—The performance of finishes is ments or application techniques, or both. Ease and cost of
related directly to the optimum dry thickness. Therefore,
application require good surface wetting and adhesion.
performance properties must be defined in terms of optimum
6.7.3 Technical Evaluation—Closely observe during finish
dry thickness, and this value must be established for applica-
application under real or simulated field conditions.
tion purposes in terms of coverage. Coverage data are essential
6.8 Gap Filling and Bridging:
for estimating material quantities and costs.
6.8.1 Definition—the ability to bridge, fill, and level joints
6.2.3 Technical Evaluation—Test Methods C461.
and gaps in installed thermal insulation.
6.3 Build:
6.8.2 Significance and Use—Joints and gaps exist in in-
6.3.1 Definition—the thickness to which a coating or mastic
stalled block and blanket insulation. If these are not filled or
finish can be applied without sagging, running, sliding, or
bridged adequately, the protective value of the finish will be
dripping.
impaired seriously.
6.3.2 Significance and Use—Finishes for thermal insulation
6.8.3 Technical Evaluation—Apply finish over insulation in
must be capable of application on vertical or overhead surfaces
real or simulated field conditions over typical joints and gaps.
at specified coverage without subsequent reduction in
Follow with destructive examination to determine effective-
thickness, caused by excessive flow or slump. Build also
ness.
determines the number of coats required for optimum dry
6.9 Sizing and Sealing:
thickness.
6.9.1 Definition—the ability of a finish to resist excessive
6.3.3 Technical Evaluation—Test Methods C461.
absorption into porous insulation.
6.4 Wet Flammability (during application):
6.9.2 Significance and Use—Excessive penetration of fin-
6.4.1 Definition—the relative ease of ignition and conse-
ishes into insulation will affect adversely the performance of
quent fire hazard of a finish during application, as indicated by
the finish and the thermal conductivity of the insulation.
its flash point, fire point, and fuel contribution.
6.9.3 Technical Evaluation—Apply fin
...
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: C647 − 08 (Reapproved 2013) C647 − 19
Standard Guide to
Properties and Tests of Mastics and Coating Finishes for
Thermal Insulation
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C647; 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
1.1 This guide identifies properties of mastics and coating finishes characterizing their performance as finishes for thermal
insulation.
1.2 These properties relate to application and service. Each property is defined, and its significance and suggested test methods
are described.
1.3 The properties appear in the following order in this guide.
Paragraph
Application Properties 6
Consistency 6.1
Coverage 6.2
Build 6.3
Wet Flammability 6.4
Toxicity 6.5
Temperature and Humidity Range 6.6
Surface Wetting and Adhesion 6.7
Gap Filling and Bridging 6.8
Sizing and Sealing 6.9
Corrosion or Solvent Attack 6.10
Drying Time and Curing Time 6.11
Shrinkage 6.12
Storage Stability 6.13
Freeze-Thaw Stability 6.14
Service Properties 7
Specimen Preparation 7.1
Outdoor Durability 7.2
Environmental Resistance 7.3
Temperature Limits 7.3.1
Chemicals and Water Resistance 7.3.2
Mold and Mildew Resistance 7.3.3
Surface Flammability 7.4
Water-Vapor Transmission Rate 7.5
Adhesion 7.6
Damage Resistance 7.7
Impact Resistance 7.7.1
Abrasion Resistance 7.7.2
Stress Resistance 7.8
Flexure 7.8.1
Elongation 7.8.2
Color 7.9
Odor 7.10
Other Properties 8
1.4 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.
1.5 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.
This guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C16 on Thermal Insulation and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C16.33 on Insulation Finishes and
Moisture.
Current edition approved Nov. 1, 2013March 1, 2019. Published January 2014April 2019. Originally approved in 1969. Last previous edition approved in 20082013 as
C647 – 08 (2013).). DOI: 10.1520/C0647-08R13.10.1520/C0647-19.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
C647 − 19
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
C168 Terminology Relating to Thermal Insulation
C419 Practice for Making and Curing Test Specimens of Mastic Thermal Insulation Coatings
C461 Test Methods for Mastics and Coatings Used With Thermal Insulation
C488 Test Method for Conducting Exterior Exposure Tests of Finishes for Thermal Insulation
C639 Test Method for Rheological (Flow) Properties of Elastomeric Sealants
C681 Test Method for Volatility of Oil- and Resin-Based, Knife-Grade, Channel Glazing Compounds
C733 Test Method for Volume Shrinkage of Latex Sealants (Withdrawn 2000)
C755 Practice for Selection of Water Vapor Retarders for Thermal Insulation
C792 Test Method for Effects of Heat Aging on Weight Loss, Cracking, and Chalking of Elastomeric Sealants
D36/D36M Test Method for Softening Point of Bitumen (Ring-and-Ball Apparatus)
D56 Test Method for Flash Point by Tag Closed Cup Tester
D92 Test Method for Flash and Fire Points by Cleveland Open Cup Tester
D93 Test Methods for Flash Point by Pensky-Martens Closed Cup Tester
D529 Practice for Enclosed Carbon-Arc Exposures of Bituminous Materials (Withdrawn 2013)
D543 Practices for Evaluating the Resistance of Plastics to Chemical Reagents
D562 Test Method for Consistency of Paints Measuring Krebs Unit (KU) Viscosity Using a Stormer-Type Viscometer
D638 Test Method for Tensile Properties of Plastics
D658 Test Method for Abrasion Resistance of Organic Coatings by Air Blast Abrasive (Withdrawn 1996)
D747 Test Method for Apparent Bending Modulus of Plastics by Means of a Cantilever Beam (Withdrawn 2019)
D790 Test Methods for Flexural Properties of Unreinforced and Reinforced Plastics and Electrical Insulating Materials
D822/D822M Practice for Filtered Open-Flame Carbon-Arc Exposures of Paint and Related Coatings
D903 Test Method for Peel or Stripping Strength of Adhesive Bonds
D968 Test Methods for Abrasion Resistance of Organic Coatings by Falling Abrasive
D1310 Test Method for Flash Point and Fire Point of Liquids by Tag Open-Cup Apparatus
D1640 Test Methods for Drying, Curing, or Film Formation of Organic Coatings
D1654 Test Method for Evaluation of Painted or Coated Specimens Subjected to Corrosive Environments
D1729 Practice for Visual Appraisal of Colors and Color Differences of Diffusely-Illuminated Opaque Materials
D1823 Test Method for Apparent Viscosity of Plastisols and Organosols at High Shear Rates by Extrusion Viscometer
D1824 Test Method for Apparent Viscosity of Plastisols and Organosols at Low Shear Rates
D1849 Test Method for Package Stability of Paint
D2196 Test Methods for Rheological Properties of Non-Newtonian Materials by Rotational Viscometer
D2243 Test Method for Freeze-Thaw Resistance of Water-Borne Coatings
D2354 Test Method for Minimum Film Formation Temperature (MFFT) of Emulsion Vehicles
D2444 Practice for Determination of the Impact Resistance of Thermoplastic Pipe and Fittings by Means of a Tup (Falling
Weight)
D2453 Test Method for Shrinkage and Tenacity of Oil- and Resin-Base Caulking Compounds
D2485 Test Methods for Evaluating Coatings For High Temperature Service
D2507 Terminology of Rheological Properties of Gelled Rocket Propellants (Withdrawn 2003)
D2939 Test Methods for Emulsified Bitumens Used as Protective Coatings (Withdrawn 2012)
D3134 Practice for Establishing Color and Gloss Tolerances
D3274 Test Method for Evaluating Degree of Surface Disfigurement of Paint Films by Fungal or Algal Growth, or Soil and Dirt
Accumulation
D3361/D3361M Practice for Unfiltered Open-Flame Carbon-Arc Exposures of Paint and Related Coatings
D3828 Test Methods for Flash Point by Small Scale Closed Cup Tester
D4339 Test Method for Determination of the Odor of Adhesives
D5590 Test Method for Determining the Resistance of Paint Films and Related Coatings to Fungal Defacement by Accelerated
Four-Week Agar Plate Assay
E84 Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
E96/E96M Test Methods for Water Vapor Transmission of Materials
E162 Test Method for Surface Flammability of Materials Using a Radiant Heat Energy Source
E659 Test Method for Autoignition Temperature of Chemicals
F1249 Test Method for Water Vapor Transmission Rate Through Plastic Film and Sheeting Using a Modulated Infrared Sensor
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or 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 the ASTM website.
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on www.astm.org.
C647 − 19
G21 Practice for Determining Resistance of Synthetic Polymeric Materials to Fungi
G23 Practice for Operating Light-Exposure Apparatus (Carbon-Arc Type) With and Without Water for Exposure of Nonmetallic
Materials (Withdrawn 2000)
3. Terminology
3.1 Terminology C168 shall be considered as applying to the terms used in this specification.
3.2 General Definitions:
3.2.1 application properties—properties that influence or affect the effective installation of finishes.
3.2.2 coating—a liquid or semiliquid protective finish capable of application to thermal insulation or other surfaces, usually by
brush or spray, in moderate thickness, 30 mils (0.76 mm).
3.2.3 mastic—a protective finish of relatively thick consistency capable of application to thermal insulation or other surfaces
usually by spray or trowel, in thick coats greater than 30 mils (0.03 in.) (0.76 mm).
3.2.4 service properties—properties that govern performance of finishes after installation.
3.3 Specific Definitions—Terms specific to Sections 6 and 7 are defined as appropriate.
4. Significance and Use
4.1 Each of the properties listed should be considered in selecting materials for specific projects. A list of the selected properties
with limiting values assigned will form a part of the product specification.
4.2 All of the properties may not be pertinent in any specific situation, are not required, and all of the tests outlined mayare not
be required. A condition to any specification must be an evaluation of the proposed use to determine which properties mayshall
be required.
4.3 Membrane reinforcements are frequently specified and used with mastics and coatings. Service properties of such systems
of finishes may beare often different from the unreinforced finishes; therefore, it is essential to test specimens of the reinforced
system.
5. Classification of Mastics and Coatings
5.1 Vapor-Retarder Type—A finish intended for service on insulated units that are operated below ambient temperature at least
part of the time.
NOTE 1—Practice C755 may provide provides additional guidance.
5.1.1 Outdoor service.
5.1.2 Indoor service.
5.2 Vapor-Permeable Type—A finish intended for service on insulated units that are operated above ambient temperature. (See
7.6.2. Sometimes referred to as a “breather” finish.)
5.2.1 Outdoor service.
5.2.2 Indoor service.
6. Application Properties
6.1 Consistency:
6.1.1 Definition—the resistance of a non-Newtonian material to deformation or flow.
NOTE 2—Consistency is not a fundamental property but is made up of viscosity, plasticity, and other rheological phenomena (see Terminology D2507).
In non-Newtonian behavior, usual for mastics and coatings for thermal insulation, the ratio of shearing stress to the rate of shearing strain varies with
the shearing stress.
6.1.2 Significance and Use—Consistency determines whether a mastic or coating can be troweled, applied by gloved hand,
brushed, or sprayed. It has a direct effect on application costs.
6.1.3 Technical Evaluation—Test Methods C461, C639, D562, D1823, D1824, and D2196.
6.2 Coverage:
2 2 2
6.2.1 Definition—the measure of surface area in ft /gal (m /litre) (coatings) or gallons per 100 ft (mastics) at which finish must
be applied to obtain specified dry thickness and desired performance.
6.2.2 Significance and Use—The performance of finishes is related directly to the optimum dry thickness. Therefore,
performance properties must be defined in terms of optimum dry thickness, and this value must be established for application
purposes in terms of coverage. Coverage data are essential for estimating material quantities and costs.
6.2.3 Technical Evaluation—Test Methods C461.
6.3 Build:
6.3.1 Definition—the thickness to which a coating or mastic finish can be applied without sagging, running, sliding, or dripping.
C647 − 19
6.3.2 Significance and Use—Finishes for thermal insulation must be capable of application on vertical or overhead surfaces at
specified coverage without subsequent reduction in thickness, caused by excessive flow or slump. Build also determines the
number of coats required for optimum dry thickness.
6.3.3 Technical Evaluation—Test Methods C461.
6.4 Wet Flammability (during application):
6.4.1 Definition—the relative ease of ignition and consequent fire hazard of a finish during application, as indicated by its flash
point, fire point, and fuel contribution.
6.4.2 Significance and Use—Finishes that contain volatile flammable solvent may will potentially ignite readily from a source
such as welding sparks and spatter, electrical short circuits, open flames, or personnel smoking. Such a fire could will potentially
spread very rapidly over freshly finished surfaces.
6.4.3 Technical Evaluation—Test Methods D56, D92, D93, D1310, and D3828.
6.5 Toxicity:
6.5.1 Definition—harmful physiological response to vapor inhalation or skin contact with finishes during application.
6.5.2 Significance and Use—Finishes shouldshall not adversely affect health of personnel making applications. Container labels
and safety data sheets must describe legally and adequately any health hazard involved in using the product.
6.5.3 Technical Evaluation—Test as recommended by American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists.
6.6 Temperature and Humidity Range (during application):
6.6.1 Definition—the limiting temperatures and relative humidities between which practical application of finish can be is made
without adverse effect on service properties.
6.6.2 Significance and Use—Application of finishes under extremes of atmospheric temperature or humidity, or both, can will
potentially hinder or prevent attainment of necessary coverage and proper cure, thus changing performance properties significantly.
The temperature of the surface to which the finish is applied also must be considered.
6.6.3 Technical Evaluation—Test Method D2354, and product application tests made at maximum and minimum values of
temperature and humidity in stated design conditions.
6.7 Surface Wetting and Adhesion:
6.7.1 Definition—the mutual affinity of the bonding between finish and the surface to which it is applied.
6.7.2 Significance and Use—Coatings and mastics must wet and bond readily to insu
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