ASTM D2377-14(2019)
(Test Method)Standard Test Method for Tack-Free Time of Caulking Compounds and Sealants
Standard Test Method for Tack-Free Time of Caulking Compounds and Sealants
ABSTRACT
This test method describes the determination of the tack-free time property of caulking compounds and sealants. The method is applicable to both gun and knife grades. Requirements for the apparatus including the cabinet or room, brass sheet, template, steel sheets, plastic strips (polyethylene strips), spatula, and knife blade are given. Methyl ethyl ketone, ethylene dichloride, or similar solvent shall be used. The test specimen shall be sampled from a previously unopened container and shall be thoroughly mixed before using. The method of preparation and conditioning of the test specimen, and the test procedure are detailed. No caulking compound or sealant shall adhere to the polyethylene strip in the test specimen.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method describes the determination of the tack-free time property of caulking compounds and sealants. This test method is applicable to both gun and knife grades.
1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.
1.3 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.
1.4 The committee with jurisdiction over this standard is not aware of any comparable standard published by other organizations.
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
- 30-Apr-2019
- Technical Committee
- C24 - Building Seals and Sealants
- Drafting Committee
- C24.20 - General Test Methods
Relations
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2019
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2019
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2018
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2017
- Effective Date
- 01-Jan-2017
- Effective Date
- 15-Nov-2016
- Effective Date
- 01-Sep-2016
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2014
- Effective Date
- 01-Feb-2014
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2013
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2012
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2012
- Effective Date
- 15-Jan-2012
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2011
- Effective Date
- 15-Jan-2011
Overview
ASTM D2377-14(2019) is the standard test method for determining the tack-free time of caulking compounds and sealants, as published by ASTM International. This method is essential for evaluating the readiness of caulking compounds and sealants for finishing and further processing in construction and manufacturing. The standard applies to both gun grade and knife grade forms, making it widely relevant across a variety of industries.
Tack-free time refers to the period after application during which the surface of the compound or sealant no longer feels sticky (tacky) to the touch. Understanding this property helps ensure proper application timing and performance in building and maintenance projects.
Key Topics
- Tack-Free Time Determination: Defines procedures to assess when caulking compounds and sealants lose surface tackiness under controlled conditions.
- Test Applicability: Suitable for both gun grade and knife grade caulking compounds and sealants.
- Equipment and Materials Required:
- Controlled environment (cabinet or room maintaining standard conditions)
- Standardized templates, steel sheets, and brass sheets
- Plastic (polyethylene) strips
- Mixing tools and solvents (e.g., methyl ethyl ketone, ethylene dichloride)
- Specimen Preparation: Samples must be taken from unopened containers and thoroughly mixed before testing.
- Conditioning: Specimens are conditioned in closed containers at standard temperature and humidity.
- Testing Procedure: Involves exposing specimens for a set period (72 hours for gun grade, 120 hours for knife grade), then checking for non-adherence of the compound to a polyethylene strip.
- Reporting: The outcome states whether the tack-free criteria are met, ensuring quality and consistency for manufacturers and end-users.
- Safety and Compliance: Users must establish safety, health, and environmental practices for handling testing materials and procedures.
Applications
The ASTM D2377-14(2019) standard offers significant value in the following areas:
- Construction and Building Seals: Ensures caulking compounds and sealants are ready for further finishing, painting, or exposure to weather, preventing sticking and contamination.
- Product Quality Assurance: Standardizes measurement for tack-free time, allowing manufacturers to certify their products for consistent performance.
- Research and Development: Assists formulation scientists and product developers in evaluating new or improved sealant products’ curing characteristics.
- Regulatory and Contract Compliance: Enables contractors and inspection professionals to verify that materials meet project specifications and industry requirements.
- Facility Maintenance: Helps maintenance personnel select appropriate sealants with reliable curing times, minimizing downtime and maximizing efficiency.
Related Standards
- ASTM C717: Terminology related to building seals and sealants, referenced for definitions and standard conditions.
- Other ASTM Sealant and Adhesive Standards: While no direct equivalent standards exist from other organizations, ASTM offers a comprehensive suite of methods for sealant testing and performance evaluation.
- ISO and International Standards: Although ASTM D2377-14(2019) is internationally recognized, users should confirm compatibility with local or project-specific regulations as needed.
Keywords: tack-free time, caulking compounds, sealants, ASTM D2377, standard test method, curing properties, building sealants, construction materials, quality assurance, testing procedures.
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Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM D2377-14(2019) is a standard published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Test Method for Tack-Free Time of Caulking Compounds and Sealants". This standard covers: ABSTRACT This test method describes the determination of the tack-free time property of caulking compounds and sealants. The method is applicable to both gun and knife grades. Requirements for the apparatus including the cabinet or room, brass sheet, template, steel sheets, plastic strips (polyethylene strips), spatula, and knife blade are given. Methyl ethyl ketone, ethylene dichloride, or similar solvent shall be used. The test specimen shall be sampled from a previously unopened container and shall be thoroughly mixed before using. The method of preparation and conditioning of the test specimen, and the test procedure are detailed. No caulking compound or sealant shall adhere to the polyethylene strip in the test specimen. SCOPE 1.1 This test method describes the determination of the tack-free time property of caulking compounds and sealants. This test method is applicable to both gun and knife grades. 1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only. 1.3 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. 1.4 The committee with jurisdiction over this standard is not aware of any comparable standard published by other organizations. 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.
ABSTRACT This test method describes the determination of the tack-free time property of caulking compounds and sealants. The method is applicable to both gun and knife grades. Requirements for the apparatus including the cabinet or room, brass sheet, template, steel sheets, plastic strips (polyethylene strips), spatula, and knife blade are given. Methyl ethyl ketone, ethylene dichloride, or similar solvent shall be used. The test specimen shall be sampled from a previously unopened container and shall be thoroughly mixed before using. The method of preparation and conditioning of the test specimen, and the test procedure are detailed. No caulking compound or sealant shall adhere to the polyethylene strip in the test specimen. SCOPE 1.1 This test method describes the determination of the tack-free time property of caulking compounds and sealants. This test method is applicable to both gun and knife grades. 1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only. 1.3 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. 1.4 The committee with jurisdiction over this standard is not aware of any comparable standard published by other organizations. 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 D2377-14(2019) is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 91.100.50 - Binders. Sealing materials. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ASTM D2377-14(2019) has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM D2377-14, ASTM C717-19, ASTM C717-18, ASTM C717-17a, ASTM C717-17, ASTM C717-16a, ASTM C717-16, ASTM C717-14a, ASTM C717-14, ASTM C717-13, ASTM C717-12b, ASTM C717-12a, ASTM C717-12, ASTM C717-11a, ASTM C717-11. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ASTM D2377-14(2019) 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: D2377 − 14 (Reapproved 2019)
Standard Test Method for
Tack-Free Time of Caulking Compounds and Sealants
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D2377; 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.
3 1
1. Scope 4.2 Brass Sheet, ⁄4 by 1 ⁄2 in. (19 by 38 mm), approximately
⁄4 in. (6.4 mm) thick.
1.1 This test method describes the determination of the
tack-free time property of caulking compounds and sealants. 4.3 Template—A rectangular template of steel or brass, ⁄8
This test method is applicable to both gun and knife grades. in. (3.2 mm) thick, 1 by 3 ⁄4 in. (25.4 by 95.1 mm) inside, and
approximately 2 by 4 ⁄4 in. (51 by 121 mm) outside.
1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for 4.4 Steel Sheets—Two rectangular tin-plated steel sheets,
information only. approximately 3 by 5 in. (76 by 127 mm), and of a convenient
thickness.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
4.5 Plastic Strips—Two, clear, low-density polyethylene
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
strips, 1 by 5 in. (25.4 by 127 mm) by 0.004 6 0.001 in.
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
(0.1016 6 0.0254 mm) thick.
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
4.6 Spatula, steel, havinga4to 5-in. (102 to 127-mm) long
1.4 The committee with jurisdiction over this standard is not
narrow blade.
aware of any comparable standard published by other organi-
4.7 Thin Knife Blade.
zations.
1.5 This international standard was developed in accor-
5. Solvent
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
5.1 Methyl Ethyl Ketone, Ethylene Dichloride, or similar
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
solvent.
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical 6. Conditioning
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
6.1 Condition the sample in the original closed container for
at least 5 h at Standard Conditions as defined in Terminology
2. Referenced Documents
C717.
2.1 ASTM Standards:
C717 Terminology of Building Seals and Sealants 7. Sampling
7.1 Take the sealant from a previously unopened container
3. Terminology
and thoroughly mix before using.
3.1 Definitions—Refer to Terminology C717 for definitions
8. Test Specimens
of the following terms: caulking compound, compound, seal-
ant.
8.1 Prepare two test specimens as follows:
8.1.1 Thoroughly mix the conditioned compound and com-
4. Apparatus
pletely clean the template and steel sheets with solvent.
4.1 Cabinet or Room, capable of maintaining Standard
8.1.2 Center the template on the tin panel and carefully fill
Conditions as defined in Terminology C717.
it, avoiding air pockets. Strike off the surface of the compound
flat to a uniform ⁄8-in. (3.2-mm) thickness. With a thin knife
Thistestmethodisunderthejuri
...
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