ISO 13362:2000

Flexible cellular polymeric materials — Determination of compression set under humid conditions

This International Standard specifies a method for determining the compression set of flexible cellular materials under humid conditions. This method consists of maintaining the test piece under specified conditions of time, temperature, humidity and constant compressive strain and determining the effect on the thickness of the test piece after a specified recovery period.

Matériaux polymères alvéolaires souples — Détermination de la déformation rémanente après compression dans des conditions humides

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 01-Nov-2000
• ICS: 83.100 - Cellular materials
• Technical Committee: ISO/TC 45/SC 4 - Products (other than hoses)
• Drafting Committee: ISO/TC 45/SC 4/WG 8 - Flexible and semi-rigid cellular material
• Current Stage: 9093 - International Standard confirmed
• Start Date: 16-Oct-2025
• Completion Date: 14-Feb-2026

Overview

ISO 13362:2000 provides an internationally recognized method for determining the compression set of flexible cellular polymeric materials under humid conditions. The standard specifies procedures for subjecting test pieces to defined time, temperature, humidity, and compressive strain, and for measuring the impact of these conditions on material thickness after recovery. This method is essential for manufacturers and quality assurance professionals who require consistent performance data for materials used in humid environments.

Key Topics

• Scope and Usage
  The standard applies to flexible cellular materials, including foams and sponges based on various polymers, where resistance to permanent deformation in humid conditions is critical.

• Testing Conditions
  The method involves compressing the sample to a specified percentage of its original thickness, exposing it to high humidity (95% - 100% RH) and elevated temperature (around 40°C) for a defined duration, then allowing a recovery period before final measurement.

• Sample Preparation and Conditioning
  Material samples must be prepared following strict guidelines regarding size, shape, and surface characteristics, and conditioned in controlled atmospheres to standardize results.

• Calculation and Reporting
  The compression set is calculated as the percentage loss in thickness after recovery, relative to the original thickness. Reporting requirements ensure traceability and reproducibility of results.

Applications

ISO 13362:2000 is widely used in industries where flexible cellular polymeric materials are subjected to variable humidity, such as:

• Automotive and Transportation
  For seating, gaskets, and acoustic insulation materials that must retain shape and performance in humid climates or after exposure to moisture.

• Building and Construction
  In insulation and sealing products where resistance to permanent deformation from compression under moisture is essential for energy efficiency and structural integrity.

• Consumer Goods
  For packaging, mattresses, cushions, and footwear components that require durability and consistent cushioning over time, even in damp conditions.

• Quality Control and R&D
  Laboratories and manufacturers employ this standard to benchmark product formulations, improve material resilience, and ensure compliance with international specifications.

Related Standards

While ISO 13362:2000 is the primary standard for compression set testing under high humidity, the following are commonly referenced or complementary standards:

• ISO 1923:1981 - Cellular plastics and rubbers - Determination of linear dimensions
  This standard provides procedures for measuring the dimensions of plastics and rubber materials, referenced in ISO 13362 for sample measurement methods.

• ISO/IEC Directives - Governing general procedures for drafting and approving international standards.

• Other ISO Standards for Polymeric Materials
  Additional ISO documents may specify methods for testing tensile strength, elongation, or thermal stability of flexible foams and cellular products.

Practical Value

Implementing the procedures set out in ISO 13362:2000 ensures reliable, reproducible data on the compression set properties of flexible cellular materials exposed to humid conditions. This supports:

• Material selection and design optimization for specific environmental demands
• Improved product durability, safety, and customer satisfaction
• Compliance with global procurement and regulatory requirements

By standardizing the testing approach, organizations can benchmark materials, drive innovation, and maintain high quality across manufacturing batches for foam and cellular polymeric products intended for humid environments.

Standards Content (Sample)

INTERNATIONAL ISO
STANDARD 13362
First edition
2000-11-01
Flexible cellular polymeric materials —
Determination of compression set under
humid conditions
Matériaux polymères alvéolaires souples — Détermination de la
déformation rémanente après compression dans des conditions humides
Reference number
©
ISO 2000
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ii © ISO 2000 – All rights reserved

Contents Page
Foreword.iv
1 Scope .1
2 Normative reference .1
3 Term and definition .1
4 Principle.1
5 Apparatus .2
6 Test pieces .2
7 Conditioning.2
8 Procedure .2
9 Calculation.2
10 Precision.3
11 Test report .3
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards bodies (ISO
member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out through ISO technical
committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical committee has been established has
the right to be represented on that committee. International organizations, governmental and non-governmental, in
liaison with ISO, also take part in the work. ISO collaborates closely with the International Electrotechnical
Commission (IEC) on all matters of electrotechnical standardization.
International Standards are drafted in accordance with the rules given in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 3.
Draft International Standards adopted by the technical committees are circulated to the member bodies for voting.
Publication as an International Standard requires approval by at least 75 % of the member bodies casting a vote.
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this International Standard may be the subject of
patent rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
International Standard ISO 13362 was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 45, Rubber and rubber products,
Subcommittee SC 4, Products (other than hoses).
iv © ISO 2000 – All rights reserved

INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO 13362:2000(E)
Flexible cellular polymeric materials — Determination of
compression set under humid conditions
WARNING — Persons using thi
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