ASTM C1136-23 - Standard Specification for Flexible, Low Permeance Vapor Retarders for Thermal Insulation

1.1 This specification covers vapor retarders for thermal insulation, specifically, flexible materials with permeance of 0.15 perm (8.63 ng·Pa^–1 · s^–1 · m^–2) or lower and surface burning characteristics of 25 flame spread/50 smoke or lower. These materials are intended for use at surface temperatures of −20 to 150°F (−29 to 66°C). It does not cover mastics or barrier coatings applied in liquid form, nor materials intended for use as weather barriers.

1.2 This is a material specification and does not imply that an installed system using these materials will provide the physical properties specified in Section 6.

1.3 This specification provides physical requirements for vapor retarders. Practice C755 provides assistance in solving problems related to moisture vapor transmission through thermal insulation materials.

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 The following precautionary caveat pertains to the test methods portion only, Section 10, of this specification: 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.

1.6 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.