ASTM D 3960 : 2025

1.1This practice measures the volatile organic compound (VOC) content of solventborne and waterborne paints and related coatings as determined from the quantity of material released from a sample under specified bake conditions and subtracting exempt volatile compounds and water, if present.

1.2This practice provides a guide to the selection of appropriate ASTM test methods for the determination of VOC content.

1.3Certain organic compounds that may be released under the specified bake conditions are not counted toward coating VOC content because they do not participate appreciably in atmospheric photochemical reactions. Such negligibly photochemically reactive compounds are referred to as exempt volatile compounds in this practice.

1.4VOC content is calculated as a function of (1) the volume of coating less water and exempt volatile compounds, (2) the volume of coating solids, and (3) the weight of coating solids.

1.5The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard.

1.6This 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.

1.7This 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.