Last updated April 24, 2025

ASTM D870 Standard Practice for Testing Water Resistance of Coatings Using Water Immersion

The ASTM D870 standard describes a well-established practice for testing the water resistance of coatings using immersion testing. The practice is crucial in determining the durability and protective qualities of water-contacted coatings. The application of the standard allows various industries to measure the efficacy of coatings applied in situations involving primacy water exposure.

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    ASTM D870 Introduction

    Coatings perform a vital function in shielding material against exposure to the environment and environmental damage such as corrosion and degradation resulting from water exposure. The ASTM D870 standard practice offers a scientific method of assessing water resistance of coatings by submerging coated specimens in water under standardized conditions. This testing practice is key in determining the durability and dependability of coatings when exposed to actual exposure conditions in applications such as marine, automotive, and industrial. The obtained results assist manufacturers and researchers in optimizing formulation approaches and compliance with industry standards.

    ASTM D870 Test Method

    Test ConditionsCoated specimens are completely immersed in water at a controlled temperature, typically maintained at 23°C or 50°C depending on the intended application.
    DurationThe immersion period varies, ranging from 24 hours to several weeks, allowing researchers to analyze both short-term and long-term effects.
    EvaluationPost-immersion, samples are examined for blistering, color changes, softening, or adhesion loss, which indicate the extent of water-induced degradation.

    ASTM D870 Equipment and Sample Preparation

    Water BathA controlled-temperature bath is used to maintain the designated immersion conditions consistently.
    Coated SpecimensTest panels coated with the material under evaluation, prepared according to standard thickness and application procedures.
    Observation ToolsEquipment such as magnifying lenses or microscopes are employed for detailed analysis of coating deterioration.

    ASTM D870 Results and Interpretation

    At the end of the immersion test, the coated samples are examined for chemical and physical changes. The main signals for coating failure are blistering, discoloration, loss of adhesion, or softening. The degree of these defects determines whether or not a coating is acceptable to water exposure for an extended period. A coating that has not lost its integrity and indicates minor changes is highly water-resistant, while coatings with major defects need to be reformulated or coated again.

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    Related Articles

    Other ASTM standards that are supportive of ASTM D870 are ASTM D2247, which tests water resistance by a condensation method, and ASTM D1735, which tests water resistance by controlled humidity exposure. These standards give a more complete picture of how coatings behave under various moisture conditions, enabling complete material testing.

    Applications in Industry

    The standard is employed in different sectors to determine coatings’ performance under water-prone conditions. The standard is employed in the automobile industry to check exteriors of vehicles, shipbuilding, marine docks, and offshore structures for coating assessment and in industrial production for ensuring pipeline, storage tanks, and structure component coatings are durable. Adhering to D870 requirements enhances product longevity, dependability, and lessens maintenance expenditure.

    Process for testing
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      You share your testing requirements

    • STEP 02

      You share your sample(s)

    • STEP 03

      We deliver your test reports

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