ASTM D2883-95(2005)

The reaction thresholds of a material are a measure of the tendency of the material or its decomposition products to undergo gas phase reactions of various types. Hot-flame and cool-flame thresholds relate directly to reactions which are involved in autoignition phenomena. Pre-flame, catalytic and thermal polymerization thresholds also relate to autoignition in that they represent reactions which can be under some conditions the precursors of ignition reactions.

1.1 This test method covers determination of the pre-flame, cool-flame, and hot-flame reaction threshold temperatures and the incipient reaction temperature of liquids and solids. Data may be obtained at pressures from low vacuum to 0.8 MPa (115 psia) for temperatures within the range from room temperature to 925 K (1200^oF).

1.2 This test method may be applied to any substance that is a liquid or a solid at room temperature and atmospheric pressure and that, at room temperature, is compatible with glass and stainless steel. Air is the intended oxidizing medium; however, other media may be substituted provided appropriate precautions are taken for their safe use.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. In cases where materials, products, or equipment are available in inch-pound units only, SI units are omitted.

1.4 This standard should be used to measure and describe the properties of materials, products, or assemblies in response to heat and flame under controlled laboratory conditions and should not be used to describe or appraise the fire hazard or fire risk of materials, products, or assemblies under actual fire conditions. However, results of this test may be used as elements of a fire risk assessment which takes into account all of the factors which are pertinent to an assessment of the fire hazard of a particular end use.

1.5 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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific hazard statements, see 6.8, Sections 7 and 9.