Overview
ASTM C1620-16(2023) is the internationally recognized standard specification for aerosol polyurethane and aerosol latex foam sealants. Published by ASTM International, this standard details the classification, physical properties, and performance requirements of foam sealants extruded from pressurized containers. These sealants are primarily intended for use as air barrier materials in building construction, where they function as critical components of the building envelope by resisting air, moisture, and heat transfer.
Aerosol foam sealants are available as either polyurethane or latex formulations, supplied in containers up to one liter. They are increasingly chosen for their efficiency in sealing gaps, joints, and penetrations within walls, roofs, and other structural elements. Meeting this standard ensures that the sealant provides reliable performance and meets required safety, handling, and installation practices for air barrier applications.
Key Topics
- Types and Grades:
- Type I: Aerosol polyurethane foam sealants
- Type II: Aerosol latex foam sealants
- Grade 1: Contains flammable propellants (classified as flammable)
- Grade 2: Contains nonflammable propellants (not classified as flammable)
- Physical Property Requirements:
- Air permeability (tested by ASTM methods)
- Open cell content, linear yield, shelf life, tack-free and trim time
- Flame spread and smoke index characteristics
- Post-dispensing expansion and contraction
- Sampling and Testing:
- Standard methods for specimen preparation
- Guidance for inspection, sampling practices, and property verification
- Packaging and Marking:
- Containers must comply with DOT requirements
- Clear labeling for compliance, handling, and product identification
- Performance Criteria:
- Must resist the passage of air, moisture, and heat
- Can serve as fireblocking or be part of firestop assemblies in accordance with building code requirements
Applications
- Building Envelope Air Barriers:
Aerosol foam sealants are specified for sealing joints, cracks, and penetrations in exterior walls, roofs, and floors to minimize air leakage and energy loss in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.
- Fireblocking and Fire Stopping:
When properly tested and qualified, these foam sealants may be used to meet fireblocking requirements, limiting hidden fire movement in wall cavities or as part of tested firestop assemblies.
- Moisture and Vapor Control:
By effectively sealing gaps, these products reduce moisture ingress, thus supporting mold control and improving durability.
- Energy Efficiency:
Proper use of aerosol foam sealants improves overall energy performance of buildings by minimizing heat transfer and air infiltration/exfiltration.
- DIY and Professional Use:
Suitable for both professional contractors and consumers, foam-in-place sealants offer quick, efficient application directly from pressurized containers.
Related Standards
- ASTM C1536: Measuring Yield for Aerosol Foam Sealants
- ASTM C1642: Determining Air Leakage Rates for Aerosol Foam Sealants
- ASTM C1643: Measuring Post Dispensing Expansion of Aerosol Foam Sealants
- ASTM C168, C717, D883: Terminology for Insulation, Building Seals, Sealants, and Plastics
- ASTM E84, UL723: Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
- ASTM E283: Determining Rate of Air Leakage in Building Envelope Products
- ASTM E814, UL1479: Fire Tests of Penetration Firestop Systems
- CAN/CGSB 51.93, CAN/ULC-S710.1/2: Canadian standards for air barrier and sealant foam insulation
- IEEE/ASTM SI 10: Use of International System of Units (SI)
ASTM C1620 compliance signifies reliable performance for aerosol foam sealants in air barrier, energy conservation, and fire protection applications, supporting safer and more efficient building construction.