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1.1 This test method covers the determination of the volatiles content, in mass percent of composite material prepregs. This standard focuses on composites with thermosetting resins, which tend to lose a few percent of the matrix mass when heated due to loss of both retained water and low molecular weight matrix constituents that volatilize during heating.

1.2 Use of this test method is limited to maximum temperature of circulating air ovens, approximately 300 °C (572 °F).

1.3 Use of this test method is limited to temperatures below which the matrix flows from the reinforcement.

1.4 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses after SI units are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific precautionary statements are given in Section 8.

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.

5.1 This test method is used to obtain the volatiles content of composite material prepreg. Knowledge of the volatiles content is useful in developing optimum manufacturing processes.

5.2 The volatiles content is determined after exposure to the nominal cure or consolidation temperature.