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1.1 This standard provides a standardized test method for determining the gelation and exotherm curve of unsaturated polyester and vinyl ester resins. This method provides guidance for measurement of the “Standard 180°F (82.2°C) Exotherm Curve” along with information on potential variances of the measurement for some special resins. This test method provides information concerning the reactivity of unsaturated polyester and vinyl ester resins as they go through polymerization after mixing with the initiator.

1.2 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system are not necessarily equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems has the potential to result in nonconformance with the standard.

1.3 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.

1.4 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 measure the reactivity of different lots of unsaturated polyester and vinyl ester resins. The information provided by this test is often used for assessing the predicted performance of a resin when used in elevated temperature as part of the process used to convert the resin into a finished product.

5.2 The method is used in research and development by companies that manufacture resins and for incoming quality control companies using these polymers as raw materials for production. The method is based on the methods which were previously outlined in the Handbook of Reinforced Plastics, “Procedure for Running Exotherm Curves Using the Block Test Method” published by the Society of the Plastics Industry.