ASTM D4446/D4446M-13

1.1 This test method is designed to evaluate the effectiveness of water-repellent compositions for retarding dimensional changes in coated wood submerged in water. It can also be used to measure the differential swelling of untreated wood when exposed to liquid water environments. The compositions tested are designed to be mixed until uniform and applied by brush, roller, dip or spray to an exterior wood surface.

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 may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance 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.

3.1 This test method is useful in determining the relative anti-swelling efficiency of various water-repellent formulations when applied to wood. It is the initial means of estimating the ability of water-repellent treated wood to perform satisfactorily when exposed to liquid water environments.

3.2 The swelling differences of untreated wood species when subjected to water immersion can also be determined by this test method.

3.3 This method is a basic screening test and thus provides an initial determination of the anti-swelling efficiency of water repellents. It is a qualitative method designed to provide a reproducible means of establishing: (1) the anti-swelling efficiency of water-repellent formulations, and (2) the relative swelling of untreated wood species when both are exposed to liquid water environments.