WEST CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa. — A task group of ASTM Subcommittee C24.20 on General Sealant Standards is drafting a test method to determine the mildew resistance of sealants.

“Building sealants are the front line of defense against air infiltration into homes and buildings,” said subcommittee member Morton Jones, director of R&D, Caulks and Adhesives, Gardener-Gibson, Largo, Fla. “Mold spores in the air will attack any surface where moisture and nutrients exist. Mold growth reduction in building structures is a significant human health concern. Sealant mold resistance claims should be appraised and validated.”

The task group invites feedback from sealant producers on a number of issues, including what is the best protocol(s) to evaluate a sealant’s mildew resistance, what classifications describe mold resistance, and what are the physical property changes to address.

To participate in the development of the standard, call 727-531-4100 or visit www.astm.org/commit/c24.htm.

Publication date: 04/14/2003