by Shane Henson — July 4, 2011—Standards provider ASTM International recently released new standards pertaining to condensation in exterior building wall systems and the drainage of synthetic turf sports fields.
STP 1498, Condensation in Exterior Building Wall Systems, includes 16 peer-reviewed papers that cover the latest research on condensation in exterior building wall systems. The standard focuses on new ideas and concepts, the consistent application of the principles of physics and the use of appropriate analytical techniques. Topics include a framework for reviewing the link between moisture control prescriptive requirements, and criteria for moisture control design analysis in buildings; laboratory tests of window-wall interface; moisture measurement, damage and condensation potential; and more.
ASTM F2898-11, Test Method for Permeability of Synthetic Turf Sports Field Base Stone and Surface System by Non-confined Area Flood was created because the synthetic turf industry has been plagued with drainage performance issues for many years. Among its many uses, this test method may be used to determine the permeability rate of synthetic turf playing field systems; playing field systems with pad or premolded drainage boards, or both; playing field systems with premolded panel base systems; porous and non-porous pavement systems; or base stone systems in the field, or a combination thereof, by non-confined area flood test method.
ASTM F2898-11 will replace un-standardized methods used by turf installers and stone base contractors to estimate the performance of their products and systems. Design engineers can use the method to test their designs and better associate stone type and installation conditions with actual performance. Testing agencies will be able to assess drainage performance of these systems for owners.
