ASTM D5238-98

1.1 This test method covers the determination of smoldering combustion potential within cotton-based batting intended for use in mattresses and upholstered furniture. This test method should not be used to evaluate batting containing less than 75% cotton by weight, and it is intended to be used primarily as a quality control tool.

1.2 This test method should be used to measure and describe the properties of materials, products, or assemblies in response to heat and flame under controlled laboratory conditions and should not be used to describe or appraise the fire hazard or risk of materials, products, or assemblies under actual fire conditions. However, the results of this test may be used as elements of a fire risk assessment that takes into account all of the factors that are pertinent to an assessment of the fire hazard of a particular end use.

1.3 Inadequate consideration of a subsystem, such as cotton batting, to resist smoldering is frequently the reason that finish systems fail fire and smolder resistance tests in mattresses and upholstered furniture. This test method may be used to evaluate this smolder resistance in the subsystem of cotton batting used in such products. The purpose of this test method is to aid end users in better determining the potential of cotton batting components to resist smoldering. It is recommended that those using this test method be familiar with cotton batting production and the use of cotton batting in mattresses and upholstered furniture.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, 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.