ASTM D2354-10 (2023) PDF

Full title and description

St ASTM D2354-10 (2023) — Standard Test Method for Minimum Film Formation Temperature (MFFT) of Emulsion Vehicles. This method describes the determination of the minimum temperature at which an emulsion (latex) vehicle will coalesce to form a continuous film when applied as a thin layer under specified conditions.

Abstract

This test method (D2354) defines a procedure and apparatus (MFFT bar or equivalent) for measuring the Minimum Film Formation Temperature (MFFT) of aqueous polymer dispersions and latex vehicles. The MFFT is used to assess low-temperature film-forming behavior of coatings, adhesives and related emulsion-based products and to assist formulation and quality control decisions.

General information

• Status: Active / Current.
• Publication date: June 1, 2023 (reissue/reapproval of D2354-10 variant).
• Publisher: ASTM International (Committee D01 — Paint and Related Coatings, Materials, and Applications).
• ICS / categories: 87.040 — Paints and varnishes (coatings and related test methods).
• Edition / version: D2354-10 with 2023 reissue notation (commonly cited as ASTM D2354-10 (2023)).
• Number of pages: 3 pages (concise test method document).

Scope

This standard covers the determination of the minimum temperature at which emulsion vehicles (including polymer latices) coalesce to form continuous films when applied as thin films. The method applies to emulsions with MFFT values below the test limit defined in the procedure and is intended for formulation guidance and quality control of coatings and similar products.

Key topics and requirements

• Definition of Minimum Film Formation Temperature (MFFT) and its significance for film integrity and end-use performance.
• Required apparatus: temperature-gradient MFFT bar (or equivalent), temperature measurement sensors (thermometers/thermocouples), film caster for uniform wet film thickness, and controlled cooling/heating provisions.
• Sample preparation and application: uniform wet film deposition (specified thickness), conditioning, and evaporation control.
• Observation and end-point determination: visual inspection (or instrumentation) along the temperature gradient to establish the lowest temperature that yields a continuous, non-opaque film.
• Limits and applicability: method typically used for MFFT values in the moderate temperature range (method limits described in the standard); committee notes and supplier information for specialized MFFT bars are provided.
• Calibration, reporting requirements and test conditions to ensure reproducible results.

Typical use and users

Used by formulation chemists, quality control laboratories, coatings and adhesive manufacturers, R&D groups, and test laboratories to: determine minimum application/storage temperature limits, compare formulations, assess coalescent needs, and support product specifications and regulatory compliance for emulsion-based coatings and adhesives.

Related standards

Commonly cross-referenced and complementary methods include ISO 2115 (Polymer dispersions — determination of MFT and white point), ASTM D7306 (practice for low-temperature film formation observation for latex paints), and other international or national test practices for film properties and block resistance. Equipment vendors and test-equipment descriptions often list multiple related standards.

Keywords

Minimum Film Formation Temperature; MFFT; emulsion vehicle; latex; film formation; paint testing; coatings; film caster; temperature-gradient bar; ASTM D2354.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: ASTM D2354 is a standard test method that defines how to determine the Minimum Film Formation Temperature (MFFT) of emulsion vehicles and latex dispersions — the lowest temperature at which a continuous film will form.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers the test principle, required apparatus (temperature-gradient MFFT bar, thermometers/thermocouples, film caster), sample preparation, procedure for applying films across a temperature gradient, and criteria for judging film formation. The method is aimed at emulsions with MFFTs within the method’s operational range.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Formulation and QC chemists in coatings, paints and adhesives industries, independent test labs, R&D groups, and quality assurance teams use the method to screen formulations and set application/storage recommendations.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: The document referenced here is the D2354-10 edition with a 2023 reissue notation (commonly shown as ASTM D2354-10 (2023)); it is listed as active. Historical revisions and reapprovals (including earlier 2010 and 2018 editions/reapprovals) are part of the standard’s document history.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: D2354 is one method among many ASTM and international standards addressing film formation, polymer dispersion testing and paint/coating properties. It is often referenced together with ISO 2115 and ASTM practice D7306 and sits under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D01 on Paint and Related Coatings, Materials, and Applications.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Minimum Film Formation Temperature; MFFT; emulsion vehicles; latex; film formation temperature; temperature-gradient bar; film caster; coatings test method.