ASTM D5238 Standard Test Method for Smoldering Combustion Potential of Cotton-Based Batting
1. Scope
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 is
designed to evaluate batting containing at least 75 % cotton by weight, and it is intended to be used primarily as a quality control tool.
1.2 This test method is used to measure and describe the response of materials, products, or assemblies to heat and flame under controlled conditions, but does not by itself incorporate
all factors required for fire hazard or fire risk assessment of the materials, products, or assemblies under actual fire conditions.
1.3 Fire testing is inherently hazardous. Adequate safeguards for personnel and property shall be employed in conducting these tests.
1.4 Inadequate consideration of a subsystem, such as cotton batting, to resist smoldering is frequently the reason that finished mattress or upholstered furniture systems fail fire and
smolder resistance tests. 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.
1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.
1.6 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.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:2
ASTM D123 Terminology Relating to Textiles
ASTM D1776 Practice for Conditioning and Testing Textiles
ASTM D2258 Practice for Sampling Yarn for Testing
ASTM D4391 Terminology Relating to The Burning Behavior of Textiles
ASTM E176 Terminology of Fire Standards
2.2 Government Standard:
Title 16 CFR Part 1632, Standard for the Flammability of Mattresses and Mattress Pads (FF 4-72 Amended)3