W. CONSHOHOCKEN, PA - A new ASTM International standard provides a means of determining open time for latex paint. Open time is the time available in which paint can be worked into a previously painted area. Open time is a key performance property for coatings, particularly for brush applications.

ASTM D 7488, Test Method for Open Time of Latex Paints, was developed by Subcommittee D01.42 on Architectural Coatings, part of ASTM International Committee D01 on Paint and Related Coatings, Materials and Applications.

“Historically, solvents used in coating formulations assisted in delivering good open time of a formulated coating,” said Carol Hawkins, a scientist with Dow Chemical Co. and Chairman of D01.42. “As we move away from using solvents in coatings due to changes in regulations for volatile organic compounds, it is important to develop a test method that formulators can use to determine open time of a coating.”