Overview
ISO 15148:2002/Amd 1:2016 is an important amendment to the internationally recognized standard ISO 15148:2002, which relates to the hygrothermal performance of building materials and products. Specifically, it addresses the determination of the water absorption coefficient by partial immersion. This amendment refines the test conditions and parameters to enhance accuracy and consistency in evaluating how building materials absorb water under controlled moisture exposure.
The standard is developed by ISO Technical Committee 163 (ISO/TC 163), Subcommittee SC 1, which specializes in thermal performance and energy use in the built environment. It plays a critical role in standardizing hygroscopic testing methods, ensuring reliable material characterization in building science.
Key Topics
- Water absorption coefficient determination: This refers to quantifying the rate at which water is absorbed by a building material when immersed partially in water. It is a critical property for assessing durability, moisture resistance, and long-term performance.
- Partial immersion test method: The standard defines how to carry out water absorption tests using partial immersion to simulate real-world contact with moisture.
- Controlled environment conditions: The amendment specifies acceptable temperature (23 ± 5 °C) and relative humidity (50 ± 5 %) ranges during testing, along with allowable variation to ensure repeatability and comparability of results.
- Updated test condition parameters: Amendment 1 replaces the original parameters and testing tables to increase clarity regarding test environment control.
- Reference alignment: Includes updated references to related ISO standards such as ISO 9346:2007, which provides related vocabulary on physical quantities for mass transfer in building materials.
Applications
The ISO 15148:2002/Amd 1:2016 standard is vital for professionals involved in construction materials testing and building performance evaluation:
- Material manufacturers: To validate the water absorption behavior of new products and ensure they meet performance requirements.
- Construction engineers and architects: For selecting appropriate materials that provide adequate moisture resistance, reducing the risk of deterioration and mold growth in buildings.
- Quality control laboratories: Standardized test methods promote consistency in material assessment across different facilities globally.
- Research and development: Helps in developing innovative building materials with improved hygrothermal performance by providing reliable measurement techniques.
- Regulatory compliance: Supports adherence to building codes and environmental regulations focused on moisture management in structures.
Related Standards
- ISO 9346:2007 – "Performance hygrothermique des bâtiments et des matériaux pour le bâtiment - Grandeurs physiques pour le transfert de masse - Vocabulaire": Complements ISO 15148 by defining terms related to mass transfer in materials.
- ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1 and 2 – Guides the development and updating of ISO standards, including requirements for drafting and approval processes.
- Other standards from ISO/TC 163 addressing thermal and energy performance testing methods for building materials.
Summary
ISO 15148:2002/Amd 1:2016 provides an updated and precise method for determining the water absorption coefficient of building materials through partial immersion testing under controlled hygrothermal conditions. This standard is essential for ensuring materials meet performance criteria for water resistance-crucial for durability, energy efficiency, and occupant comfort. Its alignment with related ISO standards enhances consistency in the global building industry’s approach to moisture management.
Keywords: ISO 15148 amendment, water absorption coefficient, partial immersion test, hygrothermal performance, building materials water absorption, moisture resistance testing, building product standards, ISO 9346, construction material durability, hygrothermal testing standards.
Open preview (PDF)Hygrothermal performance of building materials and products — Determination of water absorption coefficient by partial immersion — Amendment 1
