ASTM International

Standard Test Methods for Direct Moisture Content Measurement of Wood and Wood- Based Materials
 N D4442

Annotation

These test methods cover the determination of the moisture content (MC) of wood, veneer, and other wood-based materials, including those that contain adhesives and chemical additives. The test methods below describe primary (A) and secondary (B through D) procedures to measure moisture content:

Method A—Primary Oven-Drying Method

Method B—Secondary Oven-Drying Method

Method C—Distillation (Secondary) Method

Method D—Other Secondary Methods.

The primary oven-drying method ((Method A) is intended as the sole primary method. It is structured for research purposes where the highest accuracy or degree of precision is needed.

The secondary methods (B through D) are intended for special purposes or under circumstances where the primary procedure is not desired or justified. In these procedures, moisture content values cannot be reported with an accuracy greater than integer percentage values. However, a greater level of accuracy may be reported if the appropriate primary procedures are used.

Distillation (secondary) method is intended for use with materials that have been chemically treated or impregnated such that the oven-drying procedures introduce greater error than desired in the results.

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.