Aerosol Testing
Aerosol products that dispense foams, mousses, gels or pastes are subject to testing for the safe transport of dangerous goods. These products must meet Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements by determining the proper safeguards for the safe manufacture, storage, and display of these materials. They also must receive proper classification for hazard communication and labeling since certain aerosol products can have flammable properties that require additional controls and more robust packaging.
Aerosols are UN Class 2 compressed gases that are further divided into three divisions:
- Division 2.1: Flammable gases
- Division 2.2: Non-flammable gases
- Division 2.3: Toxic gases
Some of the most frequently requested tests include:
- Heat of Combustion Test (ASTM D240): Measuring the heat of combustion is the first step in the flammability classification of an aerosol. The ASTM D240 test determines the heat of combustion of the base liquid in an aerosol sample.
- Ignition Distance Test: The ignition distance test is the second step in the flammability classification of an aerosol spray. This test determines the ignition distance of an aerosol spray in order to assess the associated flammability risk.
- Enclosed Space Ignition Test: The final test that may be needed to classify the flammability of an aerosol spray. This test assesses the flammability of products emerging from aerosol dispensers due to their propensity to ignite in an enclosed or confined space. Tested per ASTM D3065 and UN/DOT Section 31, some refer to this test as the Closed Drum Test.
- Aerosol Foam Flammability Test: Determines the flammability of an aerosol spray emitted in the form of a foam, mousse, gel or paste.
- Flame Projection Test (ASTM D3065): Indicates the flammability of an aerosol positioned near an open flame.
DEKRA Process Safety has a comprehensive hazards laboratory that can test a wide variety of aerosol products, including those that have potentially irritant, toxic or reactive properties when burned. Examples include sprays used for security reasons, and animal pest repellent.
Hazardous material testing is required to satisfy UN Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of classification and labeling of chemicals, to address OSHA Hazard Communication requirements, provide accurate aerosol classification as required by NFPA 30B, Code for the Manufacture and Storage of Aerosol Products, Chapter 51 of the International Fire Code (Aerosols), and aid in environmental hazardous waste characterization. DEKRA Process Safety has the resources you need to get the information required to appropriately classify and understand the properties of the materials you transport, store, and use at your facilities.
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