Aerosol Testing Services
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.
Contact us to discuss a sampling and test plan with a DEKRA specialist!
Aerosol testing helps manufacturers understand the safety characteristics and potential hazards associated with pressurized products. It can support regulatory compliance, safer product development, and accurate classification for transportation, storage, labeling, and handling.
Aerosol product testing is commonly performed on personal care products, household cleaners, lubricants, coatings, automotive products, industrial chemicals, and other formulations packaged in pressurized containers. Testing needs may vary based on the product formulation, packaging, intended use, and applicable regulations.
Aerosol testing can provide valuable information about product flammability, pressure, classification, and safe handling requirements. Results may help manufacturers evaluate potential hazards, determine appropriate labeling, and support regulatory and transportation decisions.
Aerosol safety testing should be considered during product development, formulation changes, packaging updates, regulatory reviews, and preparation for market entry. Testing may also be necessary when a manufacturer changes ingredients, containers, propellants, or distribution markets.
Yes. Aerosol compliance testing can help manufacturers evaluate their products against applicable transportation, storage, labeling, and product safety requirements. Test results and supporting documentation may also assist with internal compliance reviews and regulatory submissions.
Aerosol testing services can help product development teams compare formulations, assess packaging changes, identify potential safety concerns, and make informed decisions before commercialization. Testing early in development may also help manufacturers address issues before production and distribution.
Aerosol testing services are commonly used by manufacturers in the consumer products, chemical, automotive, industrial, personal care, household products, coatings, and specialty chemicals industries. Any organization producing pressurized aerosol products may benefit from appropriate testing and classification.
After testing, the aerosol testing laboratory typically provides results and supporting documentation. Manufacturers can use this information for aerosol classification testing, regulatory submissions, internal safety assessments, product development, and compliance activities.
Yes. Aerosol safety testing helps manufacturers better understand product characteristics and identify potential hazards related to flammability, pressure, packaging, handling, storage, and transportation. These insights can support safer product design and more informed risk management decisions.
An independent aerosol testing laboratory provides specialized expertise, standardized testing methods, objective results, and clear documentation. Working with an experienced laboratory can help manufacturers obtain reliable information for product classification, safety evaluations, compliance activities, and business decisions.
