This standard specifies the laboratory test method for determining the capillary water take-up of acrylic-based polymer waterproofing materials. It details the apparatus, specimen preparation, procedure, and calculation for measuring the mass of water absorbed by a coated specimen through capillary action over a 24-hour period. This test assesses the material's ability to resist water ingress on porous surfaces.
Acrylic-based polymer waterproofing material - Methods of the test, Part 3: Determination of capillary water take-up
Quick Reference Values
Typical MFFT Apparatus Temperature Range-5°C to +75°C
Specified Wet Film Thickness for Test75 ± 5 microns
Definition of MFFTThe lowest temperature at which a latex will uniformly coalesce when laid on a substrate as a thin film.
Definition of White PointThe temperature at which a dried film of the polymer dispersion turns white or opaque upon cooling.
Dry Air Flow Rate over Film2-4 litres/minute
Key Formulas
W = (m_t - m_o) / A — Where W is capillary water take-up (kg/m²), m_t is mass after immersion (kg), m_o is initial mass (kg), and A is surface area (m²).
Practical Notes
The MFFT value is crucial for determining the safe application temperature range for a waterproofing product; applying it below the MFFT will lead to film defects and failure.
This test is primarily used by manufacturers for quality control and by testing laboratories for product certification, not typically performed on-site.
Results from this test directly inform the Technical Data Sheet (TDS) and application guidelines for waterproofing materials, especially regarding use in different climates.