This test method will find use by parties concerned about the influence of common atmospheric pollutant gases on the permanence of the physical strength and optical properties of various printing and writing papers.

The test will provide manufacturers, paper users and other interested parties with quantified rankings of paper stability that identify papers that are stable, moderately stable and unstable when exposed to common atmospheric pollutant gases over periods of time.

The stability rankings may be used for definition of the stability of paper to pollutant gas exposure, but will not define specific periods of life expectancy, as the limits of acceptable physical strength and optical properties will be different for various users of a given paper.

1.1 This test method describes a laboratory procedure for the exposure of printing and writing paper to common atmospheric pollutant gas at elevated levels of concentration to permit accelerated aging of such paper.

1.2 This test method specifies the sample preparation and conditions of exposure required to obtain information on the relative stability of paper with regard to change in mechanical strength and optical properties brought about by exposure of such paper to common atmospheric pollutant gas.

1.3 This test method provides qualitative results regarding paper stability and does not define the exact life expectancy for a given paper to reach a specified set of strength or optical properties. The limit(s) of acceptability for a specified set of properties must be defined by each end user and will determine the life expectancy of the paper to be tested.

1.4 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.