ASTM D1353 Nonvolatile Matter in Volatile Solvents for use in Paint, Varnish, and Lacquer, and Related Products

    ASTM D1353 Introduction

    ASTM D1353 is a widely used test method for measuring the amount of nonvolatile matter present in volatile solvents used in paints, varnishes, lacquers, and related products. The test helps to determine the quality of the solvent and its suitability for use in the production of these products. The test method involves evaporating a known amount of solvent under controlled conditions and weighing the remaining nonvolatile matter. The results obtained through this method are specially used for quality control, reliability checks, performance evaluations, material specifications, and research purposes.

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    ASTM D1353 Test Method

    The test method involves evaporating a known amount of the volatile solvent under controlled conditions to remove the volatile portion and measure the remaining nonvolatile matter. The test is carried out in a specific vessel, which is heated to a controlled temperature using a hot plate or other heating devices. The solvent is added to the vessel and allowed to evaporate for a specific time. The remaining nonvolatile matter is then weighed, and the results are reported as a percentage of the initial weight of the solvent. The procedure for ASTM D1353 can be divided into two main steps:

    Preparation of the SampleA representative sample of the volatile solvent is taken, and its weight is accurately measured. The sample is then placed in an oven, which has been preheated to a temperature of 110 °C ± 5 °C, and dried for at least 1 hour.
    Determination of Non-Volatile MatterAfter the sample has been dried, it is removed from the oven, and its weight is measured again to determine the amount of non-volatile matter present in the sample. The percentage of the non-volatile matter is calculated using the formula in which the weight of the residue is the weight of the sample after it has been dried in the oven.

    ASTM D1353 Equipment and Sample Preparation

    Specimen DetailsASTM D1353 test specimens are non-volatile matter content and pigment content of a variety of paints, varnishes, and lacquers.
    Specimen dimensionsThe acceptable specimen size for ASTM D1353 is such that for expected non-volatile matter content of 30% or less, a 100 mL glass-stoppered flask is used. For samples with expected non-volatile matter content greater than 30%, a 50 mL flask is used.
    Specimen preparationThe specimen is prepared by thoroughly mixing the sample to ensure homogeneity. 

    ASTM D1353 Test Method Results and Interpretation

    The results obtained from the ASTM D1353 test method are reported as the percentage of nonvolatile matter in the solvent. This percentage value indicates the quality and suitability of the solvent for use in paints, varnishes, lacquers, and related products. The lower the percentage of nonvolatile matter, the better the quality of the solvent.

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    ASTM D1353 is similar to several other standards that evaluate the quality of solvents used in paints, varnishes, and related products, including ASTM D2369 and ASTM D3960. ASTM D2369 is used to determine the volatile content of coatings, while ASTM D3960 is used to determine the volatile organic compound content of paints and related coatings. 

    Use of ASTM D1353 in Various Industries

    This method is in use in the pharmaceutical, chemical, coatings, and plastics industries, among others, for the determination of nonvolatile matter in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to ensure quality and compliance.

    Materials Commonly Tested with ASTM D1353

    This test method is applicable for observing volatile organic content materials, paints, varnishes, oils, and some polymers to ensure product formulation and consistency by monitoring the nonvolatile residue.

    Common Challenges and Troubleshooting in ASTM D1353 Testing

    Issues associated with testing include poor temperature regulation, poor sample handling, and less than complete evaporation of volatile products. Troubleshooting includes specific temperature control, optimal evaporation time, prevention of contamination, and accurate weighing considering moisture or environmental factors.

    Safety and Best Practices in ASTM D1353 Testing

    Laboratory protocols and safety standards must be followed when testing and PPE should be used in a well-ventilated area or fume hood. Correct cleaning of equipment while adhering to standardized temperature settings also plays an equal role in cross-contamination elimination and providing the true result. These things are important so that safety can be ensured for the tested subjects.

    Importance of ASTM D1353

    This is important to the coatings, pharmaceutical, and chemical industries because it detects the presence of non-volatile constituents in volatile organic compounds; hence, it ensures that product quality complies with the environment. Proper testing ensures that a product’s integrity remains preserved and harmful VOC emission is avoided.

    Updated on June 24, 2026

    Gokula Srinivasan Selvam
    About Author
    Gokula Srinivasan Selvam
    Gokula Srinivasan Selvam is a Material Testing Associate at Matestlab Inc. and holds a postgraduate degree in Ceramic Engineering from IIT (BHU), Varanasi. His academic background and professional experience are centered on advanced ceramic materials, their processing, characterization, and performance evaluation.
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