ASTM E69 is a standard test method applied to fire-tube testing for combustible qualities of wood that have been treated to lessen flammability. This test method is concerned with the qualities of treated wood rather than the performance of a fabrication utilized as a construction part.
ASTM E69 Standard Test Method for Combustible Properties of Treated Wood by the Fire-Tube Apparatus
What is ASTM E69?
What is the Scope of ASTM E69?
The goal of ASTM E69 is to determine the combustibility of fire-retardant-treated wood specimens based on their weight loss % during controlled fire exposure settings. Other possible data include weight loss rate, blazing and after-glowing time, temperature increase, and maximum vertical flame progress. This test method has proven valuable in comparing the effectiveness of fire-retardant chemicals and treatment formulations for wood and wood products in terms of fire performance.
ASTM E69 Testing Procedure and Requirements
After conditioning, there are two main procedures for ASTM E69. Procedure A is used to determine the percentage loss of weight of specimens following flame exposure. The test is carried out in a laboratory hood or a room with no severe drafts. The burner is put within the empty fire tube, and the burner and gas regulator are set to produce a blue flame with a tall, unclear inner cone that is roughly 11 in. (279 mm) in height. At the top of the fire tube, the flame is adjusted to create a temperature of 356 6 9°F (180 6 5°C). After this, the fire-tube weighing apparatus is adjusted, and the percentage loss of weight sustained by the test specimen is recorded at 30-second intervals. Only the final percentage loss of weight of specimens exposed to the flame is reported using procedure B. It’s a condensed version of procedure A.
ASTM E69 Analysis Results and Interpretation
The goal of ASTM E69 is to determine the combustibility of fire-retardant-treated wood specimens based on their weight loss % during controlled fire exposure settings. The following data are calculated in ASTM E69:
% Weight loss = (Wi 2 Wf)/ Wi/3 ×100
where:
Wi = initial weight, lb(g), and
Wf = final weight, lb(g).
Updated on August 24, 2026
Testimonials
Real results
Engineers trust us with what matters most
“We had a great experience working with this company for our ASTM E84 testing. They were the first company to respond to our inquiry within just a few minutes of submitting it. From start to finish, the communication was excellent, and the entire process was swift, straightforward, and hassle-free.”
“Very good communication, testing associates were very patient with delays on our end. Reasonable turnaround time for results and nicely detailed report. Analysts were also quick to answer any follow-up questions. Happy with results.”
“Matestlab connected us with an accredited lab within days, cutting weeks off our product validation timeline.”
Why Choose Matestlab?
Matestlab is a unified testing services partner based in the USA. Matestlab offers raw material and product testing services through accredited, expert laboratories primarily based in the USA. Matestlab supports physical, thermal, chemical, electrical, mechanical, environmental, and characterization testing needs through its global network of 2200+ accredited testing laboratories. Matestlab's in-house materials science experts curate and design comprehensive testing programs matched to the sample material and specific testing need, with regulatory requirements and confidentiality in mind.
If you are looking for a managed and trusted testing partner to achieve your research goals, feel free to schedule a meeting with us or send us a request at connect@matestlabs.com to learn more about our services. For a quick quote, call us at (302)244-7710. We are happy to serve you.
If you are looking for a managed and trusted testing partner to achieve your research goals, feel free to schedule a meeting with us or send us a request at connect@matestlabs.com to learn more about our services. For a quick quote, call us at (302)244-7710. We are happy to serve you.
Start Your Testing
Project Today
Project Today
Define your requirements and get access to
specialized laboratories ready to deliver results
specialized laboratories ready to deliver results
Start Testing
Partners with us
Clients
Vendors