SIST EN 665:1999

Overview

EN 665:1994 - published by CEN - is a European standard that specifies a method for the determination of exudation of plasticizers from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resilient floor coverings. The standard defines how to assess whether plasticizers migrate to the surface of PVC flooring products, affecting appearance, performance and compatibility with adhesives or coverings. EN 665:1994 has been adopted nationally (for example as SIST EN 665:1999).

Key topics and requirements

While the full standard text contains the exact procedural details, EN 665:1994 centers on these technical topics:

• Scope and purpose - establishes the objective: detect and quantify plasticizer exudation from PVC floor coverings.
• Test principle - a standardized laboratory method to expose samples and detect surface exudation under defined conditions.
• Sample preparation and conditioning - requirements for representative specimens and pre-test conditioning to ensure consistent results.
• Apparatus and materials - specification of the equipment and media needed to carry out the test reliably.
• Procedure and observation - stepwise actions for conducting the test plus criteria for observing and recording exudation.
• Evaluation and reporting - how to interpret findings, classify severity, and present results for quality control and compliance purposes.

Note: This summary outlines the core subject areas without reproducing procedural parameters from the normative text.

Applications

EN 665:1994 is practical for organizations involved with PVC flooring where plasticizer migration is a concern:

• Manufacturers - evaluate formulations and production batches to reduce surface exudation and improve product consistency.
• Test laboratories - provide accredited testing and certification services for resilient floor coverings.
• Specifiers and consultants - assess material suitability for projects where surface appearance or adhesive compatibility is critical.
• Installers and flooring contractors - verify flooring condition before adhesion, covering or final handover.
• Quality assurance teams - use standard test results for product development, supplier control and regulatory compliance.

Understanding plasticizer exudation helps prevent tacky surfaces, staining, reduced adhesion and long-term performance issues in PVC flooring systems.

Related standards

• National adoptions such as SIST EN 665:1999 mirror EN 665:1994.
• For comprehensive evaluation of resilient floor coverings, consult other EN standards covering dimensions, wear resistance, slip resistance and chemical resistance (refer to CEN catalog for related test methods).

Keywords: EN 665:1994, resilient floor coverings, exudation of plasticizers, polyvinyl chloride floor covering, PVC flooring, CEN standard, determination method, flooring test.