Before the preparation of the test

Before the preparation of the test specimen, samples shall be conditioned until constant weight (Δm < 0,1 % in 24 h) in a standard atmosphere of 23 °C ± 2 °C and 50 % ± 5 % R.H.C.6 Pre-test conditions for the apparatus for Method 1The operations of calibration and preparation of the equipment for the test, and also the procedures for carrying out the test, shall follow those specified in EN ISO 5659-2 with the following changes. It should be allowed to set the temperature of the FTIR sampling experimental setup as high as 165 °C ± 15 °C. It has to be checked that calibration and analysis are carried out at the same temperature. The filter, the flexible probe and the FTIR gas cell shall be heated so that the sample of effluent shall be stabilised to a temperature of 165 °C ± 15 °C. This condition ensures that the composition of gases produced from the combustion does not vary between the sampling probe and the analysis point.C.7 WarningsTake suitable precautions to safeguard the health of test operators.Toxic or harmful gases may be given off during the exposure of the specimen to the specified test conditions.The conditions of these tests involve high temperatures and produce combustion products with potential risks for skin, for propagation of the fire to external objects or to clothing. The operator shall wear protective gloves and safety goggles during the operations of insertion of the test specimen into the test equipment and during discharge of residues. The cone radiator and the electric elements should not be touched until they are cool.The effectiveness of the discharge system in the equipment shall be checked before the beginning of the tests.To keep the mirrors of the FTIR cell safe from aerosol particles, at the end of each test pump in pure nitrogen for at least 3 min with a flow rate around 4 l/min. Then check that the mirrors are correctly aligned before testing.