ASTM stands for the American Society for Testing and Materials. Founded in 1898, ASTM is a globally recognized standards organization. ASTM standards fall into the following six categories:
- Standard Test Method: A defined procedure for identifying, testing, and evaluating the quality, characteristics, and parameters of materials, products, systems, or services.
- Standard Specification: A document that sets out technical requirements and detailed descriptions for materials, products, systems, or projects, along with the procedures for meeting those requirements.
- Standard Practice: A description of one or more specific operations or functions that does not produce a test result.
- Standard Terminology: A document that describes or defines terms, symbols, abbreviations, and acronyms.
- Standard Guide: A document that presents or explains a range of options or approaches without prescribing a specific course of action.
- Standard Classification: A systematic arrangement and categorization of materials, products, systems, or services based on their origin, composition, properties, or end use.
The standard for evaluating the thermal resistance of camping sleeping pads (ASTM F3340-18) was developed through ASTM by Therm-a-Rest — a long-established pioneer in the sleeping pad industry — in collaboration with several other companies.
What Is the ASTM F3340 R-Value Standard?
R-value is a measure of a material's or product's resistance to heat loss, commonly referred to as thermal resistance. The higher the R-value, the less heat is lost.
The ASTM R-value standard establishes a level playing field for comparing products across the camping sleeping pad market. It also helps consumers select the pad best suited to their needs and intended environment. For more information, see our article: What Is the R-Value of a Camping Sleeping Pad?