These coatings are intended for application as nonflaming coatings for steel, aluminum, and nonmetallic substrates. Wherever possible, the coating should be applied over a surface that has been cleaned and primed to promote adhesion and serviceability when used on metals. Except for trace levels, all grades are free of lead, chromium, cadmium, and asbestos (see 3.5.3). All grades have levels of hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) that do not exceed applicable National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) levels (see 3.5.2 and 3.9). Dry coating residues and debris are non-hazardous waste under U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations in effect on the date of this specification. This specification covers high-grade air-drying coatings from acrylic or alkyd resin and is intended for use on primed interior surface aboard naval ships.

Fire resistance.

The paints qualified to this specification will neither actively support combustion nor contribute to the spread of a fire.

General submarine interior use.

Class 2 materials are designed for use in the enclosed volume of a submarine and are compatible with the operation of the atmosphere control system (emission of volatiles and thermal degradation products).

Military unique properties.

The paint described by this specification is military unique because of the requirements that the paint be non-burning, non-hazardous, and low-smoke producing when applied to metals. Commercial products are not designed for application to metals but are intended for use on wood or plaster board.