This standard is confined to the identification of those polymers which are currently most widely used in the rubber industry. The intention is, as experience with the method is gained, first to extend the range of polymers, and ultimately should the demand arise, to recommend methods for the examination of mixed polymer systems. Since the method applies to volcanizates as well as to raw polymers, pyrolysis is advocated as the method for treating the sample prior to infra-red examination. It is recognized that this is not necessarily the best method when more informative spectra, such as may relate to polymer structure for example, are required, but for the immediate purpose of this standard, viz. the qualitative identification of single polymers, pyrolysis is perfectly adequate.