ASTM D1505

The density of a solid is a conveniently measurable property which is frequently useful as a means of following physical changes in a sample, as an indication of uniformity among samples, and a means of identification.

This test method is designed to yield results accurate to better than 0.05 %.

Note 3—Where accuracy of 0.05 % or better is desired, the gradient tube shall be constructed so that vertical distances of 1 mm shall represent density differences no greater than 0.0001 g/cm.³ The sensitivity of the column is then 0.0001 g/cm³·mm. Where less accuracy is needed, the gradient tube shall be constructed to any required sensitivity.

1. Scope

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the density of solid plastics.

1.2 This test method is based on observing the level to which a test specimen sinks in a liquid column exhibiting a density gradient, in comparison with standards of known density.

Note 1—The comparable ISO document is ISO 1183-2. There has not been any data generated to date comparing the results of the ISO method with this method.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

2. Referenced Documents

ASTM Standards
D2839 Practice for Use of a Melt Index Strand for Determining Density of Polyethylene
D4703 Practice for Compression Molding Thermoplastic Materials into Test Specimens, Plaques, or Sheets
D941 Test Method for Density and Relative Density (Specific Gravity) of Liquids by Lipkin Bicapillary Pycnometer
E691 Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to Determine the Precision of a Test Method
ISO Standard
ISO1183-2 Methods for Determining the Density and Relative Density of Noncellular Plastics

Index Terms

density; film; gradient; plaque; polyolefins; polyethylene; polypropylene; preparation; ICS Number Code 83.080.01 (Plastics in general)

Citing ASTM Standards

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