The proposed standard will boost speed, safety, and efficiency in waste testing.
Jul 28, 2025
ASTM International is developing a proposed standard (WK84158) that will be adapted for the advanced flash point test of liquid wastes with a continuously closed cup system without open flame during the test and a minimum sample requirement of 2mL.
WK84158 is being developed by the analytical methods subcommittee (D34.01.06) within ASTM’s waste management committee (D34).
According to ASTM member Andreas Schwarzmann, this new advanced method features outstanding advantages in comparison to the traditional flash point methods and will be very useful considering the safety, speed, and small sample volume.
Schwarzmann, owner of eralytics GmbH, adds that traditional flash point testers use a sample volume of about 70mL, with a flame outside the measurement cup, and thus pose a significant fire danger for the environment.
“Modified Continuously Closed Cup Flash Point (MCCCFP) method is used for all kind of liquids in different industries, including petroleum, oil condition monitoring, beverage, flavor and fragrance, chemicals for quality control as well as transport regulations,” says Schwarzmann. “With the proposed standard, this MCCCFP method describes the procedure to be used in the waste management industry in laboratories and also in the field.”
This effort directly relates to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal #3 on good health and well-being and #6 on clean water and sanitation.
ASTM welcomes participation in the development of its standards. Become a member at www.astm.org/JOIN.
September / October 2025
