Elemental Analyses of Thermoplastics

This Proficiency Testing Program (PTP) is based on the elemental analysis of thermoplastics by Wavelength Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence (WDXRF) Spectrometry and will utilize polyolefin samples and analysis according to ASTM D 6247 Standard Test Method for Analysis of Elemental Content in Polyolefins by X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry or alternative XRF methods.

The scope is not restricted to only those laboratories involved with the analysis of polyolefins. Other laboratories conducting these analyses are encouraged to participate. This ASTM-PTP may be expanded in future to include other thermoplastics, elements, or procedures other than WDXRF as needs and interests are justified.

The PTP will be conducted twice annually, in January and June. As a program participant, you will receive two polyolefin resins plus test instructions for each test cycle. Two test samples per resin are to be prepared by each participating laboratory in accord with ASTM D6247 utilizing compression molding. Each laboratory performs its XRF analyses in duplicate within its own facility using ASTM D6247 or an alternate XRF method.

The reports will contain:

• Coded laboratory test results
• Statistical analyses of test data
• Charts plotting test results
• Other Statistics

Samples, test instructions and data report forms are distributed electronically to each participant on the date samples are distributed. Labs have approximately 8 weeks to submit test data with the final statistical summary reports being electronically distributed in approximately 25 days.

For more information, contact us.

Two homogeneous polyolefins resins will be distributed to each participating lab in approximately 50 to 75 gram quantities each test cycle. LDPE, LLDPE, HDPE and POLYPROPYLENES will be obtained for program testing

Test specimen kits are prepared and distributed for the ASTM-PTP program by Clark Labs in Jefferson Hills, PA.

• ASTM D6247 - Elemental Content by XRF
• Alternate WDXRF Method
• Alternate EDXRF Method
• Program Methods are Subject to Change

Test samples are prepared and distributed for ASTM International by Clark Labs in Jefferson Hills, PA. Program registration fees include the cost of shipping the test samples.

ASTM's Proficiency Test Program provides you with:

• A useful and meaningful statistical quality assurance tool to monitor the strengths and weaknesses of your laboratory's performance in conducting testing.
• The resource you need to satisfy proficiency testing elements of laboratory accreditation.
• A periodic comparison of test results with other participating laboratories.

Should you have an issue with your published results, please write to ptp@astm.org with your lab number and account number.

Participation is on an annual fee basis and open to all laboratories. Registration fees must be paid in advance to participate. Testing must be performed within the participant.s laboratory facilities. A laboratory does not need to perform all the program tests to participate.

Committee D20 on Plastics, consisting of over 750 members, is a developer of 470 standards. The Committee provides the technical direction for the program. Test information from the program may be utilized by Committee D20 to determine if changes to the ASTM test methods are warranted. Data submitted to Committee D20 is coded by ASTM to maintain confidentiality.