What is ASTM D6226?
ASTM D6226 is a standard test method for determining the percentage of open and closed cells (porosity) in rigid cellular plastic materials. This test utilizes an automated gas pycnometer (using helium or nitrogen) to measure gas displacement. In this test, the pycnometer applies Boyle’s Law by pressurizing the gas in a sample chamber, then releasing it into a reference volume to calculate the accessible cellular volume. The result is the volume of interconnected open cells, calculated as the difference between the specimen’s total geometric volume and its pycnometer-measured volume.
For EPS (Expanded Polystyrene), the method uses helium displacement to measure the volume accessible to the test gas. The measured open-cell content, together with the required density information, can be used to determine the closed-cell content.
What was the client looking to evaluate?
The client wanted to determine the percentage of closed-cell content of an EPS material in accordance with ASTM D6226(Standard Test Method for Open-Cell Content of Rigid Cellular Plastics).
ASTM D6226 Testing Requirements for EPS identified by us:
The testing requirements included:
- Material: Expanded Polystyrene (EPS)
- Sample size: 1 × 1 × 1 inch cube
- Number of samples: 1
- Objective: Determine the percentage of closed-cell content
What are the key testing requirements?
For calculating the closed-cell content, the following density information is required:
- Apparent density of the sample
- Raw material/base polymer density
The helium displacement method can measure open-cell content directly. These density values are then needed to calculate the corresponding closed-cell content.
How Does ASTM D6226 Work?
The sample is evaluated using a helium displacement method. Helium can access open and interconnected cells within the material, while closed cells remain inaccessible. The measured gas-accessible volume is used to determine the open-cell content. The closed-cell content can then be calculated using the applicable density information.
ASTM D6226 Testing Procedure
- Sample Preparation: The EPS specimen is prepared according to the applicable testing requirements.
- Gas Displacement: Helium gas is used to determine the volume accessible within the cellular structure.
- Open-Cell Measurement: The accessible volume is used to determine the open-cell content.
- Closed-Cell Calculation: The closed-cell content is calculated using the measured open-cell information together with the required density values.
Discussion & Conclusions
The reported results included open-cell content (%), closed-cell content (%), apparent density (g/cm³), raw material/base polymer density (g/cm³), and helium-accessible volume (cm³) for the EPS specimen. These measurements supported the determination of the material’s closed-cell content in accordance with ASTM D6226.
Why Should You Choose Matestlab for ASTM D6226 Testing?
Matestlab provides ASTM D6226 testing services through expert laboratories based in the USA. We serve as a unified testing partner for physical, thermal, chemical, electrical, mechanical, environmental, and characterization testing needs, supported by our global network of 2,200+ accredited testing laboratories.
Our in-house materials science experts develop testing programs tailored to your EPS material, sample requirements, and ASTM D6226 objectives, while considering applicable technical and regulatory requirements.
If you are looking for a managed and trusted testing partner for your EPS characterization and research needs, contact us at connect@matestlabs.com to learn more about our services.
For a faster quote, call us at (302) 244-7710. We are happy to support you.
FAQs
1. What is the estimated cost for ASTM D6226 testing?
ASTM D6226 testing is offered at ~$1,750 per sample (please note that pricing is subject to change based on the sample material, project scope, and testing requirements).
2. How long does ASTM D6226 testing take?
The estimated turnaround time is 3–5 weeks, depending on laboratory availability, sample receipt, and reporting requirements.
3. What sample size is required for EPS testing?
For this case, the client provided one EPS specimen measuring 1 × 1 × 1 inch.
4. Why was the helium displacement method used?
Helium can access open, interconnected cells while remaining inaccessible to closed cells, making it suitable for determining open-cell content.
5. What information is required to calculate closed-cell content?
The calculation requires the sample’s apparent density, the raw material/base polymer density, and the measured open-cell content.
6. What does the ASTM D6226 test determine?
The test determines the open-cell content of rigid cellular plastic, which, along with the required density information, can be used to determine the closed-cell content of EPS.
