MaTestLab > Test Standards > ASTM C373 Standard Test Method for Water Absorption, Bulk Density, Apparent Porosity, and Apparent Specific Gravity of Fired Whiteware Products
Last updated 29th October 2024
ASTM C373 Standard Test Method for Water Absorption, Bulk Density, Apparent Porosity, and Apparent Specific Gravity of Fired Whiteware Products
ASTM C373 covers standard test methods for determination of water absorption and associated properties by vacuum method for pressed ceramic tiles and glass tiles and boil method for extruded ceramic tiles and non-tile fired ceramic whiteware products. ASTM C373 evaluates glass tiles, glazed or unglazed ceramic tiles, and fired unglazed whiteware goods for water absorption, bulk density, apparent porosity, and apparent specific gravity. In the ASTM C373 test method, test result values stated in metric units are normative.
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ASTM C373 Introduction
Ceramic maturity assessment using density, porosity, and specific gravity measurements helps identify structural requirements for specific applications. ASTM C373 evaluates the physical characteristics of fired whiteware, ceramic tiles, and glass tiles, ensuring quality control and performance assessment and aiding producers and customers in selecting appropriate materials for specific applications.
Determination of water absorption, bulk density, apparent porosity, and apparent specific gravity of non-tile fired unglazed ceramic whiteware products, glazed or unglazed ceramic tiles, and glass tiles. MaTestLab offers the best ASTM C373 testing services for the clients based in the USA and other countries.
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ASTM C373 Test Procedure
Specimen Selection
Representative samples of fired whiteware, ceramic tiles, or glass tiles are required for the ASTM C373 test. These samples must be clean, dry, and defect-free. The standard specifies the necessary number of specimens for accurate measurements, ensuring they are of sufficient size.
Test Setup and Execution
The test specimen mass is determined by heating them at 150°C for 24 hours, cooling them, and determining the dry mass (D). They are then boiled and soaked for 24 hours, after which the suspended mass (S) is determined. The specimens are weighed and blotted with a damp leather chamois to determine the saturated mass (M).
ASTM C373 Equipment and Sample Preparation
Specimen Details
Test tile types like ceramic, porcelain, or glass by cleaning and preparing specimens. Handle and store specimens carefully, avoiding damage and maintaining moisture content in a controlled environment.
Specimen Dimensions
Specimen dimensions refer to the physical size and shape of tile samples, as per ASTM C373 standard. Common sizes include 10 cm × 10 cm and 15 cm × 15 cm. Tile thickness, which affects properties like water absorption and density, typically ranges from 6 mm to 12 mm for ceramic tiles, but can vary depending on type and application.
ASTM C373 Test Results and Interpretation
Water absorption percentage measures a tile’s ability to absorb water, while bulk density measures its mass per unit volume. Apparent porosity indicates the percentage of open pores or voids in the tile’s structure, while apparent specific gravity is the ratio of a tile’s weight to its water weight. Higher values indicate denser, more robust tiles.
Tests Related to ASTM C373
Important tests relevant to ASTM C373 include ASTM C648 for Breaking Strength of Ceramic Tile, ASTM C674 for Flexural Properties of Ceramic Whiteware Materials, and ASTM C1027 for Determining Visible Abrasion Resistance of Glazed Ceramic Tile.
Use of ASTM C373 in Various Industries
The standard is applied in all sorts of industries, ranging from ceramics and construction to manufacturing, for testing whiteware products such as tiles, bricks, and sanitary ware regarding quality and durability.
Materials Commonly Tested with ASTM C373
The standard tests fired whiteware materials which comprise ceramic tiles and sanitary ware, while structural bricks are common candidates because of low porosity requirements; although the test could also be applied to glass-ceramic materials with controlled porosity levels.
Common Challenges and Troubleshooting in ASTM C373 Testing
Testing has a problem in ensuring that the sample preparation conditions are uniform; this challenges the test. Various time consumption in drying before saturation with less than satisfactory boiling or small deviations in initial dry weight can cause potential incorrect readings. Labs use calibrated equipment and ensure proper sample preparation.
Safety and Best Practices in ASTM C373 Testing
Testing becomes complicated while keeping conditions the same as well as maintaining the same process of handling the preparation of samples, these variations result in incorrect accuracy during testing. Some variables which cause deviations include long times taken during drying, failure to adequately boil at the saturation process, and less than a percent of initial dry weight differences will bring in less than precise results. Laboratory instruments have calibration processes. Laboratories properly prepare the sample.
Importance of ASTM C373
It is the most important standard, whereby water absorption, porosity, and density for the ceramic and whiteware products are determined, indicating strength and suitability for moisture-sensitive applications. This leads to reduced failure risks, raising consumer confidence in durability and reliability.
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Where can I get the astm c373 tested?
You can share your astm c373 testing requirements with MaTestLab. MaTestLab has a vast network of material testing laboratories, spread across the USA and Canada. We support your all material testing needs ranging from specific astm c373 test to various testing techniques.
How much do I need to pay for the astm c373 test?
Please contact us for a detailed quote for your astm c373 testing needs. Cost incurred to carry out different astm c373 testing methodology depends on the type of raw material; number of samples, coupons, or specimens; test conditions, turn around time etc. Costs of some ASTM testing methods start from $100 and the final value depends upon the factors listed above. Please contact us for the best and latest prices.
How many samples are required for astm c373?
The required number of samples or specimens should comply with the procedure given in the astm c373 standard. However, the MaTestLab operations team can assist you for your special requirements once you share your testing details with us.
How much discount can I get on the astm c373 test?
MaTestLab has a vast testing laboratory network, hence we bring you the best testing facilities in a cost-effective way. We offer considerable discounts (15-20%) to our returning customers based on test volume and frequency.
How many days will it take to complete the astm c373 test?
The turnaround time for astm c373 test methodology depends upon the test procedure mentioned in the standard test document. However, we at MaTestLab understand your research requirements and hence try to get your test completed within the least possible time.
Where can I get the astm c373 tested?
You can share your astm c373 testing requirements with MaTestLab. MaTestLab has a vast network of material testing laboratories, spread across the USA and Canada. We support your all material testing needs ranging from specific astm c373 test to various testing techniques.
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