ASTM D570 is the standard test method for water absorption of plastics. This standard determines the relative rate of water absorption by polymers when immersed. This test method is designed to be applied to a wide range of plastics, such as sheets and rods that are 0.13 mm (0.005 in.) thick or more, homogeneous and laminated plastics, and cast, hot-molded, and cold-molded resinous goods. Properties including mechanical strength, electrical insulating resistance, dielectric losses, appearance, and size are all strongly correlated with a plastic's moisture content. The part shape, the plastic's intrinsic properties, and the type of exposure (such as immersion in water or exposure to high humidity) all have a major role in determining how these qualities are affected by changes in moisture content brought on by water absorption. As a guide for the amount of water absorbed by a material, the ASTM D570 test method for rate of water absorption serves two main purposes. Secondly, it can be used as a control test to ensure product uniformity, particularly for sheet, rod, and tube arms when tested on the final product.
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ASTM D570 Introduction
ASTM D570 is a test method designed to measure the water absorption properties of plastics when immersed. All types of plastics, including cast, hot-molded, and cold-molded resinous products, and both homogeneous and laminated plastics in rod and tube form, are worked upon by this test method. The results obtained are specially used for quality control and specification purposes. The test procedure is crucial for understanding how moisture affects the mechanical and physical properties of plastics, which is essential for their effectiveness in various applications. Ensuring dependability and endurance in their intended uses, D570 assesses the suitability of plastic materials for use in damp environments by measuring their water absorption. ASTM D570 is essentially the standard procedure for determining the water absorption capacity of a plastic material. In this method, a plastic sample is immersed in water at 23°C for 24 hours, after which any increase in weight is recorded. This measurement provides insight into the material’s water absorption characteristics. Understanding how much water a plastic absorbs is critical, as it directly influences aspects such as dimensional stability and mechanical properties, which are particularly relevant in environments exposed to moisture. The results from this test inform decisions regarding material selection, quality control, and performance comparisons. Ultimately, understanding the water absorption behavior of plastics is crucial for predicting their durability and functional reliability, particularly in electrical, structural, or outdoor applications.
ASTM D570 Test Method
ASTM D570 test method is generally applicable to determine the proportion of water absorbed by plastics and the relationship between moisture and electrical or mechanical properties of the materials under test. This test method utilizes a Mettler balance to calculate the water absorption values for different durations of immersion. Proportions of water absorption are determined respectively for twenty-four-hour immersion, two-hour immersion, repeated immersion, long-term immersion, two-hour boiling water immersion, one-half-hour boiling water immersion, and immersion at 50 degrees Celsius.
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ASTM D570 Testing
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Test procedure at ambient temperature
The conditioned specimens are completely immersed in a container of distilled water maintained at 23 degrees Celsius. Towards the end of the decided duration of immersion, the specimens are removed, wiped off with a dry cloth, and weighed.
Test procedure at elevated temperature
The conditioned specimens are placed in a container of boiling distilled water and supported on an edge. They are immersed for the desired time and then removed. They are then cooled in distilled water maintained at room temperature and weighed separately.
ASTM D570 Equipment and Sample Preparation
Specimen details
Specimens must be plastics molded in a disk shape, rod, or tube form.
Specimen dimensions
Plastic sheets used in this test method are 0.13 mm (0.005 in.) or greater in thickness. Molded plastics in the form of disks 50.8 mm in diameter and 3.2 mm in thickness are preferred.
Specimen preparation
Specimens are injection molded or cut from molded or extruded sheets or plates.
ASTM D570 Results and Interpretation
This test method evaluates the relative water absorption of plastics when immersed. Factors like the type of plastic, additives used, temperature, and length of exposure affect water absorption. Plastic’s moisture content is related to properties such as electrical insulation resistance, dielectric losses, mechanical strength, appearance, and dimensions. Water absorption is expressed as an increase in weight percent.
Percent Water Absorption = [(Wet weight – Dry weight)/ Dry weight] x 100
Comparing data on various materials allows engineers to choose appropriate plastics for use in wet or humid conditions. The test is also used to determine the effects of additives, fillers, and processing methods on water uptake. The control of temperature, immersion time, and drying processes is strict to achieve repeatability and reproducibility of the results.
Tests related to ASTM D570
ISO 2896 is similar to ASTM D570. ISO 2896 covers the water absorption properties of plastics, like the ASTM D570, and measures the rate of water absorption of rigid cellular plastics by immersing them in a 50 mm head of water. The changes in the volume of the specimens are corrected, and the buoyant force on the specimens is determined. The test is specifically important for quality control and for product specification. ASTM D638 standard test method for tensile properties of plastics is also related to ASTM D570.
Use of ASTM D570 in Various Industries
This test is highly important for the electronics, building, and construction industries, the automotive and aerospace sectors, since it helps provide material resistance to moisture, durability, and stability in certain humidity or underwater exposure conditions. In construction, it helps in the choice of plastic materials, which are used in plumbing, sealing, and exterior cladding. ASTM D570 is used in the packaging and consumer goods industries to ensure long-term durability of products exposed to moisture during storage or use. This method is also used in research and development laboratories to investigate the polymer modification, additive effects, and composite performance under the influence of moisture to ensure that new formulations are reliable for end-use conditions.
Materials Commonly Tested with ASTM D570
It details test methods for thermoplastics, including PE, PP, and PVC, as well as engineering plastics such as nylon, PC, and ABS, and composite materials with plastic matrices, focusing on performance and stability under various moisture conditions.
Common Challenges and Troubleshooting in ASTM D570 Testing
Some of the challenges include poor and inconsistent sample conditioning, contamination, poor preparation, calibration, and data variability. Therefore, troubleshooting involves proper sample conditioning, maintaining clean environments, using uncontaminated water, calibrating equipment, and standardization of procedures.
ASTM D570 Safety and Best Practices
Although the test is relatively safe, the conventional laboratory precautions should be observed. Heat-resistant gloves should be put on when handling hot oven specimens, and the water bath should be kept on the safe side. The vacuum seal does not want to break or damage delicate desiccators. Weighing activities should be performed on a stable and vibration-free surface to ensure accuracy. Contamination that may affect the mass readings should also be prevented through clean, dry equipment.
Importance of ASTM D570
This is one of the most important tests that needs to be performed with plastic material in order to determine its characteristics of water absorption, which becomes so crucial in realistic applications in electronics, automotive, and construction to make sure functionality and structural integrity are maintained across a wide range of environmental conditions.
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The required number of samples or specimens should comply with the procedure given in the astm d570 standard. However, the MaTestLab operations team can assist you for your special requirements once you share your testing details with us.
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The turnaround time for astm d570 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.
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You can share your astm d570 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 d570 test to various testing techniques.
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