MaTestLab > Test Standards > ASTM D6980 Determination of Moisture in Plastics by Loss in Weight
Last updated 9th October 2025
ASTM D6980 Determination of Moisture in Plastics by Loss in Weight
The ASTM D6980 test provides the procedure for the quantitative detection of moisture using loss in weight method down to 50 ppm, which applies to most polymers. Specimens examined in this procedure can reach or surpass 250°C; a temperature high enough warranting caution while handling test specimen after the testing is completed. Moisture has a significant impact on the physical qualities and processability of plastics. High moisture content may produce surface defects (e.g., splay or bubbling) or degradation via hydrolysis. Low moisture (at high temperatures) has been shown to cause solid-phase polymerization. The test standard is meant to serve as a control, acceptance, and evaluation test.
Read More
GET STARTED
ASTM D6980 Introduction
ASTM D6980 is a test method for determining the moisture content of plastic materials using a loss in weight method. For thermoplastics, thermostats, and elastomers, among other polymers, the D6980 test procedure is suitable. The D6980 test is commonly employed in sectors where plastic materials are substantially used, including automotive, packaging, and electronics. Research, performance assessments, material requirements, quality control, and reliability checks can all benefit from the test’s results.
ASTM D6980 serves as a standard protocol for identifying and quantifying volatile organic compounds present in polymer materials, utilizing static headspace gas chromatography. This analytical method is particularly effective for detecting low-molecular-weight substances that can influence the odor, performance, or overall stability of plastics. Its application is crucial in quality assurance and research and development across various sectors, including packaging, automotive, and consumer products, where maintaining material integrity and meeting regulatory compliance are essential.
Service Name
Remarks
ASTM D6980 Testing
Contact US
ASTM D6980 Test Method
The ASTM D6980 test method involves heating a sample of plastic material to a specific temperature in a controlled environment. The heating causes the moisture in the sample to evaporate, resulting in a loss of weight. The rate of weight loss is measured continuously, and the moisture content is determined by calculating the difference in weight before and after heating. The D6980 test method has two variations: thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and loss on drying (LOD).
A Thermogravimetric Analyzer
Thermogravimetric Analysis
The thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) method measures weight loss as a function of temperature
Loss on Drying
The loss on drying (LOD) method measures the weight loss over a specified time period.
ASTM D6980 Specimens
Specimen details
D6980 test specimens are plastic substrates. The specimen is usually prepared by cutting a sample from the plastic material using a sharp blade or a cutter. The specimen is cleaned and dried thoroughly before testing to ensure that the weight loss is due to moisture evaporation and not impurities.
Specimen dimensions
The specimen size and shape for D6980 can vary depending on the type of plastic being tested and the specific test requirements. However, the specimen is ensured to be representative of the material being tested and is of sufficient size to allow for accurate measurement of weight loss.
Specimen preparation
The specimen is usually prepared by cutting a sample from the plastic material using a sharp blade or a cutter. The specimen is cleaned and dried thoroughly before testing to ensure that the weight loss is due to the evaporation of moisture and not due to the presence of impurities.
ASTM D6980
ASTM D6980 Results
The results of the D6980 test method are reported as the percentage of moisture in the plastic material. The moisture content can significantly impact the plastic material’s physical and mechanical properties, including its strength, flexibility, and durability. The results obtained from this test can be used to determine whether the material meets the required moisture specifications, optimize the processing conditions, and ensure the performance and durability of plastic materials. Uniformity in the measurement of various batches is important in ensuring the quality. The high-accuracy recording of weight before and after drying would be good enough to detect even traces of moisture.
Tests related to ASTM D6980
D6980 is similar to several other standards that measure the moisture content in plastic materials, including ASTM D4442 for measuring the moisture content in wood and wood-based materials and ASTM D570 for measuring the water absorption properties of plastic products.
Use of ASTM D6980 in Various Industries
It describes a widely used measurement technique for the coatings, adhesives, pharmaceuticals, and environmental testing industries aimed at measuring volatile organic compound (VOC) content. The method is used to measure VOC content and ensure compliance with regulations regarding high emissions during manufacturing and consumer goods processes. This method is also applied in research laboratories to develop new polymers and investigate the influence of moisture on their mechanical and rheological properties.
Materials Commonly Tested with ASTM D6980
It is the specification that tests paints, varnishes, inks, adhesives, coatings, consumer products, certain pharmaceuticals, and cleaning agents to ensure compliance with regulatory and performance requirements. Plastics, such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), and fluoropolymers, are non-hygroscopic and, therefore, do not have much inherent moisture. However, testing is still conducted to ensure correct storage and processing.
Common Challenges and Troubleshooting in ASTM D6980 Testing
The reasons for failure in testing are incomplete sample preparation, temperature adjustment issues, and residual moisture or volatile compounds. Troubleshooting also includes optimizing temperature settings, ensuring the proper preparation of samples, and calibrating equipment with the least variability and errors during measurement.
Safety and Best Practices in ASTM D6980 Testing
Testing would require safety preconditions, including performing the work in well-ventilated rooms or fume hoods, the use of personal protective equipment, careful cleaning of the testing equipment, adherence to standardized procedures for heating and measurement, and further control over testing conditions to ensure precise and reproducible results. Additionally, various polymer blends, reinforced plastics, and composite materials are tested using this method, as moisture can also influence interfacial bonding and material performance.
Importance of ASTM D6980
The content of volatile organic compounds is accurately measured, ensuring that materials are in full compliance with the regulations and do not harm the environment. Manufacturers can minimize their environmental impact, enhance product performance and safety, and ensure a product that meets the legal VOC emissions limits. The test is particularly beneficial for hygroscopic materials, where accurate control of the moisture level is necessary to prevent degradation during melt processing. It is also involved in quality assurance and material certification, which enables suppliers and processors to determine that the materials used are within specification in terms of moisture content.
Related
FAQ's
Where can I get the astm d6980 tested?
You can share your astm d6980 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 d6980 test to various testing techniques.
How much do I need to pay for the astm d6980 test?
Please contact us for a detailed quote for your astm d6980 testing needs. Cost incurred to carry out different astm d6980 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 d6980?
The required number of samples or specimens should comply with the procedure given in the astm d6980 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 d6980 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 d6980 test?
The turnaround time for astm d6980 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 d6980 tested?
You can share your astm d6980 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 d6980 test to various testing techniques.
MaTestLab Inc. offers accessible, quick, and affordable material testing, product testing, and failure analysis services. We support your on-demand testing and expert consultation needs with the help of our extensive network of material testing laboratories situated in the US and other parts of the world.
MATERIAL TESTING
We offer destructive and non-destructive tests over a range of mechanical, electrical, chemical, thermal, optical, corrosion, radiation, and biological testing methodologies defined by ASTM, ISO and other organizations.
PRODUCT TESTING
We help you evaluate and ensure your product quality and performance with standard and custom-made testing solutions. All the tests are done at well-equipped testing laboratories using standard testing methods for best output and satisfaction.
FAILURE ANALYSIS
Failure analysis ensures high levels of quality in every manufacturing process. We help you with getting the best failure or root cause analysis to determine the cause of the failure. The results help you identify means to prevent failure recurrences.
