Introduction to ASTM E1618
When materials often present in buildings are exposed to fire heat, they will undergo pyrolysis and produce combustion products. The procedures outlined for extracted ion profiling and target chemical identification may make it easier to identify an ignitable liquid inside the extract by minimizing interference from elements produced as byproducts of pyrolysis. MaTestLab is one of the best testing service providers, with the best network of testing laboratories in the USA to carry out ASTM E1618 tests for our clients. The field investigator’s conclusion about the cause, amount of fuel, and incendiary nature of the fire can be reinforced if an ignitable liquid residue is found in samples taken from the scene.
ASTM E1618 Test Method
| Gas Chromatography Analysis | The material is examined using a gas chromatograph in ASTM E1618, and extracted ion profiles are produced. Additional chemical components are found and the sample’s chemical properties are described. |
| Detecting chromatograms and profiles of elements | The total ion chromatogram (TIC) and extracted ion profiles (EIP) for the target compound chromatograms are assessed by visual pattern matching against known reference ignitable liquids. |
ASTM E1618 Test Specimens
| Specimen Detail | The detection of ignitable liquid residues in extracts from fire debris samples is covered by ASTM E1618. It works well with extracts that have significant background concentrations of pyrolysis and combustion products, or substrate materials. |
| Specimen Size | The size of the specimen should match the specifications. The specimen for this ASTM E1618 test is cut to fit inside a 0.1–10.0 µL syringe. |
ASTM E1618 Test Result
The ASTM E1618 test technique is particularly crucial for extracts from fire debris samples’ durability and quality assurance. It is decided what part they play in the different services.
Tests Related to ASTM E1618
ASTM E1618 is related to tests including ASTM E1386 for the separation of ignitable residues and debris, ASTM E1388 for the sampling of vapors from debris, and ASTM E2451 for preservation of ignitable liquids.