ASTM D2124-99(2004)

PVC compounds are used in a wide variety of products and hence they are formulated to provide a wide range of physical properties. The physical properties required in a compound depend upon the product in which it is used. These properties are largely determined by the type, quantity, and quality of the compounding ingredients. The analytical test method described below makes use of infrared spectrophotometry for the qualitative or quantitative determination, or both, of many of these ingredients in PVC compounds. This test method may be used for a variety of applications including process control, raw material acceptance, product evaluation, and determination of changes in composition resulting from environmental testing.

This test method is directly applicable only to those components listed in the appendix and to those components which are known to be similar in chemical composition and in solubility characteristics to the chemicals listed in the appendix.

1.1 This test method provides for the identification of certain resins, plasticizers, stabilizers, and fillers in poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) compounds by an infrared spectrophotometric technique. In many cases, individual components may be measured quantitatively. Complementary procedures, such as chromatographic and other separations, will be necessary to separate specific components and extend the applications of this test method. Other instrumental test methods, such as optical emission or X-ray spectroscopic methods, may yield complementary information which may allow more complete or, in some cases, easier measurement of the components. The resin components covered in this test method are listed in the appendix.

1.2 PVC formulations are too varied to be covered adequately by a single test method. Using the following test method, many compounds may be separated into resins, plasticizers, stabilizers, and fillers. A number of components can be quantitatively measured. Many more can be identified and their concentrations estimated. By the use of prepared standards, one may determine the usefulness and accuracy of the test method for specific PVC formulations. This test method is applicable for the resin components listed in the appendix and for other components having similar chemical compositions and solubility characteristics. This test method can lead to error in cases where the nature of the components is not known.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in brackets are given for information only.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

Note 1—There is no similar or equivalent ISO standard.