ASTM D2839-16(2023)
(Practice)Standard Practice for Use of a Melt Index Strand for Determining Density of Polyethylene
Standard Practice for Use of a Melt Index Strand for Determining Density of Polyethylene
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This practice has been found to be very useful for preparing polyethylene samples suitable for determination of density by Test Method D1505, for quality control purposes, especially in a resin manufacturing facility where fast, reproducible, comparative results are needed. It is not necessarily recommended for resin specifications that are part of a sales contract between the buyer and the seller.
4.2 The density of a polyethylene sample is highly dependent on the preparation and thermal history of the specimens. The level of density results obtained by this practice of sample preparation differs from that obtained by other methods as described in Practice D4703, Annex A1.
4.3 Before proceeding with this practice, reference shall be made to the specification of the material being tested. Any test specimen preparation, conditioning, dimensions, or testing parameters, or some combination thereof, covered in the materials specification shall take precedence over those mentioned in this practice. If there are no material specifications, the default conditions apply.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the preparation of a sample for polyethylene density determination in accordance with Test Method D1505. The sample consists of a strand produced by extrusion of the polyethylene in accordance with Test Method D1238, Condition 190/2.16 (Melt Index).
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.
1.3 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
Note 1: There is no known ISO equivalent to this standard.
Note 2: The precision data on densities measured using this sample preparation practice is listed in Test Method D1505.
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
General Information
- Status
- Published
- Publication Date
- 14-Mar-2023
- Technical Committee
- D20 - Plastics
- Drafting Committee
- D20.15 - Thermoplastic Materials
Relations
- Refers
ASTM D1238-23a - Standard Test Method for Melt Flow Rates of Thermoplastics by Extrusion Plastometer - Effective Date
- 15-Nov-2023
- Refers
ASTM D1238-13 - Standard Test Method for Melt Flow Rates of Thermoplastics by Extrusion Plastometer - Effective Date
- 01-Aug-2013
- Refers
ASTM D1505-10 - Standard Test Method for Density of Plastics by the Density-Gradient Technique - Effective Date
- 01-Jul-2010
- Effective Date
- 01-Jun-2010
- Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2007
- Refers
ASTM D1238-04c - Standard Test Method for Melt Flow Rates of Thermoplastics by Extrusion Plastometer - Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2004
- Refers
ASTM D1238-04a - Standard Test Method for Melt Flow Rates of Thermoplastics by Extrusion Plastometer - Effective Date
- 01-Aug-2004
- Refers
ASTM D1238-04 - Standard Test Method for Melt Flow Rates of Thermoplastics by Extrusion Plastometer - Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2004
- Refers
ASTM D1505-03 - Standard Test Method for Density of Plastics by the Density-Gradient Technique - Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2003
- Effective Date
- 10-Jul-2003
- Effective Date
- 10-Nov-2002
- Effective Date
- 10-Aug-2001
- Refers
ASTM D1238-00 - Standard Test Method for Melt Flow Rates of Thermoplastics by Extrusion Plastometer - Effective Date
- 10-Aug-2001
- Effective Date
- 10-Dec-2000
- Effective Date
- 10-Dec-2000
Overview
ASTM D2839-16(2023) - Standard Practice for Use of a Melt Index Strand for Determining Density of Polyethylene outlines a standardized process for preparing polyethylene samples specifically suited for density determination. The method is particularly valuable in environments that require rapid, reproducible, and comparative results, such as resin manufacturing facilities engaged in quality control. This standard practice focuses on using a melt index strand-produced by extruding polyethylene per Test Method D1238 (Condition 190/2.16)-for density measurements performed using ASTM Test Method D1505. While highly useful for internal consistency and process monitoring, it is not necessarily intended for applications involving contractual resin specification between suppliers and buyers.
Key Topics
Melt Index Strand Preparation
- Polyethylene is extruded to form a melt index strand using ASTM D1238 under specified conditions.
- Sample preparation, including thermal history, significantly influences density results.
Sample Conditioning
- The melt index strand is conditioned in boiling water, impacting the accuracy and consistency of density results.
- External factors such as air drafts and cooling rates must be minimized for reliable measurements.
Density Determination
- The prepared and conditioned strand serves as the specimen for density measurement using the density-gradient technique in ASTM D1505.
- Deviations in sample preparation can cause measurable differences in reported density values when compared to other sample preparation methods.
Quality Control Applications
- The practice delivers fast, reproducible, and comparative density results ideal for production line monitoring and process validation.
- The technique allows resin producers to efficiently track product uniformity and identify process variations.
Reporting and Compliance
- Any deviations from the standard practice or omissions in sample conditioning must be documented.
- Safety, health, and environmental regulations remain the responsibility of the user.
Applications
ASTM D2839-16(2023) is tailored for practical use in industrial settings, providing significant value in:
Polyethylene Resin Manufacturing
- Ensures efficient sample throughput during batch testing and process quality control.
- Facilitates the rapid assessment of product consistency, aiding in process optimization.
Process Quality Control Laboratories
- Empowers labs to maintain high volume and consistent density measurements.
- Enhances comparative analyses between production samples.
Internal Research and Development
- Allows quick screening of new polyethylene formulations for density property assessment.
- Supports troubleshooting and continuous improvement initiatives in extrusion processes.
This practice is generally not recommended for formal resin specification agreements between buyers and sellers, as sample preparation-induced density variations may not reflect contractual requirements.
Related Standards
ASTM D1238: Test Method for Melt Flow Rates of Thermoplastics by Extrusion Plastometer
- Controls the conditions for producing the melt index strand used in this density determination practice.
ASTM D1505: Test Method for Density of Plastics by the Density-Gradient Technique
- Specifies the analytical technique for measuring the density of the prepared polyethylene sample.
ASTM D4703: Practice for Compression Molding Thermoplastic Materials into Test Specimens
- Provides an alternative method for sample preparation, influencing comparative density results.
Note: There is currently no ISO equivalent to ASTM D2839-16(2023).
Key terms: polyethylene density testing, melt index strand, process quality control, ASTM D2839, resin manufacturing, ASTM D1238, ASTM D1505.
For further information and standard acquisition, refer to the official ASTM website.
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Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM D2839-16(2023) is a standard published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Practice for Use of a Melt Index Strand for Determining Density of Polyethylene". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 4.1 This practice has been found to be very useful for preparing polyethylene samples suitable for determination of density by Test Method D1505, for quality control purposes, especially in a resin manufacturing facility where fast, reproducible, comparative results are needed. It is not necessarily recommended for resin specifications that are part of a sales contract between the buyer and the seller. 4.2 The density of a polyethylene sample is highly dependent on the preparation and thermal history of the specimens. The level of density results obtained by this practice of sample preparation differs from that obtained by other methods as described in Practice D4703, Annex A1. 4.3 Before proceeding with this practice, reference shall be made to the specification of the material being tested. Any test specimen preparation, conditioning, dimensions, or testing parameters, or some combination thereof, covered in the materials specification shall take precedence over those mentioned in this practice. If there are no material specifications, the default conditions apply. SCOPE 1.1 This practice covers the preparation of a sample for polyethylene density determination in accordance with Test Method D1505. The sample consists of a strand produced by extrusion of the polyethylene in accordance with Test Method D1238, Condition 190/2.16 (Melt Index). 1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only. 1.3 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Note 1: There is no known ISO equivalent to this standard. Note 2: The precision data on densities measured using this sample preparation practice is listed in Test Method D1505. 1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 4.1 This practice has been found to be very useful for preparing polyethylene samples suitable for determination of density by Test Method D1505, for quality control purposes, especially in a resin manufacturing facility where fast, reproducible, comparative results are needed. It is not necessarily recommended for resin specifications that are part of a sales contract between the buyer and the seller. 4.2 The density of a polyethylene sample is highly dependent on the preparation and thermal history of the specimens. The level of density results obtained by this practice of sample preparation differs from that obtained by other methods as described in Practice D4703, Annex A1. 4.3 Before proceeding with this practice, reference shall be made to the specification of the material being tested. Any test specimen preparation, conditioning, dimensions, or testing parameters, or some combination thereof, covered in the materials specification shall take precedence over those mentioned in this practice. If there are no material specifications, the default conditions apply. SCOPE 1.1 This practice covers the preparation of a sample for polyethylene density determination in accordance with Test Method D1505. The sample consists of a strand produced by extrusion of the polyethylene in accordance with Test Method D1238, Condition 190/2.16 (Melt Index). 1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only. 1.3 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Note 1: There is no known ISO equivalent to this standard. Note 2: The precision data on densities measured using this sample preparation practice is listed in Test Method D1505. 1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
ASTM D2839-16(2023) is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 83.080.20 - Thermoplastic materials. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ASTM D2839-16(2023) has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM D1238-23a, ASTM D1238-13, ASTM D1505-10, ASTM D4703-10, ASTM D4703-07, ASTM D1238-04c, ASTM D1238-04a, ASTM D1238-04, ASTM D1505-03, ASTM D4703-03, ASTM D4703-02, ASTM D1238-01e1, ASTM D1238-00, ASTM D4703-00, ASTM D4703-93. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ASTM D2839-16(2023) is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
Standards Content (Sample)
This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: D2839 − 16 (Reapproved 2023)
Standard Practice for
Use of a Melt Index Strand for Determining Density of
Polyethylene
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D2839; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope* 3. Terminology
1.1 This practice covers the preparation of a sample for 3.1 Definitions:
polyethylene density determination in accordance with Test 3.1.1 melt index strand—the extrudate produced when poly-
Method D1505. The sample consists of a strand produced by ethylene is extruded in accordance with Test Method D1238,
extrusion of the polyethylene in accordance with Test Method Condition 190/2.16.
D1238, Condition 190/2.16 (Melt Index).
4. Significance and Use
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the
4.1 This practice has been found to be very useful for
standard. The values given in parentheses are for information
preparing polyethylene samples suitable for determination of
only.
density by Test Method D1505, for quality control purposes,
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the
especially in a resin manufacturing facility where fast,
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
reproducible, comparative results are needed. It is not neces-
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
sarily recommended for resin specifications that are part of a
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
sales contract between the buyer and the seller.
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
4.2 The density of a polyethylene sample is highly depen-
NOTE 1—There is no known ISO equivalent to this standard.
dent on the preparation and thermal history of the specimens.
NOTE 2—The precision data on densities measured using this sample
The level of density results obtained by this practice of sample
preparation practice is listed in Test Method D1505.
preparation differs from that obtained by other methods as
1.4 This international standard was developed in accor-
described in Practice D4703, Annex A1.
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
4.3 Before proceeding with this practice, reference shall be
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
made to the specification of the material being tested. Any test
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
specimen preparation, conditioning, dimensions, or testing
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
parameters, or some combination thereof, covered in the
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
materials specification shall take precedence over those men-
2. Referenced Documents
tioned in this practice. If there are no material specifications,
the default conditions apply.
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D1238 Test Method for Melt Flow Rates of Thermoplastics
5. Apparatus
by Extrusion Plastometer
5.1 Extrusion Plastometer, as described in Test Method
D1505 Test Method for Density of Plastics by the Density-
D1238.
Gradient Technique
D4703 Practice for Compression Molding Thermoplastic
5.2 Hot Plate, to boil water.
Materials into Test Specimens, Plaques, or Sheets
5.3 Beakers, 250-mL low form, graduated, with watch-glass
covers.
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D20 on Plastics and
6. Sample
is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D20.15 on Thermoplastic Materials
(D20.15.01).
6.1 Polyethylene, in any form suitable for test in accordance
Current edition approved March 15, 2023. Published March 2023. Originally
with Test Method D1238.
approved in 1969. Last previous edition approved in 2016 as D2839 - 16. DOI:
10.1520/D2839-16R23.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or 7. Procedure
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
7.1 Prepare a Melt Index Strand by extruding the sample in
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website. accordance with Test Method D1238, Condition 190/2.16,
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of
...




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