ISO 17352:2008

Overview

ISO 17352:2008 is an international standard established by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) that specifies a precise test method for determining the silicon content in cobalt metal powders. This standard employs graphite-furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy (GFAAS) to accurately measure the mass fraction of silicon within cobalt powders, typically ranging from 5 µg/g to 40 µg/g. Designed for use in well-equipped laboratory environments, ISO 17352:2008 provides the essential protocols for sample preparation, analysis, calibration, and reporting, ensuring consistency and reliability in testing hardmetal materials.

Key Topics

• Scope and Application
  The standard is applicable to cobalt metal powders with varying compositions and is intended for trace silicon determination, supporting quality control and material characterization in powder metallurgy.

• Analytical Principle
  The approach relies on graphite-furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy, a sensitive method for detecting low concentrations of silicon by atomizing the sample in a graphite furnace and measuring absorption at a wavelength of 251.6 nm.

• Sample Preparation
  Approximately 0.5 g of cobalt powder is dissolved using a combination of nitric acid (ρ = 1.4 g/ml) and hydrochloric acid (ρ = 1.15 g/ml), followed by dilution to a standardized volume with double-distilled water to ensure precise quantification.

• Instrumentation Parameters
  Key operational parameters for the GFAAS include the use of a hollow cathode lamp specific for silicon, a coated pyrolytic carbon tube without a platform, and a temperature program involving drying (120 °C), ashing (1,200 °C), atomizing (2,700 °C), and conditioning (2,750 °C).

• Calibration Methodology
  Calibration employs ultrapure cobalt powder spiked with known silicon concentrations (0, 5, 10, 20, and 40 µg of Si per solution volume) to create a reliable calibration curve for accurate silicon mass fraction calculations.

• Test Reporting
  The standard mandates comprehensive reporting that includes reference to ISO 17352, sample identification, obtained results, any deviations or optional procedures used, and observations impacting test outcomes.

Applications

ISO 17352:2008 is highly valuable in the hardmetals industry and powder metallurgy sectors where controlling trace silicon impurities in cobalt powders is critical. Silicon presence can affect the mechanical properties and corrosion resistance of sintered cobalt-based hardmetals, making precise measurement essential for manufacturing quality and performance assurance. The standard method supports:

• Quality control laboratories ensuring raw material compliance with specifications.
• Research and development activities focused on material composition analysis.
• Industrial production monitoring to optimize alloy properties and performance.
• Regulatory compliance ensuring trace elements are maintained within acceptable limits.

Related Standards

ISO 17352:2008 complements other standards concerning hardmetals and powder metallurgy, such as:

• ISO 3252: Vocabulary for Powder Metallurgy
  Defines terminology used in powder metallurgy, underpinning clear communication and standardization.

• ASTM B 243: Standard Terminology of Powder Metallurgy
  Provides widely recognized terms within the powder metallurgy industry, supporting the use of ISO 17352 in global contexts.

These standards collectively enhance consistency in testing, terminology, and data reporting related to cobalt metal powders and hardmetal manufacturing.

By adhering to ISO 17352:2008 protocols, laboratories can ensure highly accurate and reproducible determination of silicon traces in cobalt powders, supporting better material characterization, improved production quality, and enhanced product reliability in industrial applications.