ASTM D7711-23
(Guide)Standard Guide for Description of Polymer Pellet Defects
Standard Guide for Description of Polymer Pellet Defects
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This guide is intended to provide terminology for both suppliers and users of polymer pellets to ensure mutual understanding in discussions concerning pellet defects. It is not an absolute standard but is to be referred to when issues with the quality and/or description of the polymeric materials arise.
4.2 The guide is categorized according to the best fit for the term and its description for ease of finding certain description types.
4.3 Some terms within this guide do not apply to all resin types. It is the user’s responsibility to determine if the term and its subsequent definition are applicable to the material in question.
4.4 Other terminology relating to polymers that are not included in this document can be found in additional standards such as Terminology D883.
4.5 Test Method D6290 can be used for the instrumental measurement of discoloration in plastics, including pellets, and of the degree of yellowness (or change of degree of yellowness) under daylight illumination of homogeneous, nonfluorescent, nearly colorless transparent or nearly-white translucent or opaque plastics.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide is a compilation of terms used to describe defects of polymeric pellets. Terms that are generally understood or defined adequately in readily available sources are not included.
1.2 Not every term is applicable to every type of pellet. Terms which apply to transparent pellets, for example, do not always apply to translucent or opaque pellets.
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 guide.
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
- 31-Jan-2023
- Technical Committee
- D20 - Plastics
- Drafting Committee
- D20.92 - Terminology
Relations
- Effective Date
- 01-Feb-2024
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2023
- Effective Date
- 01-Jan-2020
- Effective Date
- 01-Aug-2019
- Effective Date
- 15-Apr-2019
- Effective Date
- 01-Feb-2019
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2018
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2018
- Effective Date
- 15-Aug-2017
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2013
- Effective Date
- 15-Nov-2012
- Effective Date
- 15-May-2011
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2008
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2007
- Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2005
Overview
ASTM D7711-23: Standard Guide for Description of Polymer Pellet Defects provides standardized terminology for describing defects commonly found in polymeric pellets. Developed under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D20 on Plastics, this guide is a reference tool for both suppliers and users when assessing pellet quality or troubleshooting materials. Its purpose is to establish a common vocabulary, promoting better communication and ensuring mutual understanding in the polymer industry.
This guide is not an absolute specification but serves as a comprehensive glossary to help parties identify and discuss polymer pellet defects, assisting in quality control and material assessments. While some terms are broadly applicable, users should determine if each definition suits their specific resin or pellet type.
Key Topics
ASTM D7711-23 organizes polymer pellet defect terminology into the following categories:
Color Defects
- Discoloration: Any deviation from the pellet’s normal color.
- Opaque Center Pellet: A pellet with a center less clear (more opaque) than the outer regions.
- Striped Pellet: Pellet containing a stripe of different color than the rest.
Contamination Defects
- Die Pearls / Drools: Non-degraded particles breaking off from the die.
- Fines: Very small particles, dust, or unattached tails.
- Foreign Material Contamination: Presence of any material external to the original polymer.
- Oxidized Pellet: Contains deep yellow, brown, red, or black particles.
- Polymer Cross-Contamination: Unintentional mixture of dissimilar resins or compounds.
- Speck Contamination: Small pinpoint discolored particles on or within the pellet.
Size and Shape Defects
- Agglomerates / Clumps / Globs / Walnuts: Fused accumulations of pellets.
- Angel Hair: Thin, fiber-like polymer strands.
- Clusters / Triples: Three or more pellets fused together.
- Daisy Chains: Chain-like joining of pellets by strands.
- Marriages / Doubles / Twins: Two pellets fused into one.
- Pellet Non-Uniformity: Deviations from normal size/shape, including overlength or flattened pellets.
- Pellet Tail: Small, thin extension attached to a pellet.
- Shrink Voids: Void spaces in pellet centers, often due to process temperature fluctuations.
- Snake Skins / Streamers: Long, thin, film-like polymer pieces.
Integrity Defects
- Cracks: Visible breaks or splits within the pellet.
- Foamed / Foamy / Puffy Pellet: Contain voids from entrapped water or gases, often white and larger than typical pellets.
Applications
Implementing ASTM D7711-23 terminology brings significant benefits to polymer manufacturers, resin suppliers, quality control specialists, and end users:
- Quality Assurance: Enables precise identification and documentation of pellet defects for quality management systems.
- Supplier-Customer Communication: Promotes clear and mutual understanding of issues related to pellet quality, supporting effective dispute resolution.
- Production Optimization: Assists in diagnosing inefficiencies in pelletizing operations by categorizing and tracking specific defect types.
- Incoming Material Inspection: Standardized defect terminology aids in consistent inspection and acceptance/rejection criteria for batches.
- Training and Documentation: Facilitates employee education and standardized reporting in production and laboratory environments.
Related Standards
Several ASTM standards and references complement or are referenced within ASTM D7711-23:
- ASTM D883 - Terminology Relating to Plastics: Broader glossary of polymer terminology.
- ASTM D6290 - Test Method for Color Determination of Plastic Pellets: Instrumental measurement of discoloration and degree of yellowness in plastics.
- ISO Equivalent: Currently, there is no known ISO equivalent for this guide.
- World Trade Organization (WTO) TBT Committee Principles: ASTM D7711-23 is developed in accordance with internationally recognized guidelines for standardization.
By leveraging ASTM D7711-23, stakeholders in the plastics industry ensure improved quality, reduced misunderstandings, and enhanced outcomes in polymer pellet production and processing.
Get Certified
Connect with accredited certification bodies for this standard
Smithers Quality Assessments
US management systems and product certification.
DIN CERTCO
DIN Group product certification.
Sponsored listings
Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM D7711-23 is a guide published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Guide for Description of Polymer Pellet Defects". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 4.1 This guide is intended to provide terminology for both suppliers and users of polymer pellets to ensure mutual understanding in discussions concerning pellet defects. It is not an absolute standard but is to be referred to when issues with the quality and/or description of the polymeric materials arise. 4.2 The guide is categorized according to the best fit for the term and its description for ease of finding certain description types. 4.3 Some terms within this guide do not apply to all resin types. It is the user’s responsibility to determine if the term and its subsequent definition are applicable to the material in question. 4.4 Other terminology relating to polymers that are not included in this document can be found in additional standards such as Terminology D883. 4.5 Test Method D6290 can be used for the instrumental measurement of discoloration in plastics, including pellets, and of the degree of yellowness (or change of degree of yellowness) under daylight illumination of homogeneous, nonfluorescent, nearly colorless transparent or nearly-white translucent or opaque plastics. SCOPE 1.1 This guide is a compilation of terms used to describe defects of polymeric pellets. Terms that are generally understood or defined adequately in readily available sources are not included. 1.2 Not every term is applicable to every type of pellet. Terms which apply to transparent pellets, for example, do not always apply to translucent or opaque pellets. 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 guide. 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 guide is intended to provide terminology for both suppliers and users of polymer pellets to ensure mutual understanding in discussions concerning pellet defects. It is not an absolute standard but is to be referred to when issues with the quality and/or description of the polymeric materials arise. 4.2 The guide is categorized according to the best fit for the term and its description for ease of finding certain description types. 4.3 Some terms within this guide do not apply to all resin types. It is the user’s responsibility to determine if the term and its subsequent definition are applicable to the material in question. 4.4 Other terminology relating to polymers that are not included in this document can be found in additional standards such as Terminology D883. 4.5 Test Method D6290 can be used for the instrumental measurement of discoloration in plastics, including pellets, and of the degree of yellowness (or change of degree of yellowness) under daylight illumination of homogeneous, nonfluorescent, nearly colorless transparent or nearly-white translucent or opaque plastics. SCOPE 1.1 This guide is a compilation of terms used to describe defects of polymeric pellets. Terms that are generally understood or defined adequately in readily available sources are not included. 1.2 Not every term is applicable to every type of pellet. Terms which apply to transparent pellets, for example, do not always apply to translucent or opaque pellets. 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 guide. 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 D7711-23 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 83.080.01 - Plastics in general. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ASTM D7711-23 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM D883-24, ASTM D883-23, ASTM D883-20, ASTM D883-19c, ASTM D883-19a, ASTM D883-19, ASTM D883-18a, ASTM D883-18, ASTM D883-17, ASTM D6290-13, ASTM D883-12e1, ASTM D883-11, ASTM D883-08, ASTM D883-07, ASTM D6290-05e1. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ASTM D7711-23 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: D7711 − 23
Standard Guide for
Description of Polymer Pellet Defects
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D7711; 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* TERMS ASSOCIATED WITH COLOR DEFECTS:
3.2.1 discoloration, n—of a pellet, any deviation from the
1.1 This guide is a compilation of terms used to describe
product’s normal color.
defects of polymeric pellets. Terms that are generally under-
3.2.1.1 Discussion—Discoloration may not always be easily
stood or defined adequately in readily available sources are not
visible. Pellets which differ in color with respect to the
included.
appearance of a representative sample population are com-
1.2 Not every term is applicable to every type of pellet.
monly referred to by their distinguishing visible characteristics.
Terms which apply to transparent pellets, for example, do not
3.2.2 opaque center pellet, n—pellet that is translucent or
always apply to translucent or opaque pellets.
slightly translucent and has a center that is less clear (more
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the
opaque) by comparison to the remainder of the pellet.
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
3.2.3 striped pellet, n—pellet containing a stripe of a differ-
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
ent color than the remainder of the pellet.
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
TERMS ASSOCIATED WITH PELLET
CONTAMINATION DEFECTS:
NOTE 1—There is no known ISO equivalent to this guide.
3.2.4 die pearls, n—non-degraded particles that build up
1.4 This international standard was developed in accor-
and break off of the die.
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
3.2.5 drools—see die pearls
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
3.2.6 fines, n—very small particles, dust, or unattached tails.
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
3.2.7 foreign material contamination, n—of pellets, any
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
material in, on, or around the pellets that emanates from an
external source and has a composition different than that of the
2. Referenced Documents
pellet; also known as trash if it can be picked up separately.
2.1 ASTM Standards:
3.2.8 oxidized pellet, n—pellet with a deep yellow, brown,
D883 Terminology Relating to Plastics
red, or black particle present.
D6290 Test Method for Color Determination of Plastic
3.2.9 polymer cross-contamination, n—of a pellet, uninten-
Pellets
tional mixture of two or more dissimilar resins or compounds;
generally apparent by comparing key properties such as pellet
3. Terminology and Definitions
geometry, color, opacity, or hardness.
3.1 Definitions of Terms—For definitions of terms relating to
3.2.10 speck contamination, n—of a pellet, small pinpoint
plastics, see Terminology D883. Terms contained in Terminol-
particles of discolored matter, internal or external, which can
ogy D883 are not contained in this guide.
sometimes rub off.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.10.1 Discussion—Examples of peck contamination of
pellets include, but are not limited to: black, brown, yellow, or
white specks.
This guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D20 on Plastics and
is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D20.92 on Terminology. TERMS ASSOCIATED WITH PELLET SIZE OR
Current edition approved Feb. 1, 2023. Published March 2023. Originally
SHAPE DEFECTS:
approved in 2011. Last previous edition approved in 2015 as D7711 - 11(2015).
3.2.11 agglomerates, n—of pellets, thoroughly fused accu-
DOI:10.1520/D7711-23.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
mulation of pellets.
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
3.2.12 angel hair, n—relating to pellets, thin, fiber or
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website. thread-like strands of polymer.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D7711 − 23
3.2.13 clumps—see agglomerates 3.2.24 streamers—see snake skins
3.2.14 clusters, n—of pellets, three or more pellets fused
3.2.25 triples—see clusters
together.
3.2.26 twins—see marriages
3.2.14.1 Discussion—When there are three distinct pellets
they may be referred to as triples.
3.2.27 walnut
...
This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: D7711 − 11 (Reapproved 2015) D7711 − 23
Standard Guide for
Description of Polymer Pellet Defects
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D7711; 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 Scope*
1.1 This guide is a compilation of terms used to describe defects of polymeric pellets. Terms that are generally understood or
defined adequately in Terminology D883 or in other readily available sources are not included.
1.2 Not every term is applicable to every type of pellet. Terms which apply to transparent pellets, for example, do not always apply
to translucent or opaque pellets.
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 and healthsafety, health, and environmental practices and determine
the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
NOTE 1—There is no known ISO equivalent to this guide.
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.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D883 Terminology Relating to Plastics
D6290 Test Method for Color Determination of Plastic Pellets
3. Terminology and Definitions
3.1 Definitions of Terms—Pellet Color Defects and Terms:For definitions of terms relating to plastics, see Terminology D883.
Terms contained in Terminology D883 are not contained in this guide.
NOTE 2—Not all color defect terminology is applicable to all pellet types.
3.1.1 discoloration,n—of a pellet, any deviation from the product’s normal color.
3.1.2 opaque center pellet,n—pellet that is translucent or slightly translucent and has a less clear/more opaque center by
comparison to the remainder of the pellet.
This guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D20 on Plastics and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D20.92 on Terminology.
Current edition approved Sept. 1, 2015Feb. 1, 2023. Published September 2015March 2023. Originally approved in 2011. Last previous edition approved in 20112015
ɛ1
as D7711 - 11 . DOI:10.1520/D7711-11R15.(2015). DOI:10.1520/D7711-23.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D7711 − 23
3.1.3 striped pellet,n—pellet containing a stripe of a different color than the remainder of the pellet.
3.2 Pellet Contamination Defects and Terms:
3.2.1 die pearls,n—non-degraded particles that build up and break off of the die.
3.2.2 drools—see die pearls
3.2.3 fines,n—very small particles, dust, or unattached tails.
3.2.4 foreign material contamination,n—of pellets, any material in, on, or around the pellets that emanates from an external
source and has a composition different than that of the pellet; also known as trash if it can be picked up separately.
3.2.5 oxidized pellet,n—pellet with a deep yellow, brown, red, or black particle present.
3.2.6 polymer cross-contamination,n—of pellets, unintentional mixture of two or more dissimilar resins or compounds;
generally apparent by comparing key properties such as pellet geometry, color, opacity, or hardness.
3.2.7 speck contamination on/in,n—of a pellet, small pinpoint particles of discolored matter, internal or external, which can
sometimes rub off; includes, but is not limited to: black, brown, yellow, or white specks.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
TERMS ASSOCIATED WITH COLOR DEFECTS:
3.2.1 discoloration, n—of a pellet, any deviation from the product’s normal color.
3.2.1.1 Discussion—
Discoloration may not always be easily visible. Pellets which differ in color with respect to the appearance of a representative
sample population are commonly referred to by their distinguishing visible characteristics.
3.2.2 opaque center pellet, n—pellet that is translucent or slightly translucent and has a center that is less clear (more opaque) by
comparison to the remainder of the pellet.
3.2.3 striped pellet, n—pellet containing a stripe of a different color than the remainder of the pellet.
TERMS ASSOCIATED WITH PELLET CONTAMINATION DEFECTS:
3.2.4 die pearls, n—non-degraded particles that build up and break off of the die.
3.2.5 drools—see die pearls
3.2.6 fines, n—very small particles, dust, or unattached tails.
3.2.7 foreign material contamination, n—of pellets, any material in, on, or around the pellets that emanates from an external source
and has a composition different than that of the pellet; also known as trash if it can be picked up separately.
3.2.8 oxidized pellet, n—pellet with a deep yellow, brown, red, or black particle present.
3.2.9 polymer cross-contamination, n—of a pellet, unintentional mixture of two or more dissimilar resins or compounds; generally
apparent by comparing key properties such as pellet geometry, color, opacity, or hardness.
3.2.10 speck contamination, n—of a pellet, small pinpoint particles of discolored matter, internal or external, which can sometimes
rub off.
D7711 − 23
3.2.10.1 Discussion—
Examples of peck contamination of pellets include, but are not limited to: black, brown, yellow, or white specks.
TERMS ASSOCIATED WITH PELLET SIZE OR SHAPE DEFECTS:
3.2.11 agglomerates, n—of pellets, thoroughly fused accumulation of pellets.
3.2.12 angel hair, n—relating to pellets, thin, fiber or thread-like strands of polymer.
3.2.13 clumps—see agglomerates
3.2.14 clusters, n—of pellets, three or more pellets fused together.
3.2.14.1 Discussion—
When there are three distinct pellets they may be referred to as triples.
3.2.15 daisy chains, n—of pellets, two or more pellets joined together “chain-like” by strands of polymer; can be separated to form
pellet
...
Questions, Comments and Discussion
Ask us and Technical Secretary will try to provide an answer. You can facilitate discussion about the standard in here.
Loading comments...