Standard Test Method for Measurement of Fines and Dust Particles on Plastic Pellets by Wet Analysis

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Molding and extruding plastic pellets require dust free, dry pellets to prevent processing problems. Plastic producers try to remove the dust and streamers with dust removal systems prior to packaging and loading. How to accurately measure dust and streamer content in plastic pellets is an important quality control issue.  
5.2 Particle size analysis is used to determine a percentage of particle size distribution from a representative sample of the whole. In terms of size analysis concerning plastic pellets, sieving is used to determine the dust content in the range of 500 to 2000 micron. Test Method D1921, Test Method B, is used to determine this type of particle sizing.  
5.3 After dry sieve analysis, particles smaller than 500 microns need to be analyzed by wet method. A fresh sample shall be used for wet analysis. This test method allows washing down the fines attached to the pellets by electrostatic forces.  
5.4 The wet analysis provides accurate quantification of small to large amounts of fines, negating static effects, and eliminating detrimental effects of mechanical agitation. A wet analysis must be employed to accurately quantify lower PPM dust levels in plastic pellets.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method measures the amount of fine particles adhered on plastic pellets or granules in which they are commonly produced and supplied. The lower limit of this test method is restricted only by the porosity of the filter disc used to capture the particle size being quantified.  
1.2 The wet analysis technique allows for separation and collection of statically charged particles by liquid wash and filtration methods. This must be performed under standard laboratory conditions.  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard.  
1.4 This test method describes an essential practice to check the quality of plastics once the production cycle is terminated and to evaluate the performance of pellet cleaning systems or of the special pneumatic conveying systems for the distinct size fractions below 500 micron only.  
1.5 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.  
1.6 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-Oct-2022
Technical Committee
D20 - Plastics
Drafting Committee
D20.70 - Analytical Methods

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-Oct-2013
Effective Date
01-May-2013
Effective Date
15-Nov-2012
Effective Date
01-Aug-2012
Effective Date
01-Nov-2011
Effective Date
15-May-2011

Overview

ASTM D7486-22 is the internationally recognized standard test method for the measurement of fine particles and dust (fines) on plastic pellets using wet analysis. Accurate quantification of fines and dust in plastic pellets is essential in the plastics industry, as excess dust can cause quality and processing issues during molding, extrusion, and transport. This standard method provides a reliable laboratory procedure for determining the amount of fines smaller than 500 microns that adhere to plastic pellets, addressing challenges posed by static electricity and ensuring consistent product quality.

Key Topics

  • Purpose of Test Method: D7486-22 focuses on identifying and measuring fine particulate contamination on plastic pellets. These small particles, often generated during handling and conveying, can adhere to pellets via electrostatic forces, making conventional dry sieving ineffective for fines below 500 microns.

  • Wet Analysis Procedure: The method utilizes a liquid (typically water) to wash fines from the surface of pellets. This wash is then filtered to capture fines, which are weighed and recorded. Wet analysis eliminates static effects, improving the accuracy of dust measurement at lower concentrations.

  • FIne Measurement Range: The technique is suitable for measuring fines in the particle size range of approximately 1.6 to 500 microns, complementing dry sieving methods, which are more suitable for larger particle sizes (500–2000 microns).

  • Quality Control Application: This test method is essential for plastics manufacturers to evaluate the effectiveness of dust removal systems and pneumatic conveying systems, ensuring products meet rigorous cleanliness specifications.

  • Sample Representativeness: Careful sampling practices are emphasized to ensure the measured dust and fines accurately reflect the condition of large production lots or bulk shipments.

  • Interferences & Equipment: The standard describes the required apparatus (such as glass microfiber filters, sieves, beakers, and precise balances) and highlights sources of error, including filter paper material, filter handling, and the interaction of plastic additives with washing liquids.

Applications

  • Production Quality Audits: Ensuring that plastic pellets are free from dust and fines, which could lead to defects or machine downtime during molding or extrusion.

  • Pellet Cleaning System Assessment: Evaluating the performance of dedusting equipment or systems designed to reduce fines and streamers before packaging.

  • Compliance Documentation: Providing traceable data for clients and regulatory bodies regarding product quality and cleanliness.

  • Conveying System Monitoring: Validating that pneumatic conveying, storage, and transport methods do not generate excessive fines that could compromise downstream processing.

  • Research & Development: Supporting product development and process optimization by accurately tracking changes in dust and fines following modifications to handling or production.

Related Standards

  • ASTM D1921: Test Methods for Particle Size (Sieve Analysis) of Plastic Materials - complementary for larger particle sizes (500–2000 microns) using dry sieving.
  • ASTM D883: Terminology Relating to Plastics - provides definitions for terms such as fines, dust, and streamers.
  • ASTM E11: Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test Sieves - covers requirements for sieves used in sample preparation.
  • ASTM E691: Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to Determine the Precision of a Test Method - relevant for evaluating repeatability and reproducibility.
  • FEM 2482: Test Method to Determine Content of Fines and Streamers in Plastic Pellets - an additional method used in Europe for similar applications.

Note: As of this edition, there is no ISO equivalent to ASTM D7486-22.

Practical Value

Implementing ASTM D7486-22 in your laboratory or production facility enhances plastic pellet quality assurance, supports compliance with customer specifications, and helps minimize processing problems related to dust and fines. The method's wet analysis approach ensures reliable, repeatable results for fines below 500 microns, allowing manufacturers and processors to maintain a high standard of product cleanliness throughout the supply chain.

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Frequently Asked Questions

ASTM D7486-22 is a standard published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Test Method for Measurement of Fines and Dust Particles on Plastic Pellets by Wet Analysis". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 5.1 Molding and extruding plastic pellets require dust free, dry pellets to prevent processing problems. Plastic producers try to remove the dust and streamers with dust removal systems prior to packaging and loading. How to accurately measure dust and streamer content in plastic pellets is an important quality control issue. 5.2 Particle size analysis is used to determine a percentage of particle size distribution from a representative sample of the whole. In terms of size analysis concerning plastic pellets, sieving is used to determine the dust content in the range of 500 to 2000 micron. Test Method D1921, Test Method B, is used to determine this type of particle sizing. 5.3 After dry sieve analysis, particles smaller than 500 microns need to be analyzed by wet method. A fresh sample shall be used for wet analysis. This test method allows washing down the fines attached to the pellets by electrostatic forces. 5.4 The wet analysis provides accurate quantification of small to large amounts of fines, negating static effects, and eliminating detrimental effects of mechanical agitation. A wet analysis must be employed to accurately quantify lower PPM dust levels in plastic pellets. SCOPE 1.1 This test method measures the amount of fine particles adhered on plastic pellets or granules in which they are commonly produced and supplied. The lower limit of this test method is restricted only by the porosity of the filter disc used to capture the particle size being quantified. 1.2 The wet analysis technique allows for separation and collection of statically charged particles by liquid wash and filtration methods. This must be performed under standard laboratory conditions. 1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. 1.4 This test method describes an essential practice to check the quality of plastics once the production cycle is terminated and to evaluate the performance of pellet cleaning systems or of the special pneumatic conveying systems for the distinct size fractions below 500 micron only. 1.5 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. 1.6 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 5.1 Molding and extruding plastic pellets require dust free, dry pellets to prevent processing problems. Plastic producers try to remove the dust and streamers with dust removal systems prior to packaging and loading. How to accurately measure dust and streamer content in plastic pellets is an important quality control issue. 5.2 Particle size analysis is used to determine a percentage of particle size distribution from a representative sample of the whole. In terms of size analysis concerning plastic pellets, sieving is used to determine the dust content in the range of 500 to 2000 micron. Test Method D1921, Test Method B, is used to determine this type of particle sizing. 5.3 After dry sieve analysis, particles smaller than 500 microns need to be analyzed by wet method. A fresh sample shall be used for wet analysis. This test method allows washing down the fines attached to the pellets by electrostatic forces. 5.4 The wet analysis provides accurate quantification of small to large amounts of fines, negating static effects, and eliminating detrimental effects of mechanical agitation. A wet analysis must be employed to accurately quantify lower PPM dust levels in plastic pellets. SCOPE 1.1 This test method measures the amount of fine particles adhered on plastic pellets or granules in which they are commonly produced and supplied. The lower limit of this test method is restricted only by the porosity of the filter disc used to capture the particle size being quantified. 1.2 The wet analysis technique allows for separation and collection of statically charged particles by liquid wash and filtration methods. This must be performed under standard laboratory conditions. 1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. 1.4 This test method describes an essential practice to check the quality of plastics once the production cycle is terminated and to evaluate the performance of pellet cleaning systems or of the special pneumatic conveying systems for the distinct size fractions below 500 micron only. 1.5 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. 1.6 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 D7486-22 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 83.140.99 - Other rubber and plastics products. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.

ASTM D7486-22 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 E11-13, ASTM E691-13, ASTM D883-12e1, ASTM D1921-12, ASTM E691-11, ASTM D883-11. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.

ASTM D7486-22 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: D7486 − 22
Standard Test Method for
Measurement of Fines and Dust Particles on Plastic Pellets
by Wet Analysis
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D7486; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision.Anumber in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope* D1921Test Methods for Particle Size (Sieve Analysis) of
Plastic Materials
1.1 This test method measures the amount of fine particles
E11Specification forWovenWireTest Sieve Cloth andTest
adhered on plastic pellets or granules in which they are
Sieves
commonly produced and supplied. The lower limit of this test
E691Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to
method is restricted only by the porosity of the filter disc used
Determine the Precision of a Test Method
to capture the particle size being quantified.
2.2 FEM Standards:
1.2 The wet analysis technique allows for separation and
FEM2482Test Method to Determine Content of Fines and
collection of statically charged particles by liquid wash and
Streamers in Plastic Pellets.
filtration methods. This must be performed under standard
laboratory conditions.
3. Terminology
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
3.1 Definitions—For definitions of terms associated with
standard.
plastic materials, see Terminology D883.
1.4 Thistestmethoddescribesanessentialpracticetocheck
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
the quality of plastics once the production cycle is terminated
3.2.1 fines—fines (Dust) are small particles of plastic which
and to evaluate the performance of pellet cleaning systems or
have been torn away from the original pellet by contact with a
ofthespecialpneumaticconveyingsystemsforthedistinctsize
rough surface and friction at high conveying velocities. They
fractions below 500 micron only.
are defined as the particle fraction with a particle size up to
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the
2000 µm.
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
3.2.2 streamers—strings of plastics of various lengths that
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
are created when the resin travels through pneumatic convey-
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
ing lines at high velocity. Streamers are also known as angel
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
hair, foil, floss, film or snake skin.
NOTE 1—There is no known ISO equivalent to this standard.
4. Summary of Test Method
1.6 This international standard was developed in accor-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
4.1 Fines or streamers, or both, are generated in polymer
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
resins during pneumatic conveying. Fines and streamers are
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
known to cause problems in plastic producing and processing
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
plants by clogging the transporting and procession lines. On
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
finished products, fines cause the formation of gel,
contamination, surface imperfection and weak spots.
2. Referenced Documents
2 4.2 The streamer content for a particle size considerably
2.1 ASTM Standards:
largerthanthepelletdiameteraredeterminedbydryscreening
D883Terminology Relating to Plastics
according to Test Method D1921.
ThistestmethodisunderthejurisdictionofASTMCommitteeD20onPlastics
4.3 The fundamental principle used in this document is
and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D20.70 on Analytical Methods.
based upon the condition that statically charged fines normally
Current edition approved Nov. 1, 2022. Published November 2022. Originally
adhering to plastic pellets be removed by rinsing the test
approved in 2008. Last previous edition approved in 2014 as D7486 - 14.
DOI:10.1520/D7486-22.
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 AvailablefromEuropeanFederationofMaterialsHandling,DiamantBuilding,
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on 80BoulevardAugusteReyersB,1030Brussels,Belgium,http://www.fem-eur.com.
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
D7486 − 22
TABLE 1 Comparison of Typical Particle Sizes Measured
6.7 Discardsievesifthewire-clothisdamagedornolonger
Type Lower Limit Upper Limit Test Method taut, as they no longer conform to Specification E11.
D1921 500 µm 2000 µm dry
A
6.8 Use a non-stick, high temperature surface for the oven
D7486 1.6 µm 500 µm wet
A racks. The glass microfiber filter discs stick to the metal oven
The lower limit is set by the porosity of the filter disk.
rack during the drying process.
7. Apparatus
sample with a washing liquid, causing fines in the sample to
wash away into a container. These particles are then poured
7.1 The function of the apparatus (see Fig. 1) is to separate
intoafilterfunneltoseparatethefinesfromthewashingliquid.
all fines below 500 micron from the pellets of the product
The weight of the filter paper is accurately measured before
sample to be tested. The apparatus runs with a washing liquid
and after the collection process, and used to calculate the PPM
in recirculation mode.
level for that sample.
7.2 Theapparatusconsistsofawashbeakerwithsprayhose
4.4 Wetanalysisquantifiestheamountsofdustwithparticle
and nozzle, a filter funnel, a water tank reservoir with drain, a
sizes typically from 1.6 to 500 microns.
pump with throttle valve and flow meter, and connecting
piping. The entire set-up consists of the following equipment.
5. Significance and Use
7.2.1 Balance, with a capacity of 500 g or higher, sensitive
5.1 Molding and extruding plastic pellets require dust free, to 0.1 mg.
dry pellets to prevent processing problems. Plastic producers 7.2.2 Scale,withacapacityof1200gorhigher,sensitiveto
trytoremovethedustandstreamerswithdustremovalsystems 0.1 g.
prior to packaging and loading. How to accurately measure 7.2.3 Oven,gravityconvection,controlledupto100 65°C.
dust and streamer content in plastic pellets is an important 7.2.4 Wire-Cloth Sieve, 8-in. or 200-mm, full height, con-
quality control issue. forming to the requirements of Specification E11, 500 micron.
7.2.5 Filtration Disc, glass microfiber, diameter 90 mm,
5.2 Particle size analysis is used to determine a percentage
porosity 0.7 to 2.7 micron, thickness , 260 to 420 micron,
ofparticlesizedistributionfromarepresentativesampleofthe
tensile range, 5.5 to 8.9 N/15 mm.
whole. In terms of size analysis concerning plastic pellets,
7.2.6 Filter Funnel Assembly, 3-piece, borosilicate glass,
sievingisusedtodeterminethedustcontentintherangeof500
able to hold a 90-mm filter disc.
to2000micron.TestMethodD1921,TestMethodB,isusedto
7.2.7 Filtering Flask, 1000-mL, borosilicate glass, to con-
determine this type of particle sizing.
nect to filter funnel.
5.3 After dry sieve analysis, particles smaller than 500
7.2.8 Beaker, 1500-mL, borosilicate glass, to hold washed
microns need to be analyzed by wet method. A fresh sample
test sample.
shallbeusedforwetanalysis.Thistestmethodallowswashing
7.2.9 Funnel, 260-mm. top O.D., to hold sieve during test
down the fines attached to the pellets by electrostatic forces.
sample washing.
5.4 The wet analysis provides accurate quantification of 7.2.10 Nozzle, flat fan spray, for washing test sample at line
pressures below 2.8 Bar.
small to large amounts of fines, negating static effects, and
eliminating detrimental effects of mechanical agitation. A wet 7.2.11 Tweezers or Forceps, blunt nose, for handling filtra-
analysis must be employed to accurately quantify lower PPM tion disc.
7.2.12 Plastic Sheet, non-stick surface, polytetrafluoroeth-
dust levels in plastic pellets.
ylene (PTFE), 1-mm thick, to keep filtration discs from
6. Interferences
sticking to oven rack during drying process.
7.2.13 Aspirator, to allow flushing of sample and support
6.1 Filtration paper has to be made of glass microfiber
return flow of water back to the storage tank.
material. Paper filter fibers swell, reducing filtration speed and
7.2.14 Water Storage Tank, with drain valve and bottom
increasing filtration time.
outlet for recirculation loop.All inlet and outlet openings must
6.2 Glass microfiber filters are fragile. Care must be taken
be of sufficient size to enable the necessary liquid flow rates to
whenhandlingthewetfiltertokeeptearsfrombeingproduced.
be achieved.
6.3 Some plastics contain certain additives that dissolve in
7.2.15 Wash Bottle, with safety label, to rinse 1500-mL
washingliquids.Thiscreatesaparticulatecloudofth
...


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: D7486 − 14 D7486 − 22
Standard Test Method for
Measurement of Fines and Dust Particles on Plastic Pellets
by Wet Analysis
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D7486; 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*
1.1 This test method measures the amount of fine particles adhered on plastic pellets or granules in which they are commonly
produced and supplied. The lower limit of this test method is restricted only by the porosity of the filter disc used to capture the
particle size being quantified.
1.2 The wet analysis technique allows for separation and collection of statically charged particles by liquid wash and filtration
methods. This must be performed under standard laboratory conditions.
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard.
1.4 This test method describes an essential practice to check the quality of plastics once the production cycle is terminated and
to evaluate the performance of pellet cleaning systems or of the special pneumatic conveying systems for the distinct size fractions
below 500 micron only.
1.5 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 safety, health, and healthenvironmental practices and determine the
applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
NOTE 1—There is no known ISO equivalent to this standard.
1.6 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
D1921 Test Methods for Particle Size (Sieve Analysis) of Plastic Materials
E11 Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test Sieves
E691 Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to Determine the Precision of a Test Method
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D20 on Plastics and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D20.70 on Analytical Methods.
Current edition approved Aug. 1, 2014Nov. 1, 2022. Published September 2014November 2022. Originally approved in 2008. Last previous edition approved in 20132014
ϵ1
as D7486 - 08(2013)14. . DOI:10.1520/D7486-14. DOI:10.1520/D7486-22.
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
D7486 − 22
TABLE 1 Comparison of Typical Particle Sizes Measured
Type Lower Limit Upper Limit Test Method
D1921 500 μm 2000 μm dry
A
D7486 1.6 μm 500 μm wet
A
The lower limit is set by the porosity of the filter disk.
2.2 FEM Standards:
FEM 2482 Test Method to Determine Content of Fines and Streamers in Plastic Pellets.
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—For definitions of terms associated with plastic materials, see Terminology D883.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 fines—fines (Dust) are small particles of plastic which have been torn away from the original pellet by contact with a rough
surface and friction at high conveying velocities. They are defined as the particle fraction with a particle size up to 2000 μm.
3.2.2 streamers—strings of plastics of various lengths that are created when the resin travels through pneumatic conveying lines
at high velocity. Streamers are also known as angel hair, foil, floss, film or snake skin.
4. Summary of Test Method
4.1 Fines or streamers, or both, are generated in polymer resins during pneumatic conveying. Fines and streamers are known to
cause problems in plastic producing and processing plants by clogging the transporting and procession lines. On finished products,
fines cause the formation of gel, contamination, surface imperfection and weak spots.
4.2 The streamer content for a particle size considerably larger than the pellet diameter are determined by dry screening according
to Test Method D1921.
4.3 The fundamental principle used in this document is based upon the condition that statically charged fines normally adhering
to plastic pellets be removed by rinsing the test sample with a washing liquid, causing fines in the sample to wash away into a
container. These particles are then poured into a filter funnel to separate the fines from the washing liquid. The weight of the filter
paper is accurately measured before and after the collection process, and used to calculate the PPM level for that sample.
4.4 Wet analysis quantifies the amounts of dust with particle sizes typically from 1.6 to 500 microns.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 Molding and extruding plastic pellets require dust free, dry pellets to prevent processing problems. Plastic producers try to
remove the dust and streamers with dust removal systems prior to packaging and loading. How to accurately measure dust and
streamer content in plastic pellets is an important quality control issue.
5.2 Particle size analysis is used to determine a percentage of particle size distribution from a representative sample of the whole.
In terms of size analysis concerning plastic pellets, sieving is used to determine the dust content in the range of 500 to 2000 micron.
Test Method D1921, Test Method B, is used to determine this type of particle sizing.
5.3 After dry sieve analysis, particles smaller than 500 microns need to be analyzed by wet method. A fresh sample shall be used
for wet analysis. This test method allows washing down the fines attached to the pellets by electrostatic forces.
5.4 The wet analysis provides accurate quantification of small to large amounts of fines, negating static effects, and eliminating
detrimental effects of mechanical agitation. A wet analysis must be employed to accurately quantify lower PPM dust levels in
plastic pellets.
Available from European Federation of Materials Handling, Diamant Building, 80 Boulevard Auguste Reyers B, 1030 Brussels, Belgium, http://www.fem-eur.com.
D7486 − 22
6. Interferences
6.1 Filtration paper has to be made of glass microfiber material. Paper filter fibers swell, reducing filtration speed and increasing
filtration time.
6.2 Glass microfiber filters are fragile. Care must be taken when handling the wet filter to keep tears from being produced.
6.3 Some plastics contain certain additives that dissolve in washing liquids. This creates a particulate cloud of the washing liquid,
clogs the filter paper, and gives inaccurate weight results.
6.4 When analyzing material that reacts with heat (low melting temperature), a lower drying temperature is required.
6.5 Too much material on a sieve causes mass blinding. Pellet bed depth has to be kept to no more than two pellets deep.
6.6 Replace the water and clean supply hoses on a regular basis. Algae or slime can develop and skew test results.
6.7 Discard sieves if the wire-cloth is damaged or no longer taut, as they no longer conform to Specification E11.
6.8 Use a non-stick, high temperature surface for the oven racks. The glass microfiber filter discs stick to the metal oven rack
during the drying process.
7. Apparatus
7.1 The function of the apparatus (see Fig. 1) is to separate all fines below 500 micron from the pellets of the product sample to
be tested. The apparatus runs with a washing liquid in recirculation mode.
7.2 The apparatus consists of a wash beaker with spray hose and nozzle, a filter funnel, a water tank reservoir with drain, a pump
with throttle valve and flow meter, and connecting piping. The entire set-up consists of the following equipment.
7.2.1 Balance, with a capacity of 500 g or higher, sensitive to 0.1 mg.
7.2.2 Scale, with a capacity of 1200 g or higher, sensitive to 0.1 g.
7.2.3 Oven, gravity convection, controlled up to 100 6 5°C.
7.2.4 Wire-Cloth Sieve, 8-in. or 200-mm, full height, conforming to the requirements of Specification E11, 500 micron.
7.2.5 Filtration Disc, glass microfiber, diameter 90 mm, porosity 0.7 to 2.7 micron, thickness , 260 to 420 micron, tensile range,
5.5 to 8.9 N/15 mm.
7.2.6 Filter Funnel Assembly, 3-piece, borosilicate glass, able to hold a 90-mm filter disc.
7.2.7 Filtering Flask, 1000-mL, borosilicate glass, to connect to filter funnel.
7.2.8 Beaker, 1500-mL, borosilicate glass, to hold washed test sample.
7.2.9 Funnel, 260-mm. top O.D., to hold sieve during test sample washing.
7.2.10 Nozzle, flat fan spray, for washing test sample at line pressures below 2.8 Bar.
7.2.11 Tweezers or Forceps, blunt nose, for handling filtration disc.
7.2.12 Plastic Sheet, non-stick surface, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), 1-mm thick, to keep filtration discs from sticking to oven
rack during drying process.
D7486 − 22
FIG. 1 Test Equipment for Determining Fines Content in Plastic Pellets
7.2.
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