ASTM D4513-22

Standard Test Method for Particle Size Distribution of Catalytic Materials by Sieving

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This test method can be used to determine particle size distributions of catalysts and supports for materials specifications, manufacturing control, and research and development work.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the determination of particle size distribution of catalytic powder material using a sieving instrument and is one of several found valuable for the measurement of particle size. This test method is particularly suitable for particles in the 20 to 420 μm range. (See Terminology D3766.)  
1.2 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.2.1 Exception—In 5.2, mesh size is the standard unit of measure.  
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.  
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: 30-Sep-2022
• ICS: 19.120 - Particle size analysis. Sieving
• Technical Committee: D32 - Catalysts
• Drafting Committee: D32.02 - Physical-Mechanical Properties

Relations

• Refers: ASTM D3766-24a - Standard Terminology Relating to Catalysts and Catalysis
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2024
• Refers: ASTM D3766-24 - Standard Terminology Relating to Catalysts and Catalysis
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2024
• Refers: ASTM E456-13a(2022)e1 - Standard Terminology Relating to Quality and Statistics
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2022
• Refers: ASTM D3766-08(2018) - Standard Terminology Relating to Catalysts and Catalysis
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2018
• Refers: ASTM E456-13A(2017)e3 - Standard Terminology Relating to Quality and Statistics
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2017
• Refers: ASTM E456-13A(2017)e1 - Standard Terminology Relating to Quality and Statistics
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2017
• Refers: ASTM E177-14 - Standard Practice for Use of the Terms Precision and Bias in ASTM Test Methods
• Effective Date: 01-May-2014
• Refers: ASTM E456-13a - Standard Terminology Relating to Quality and Statistics
• Effective Date: 15-Nov-2013
• Refers: ASTM E456-13ae3 - Standard Terminology Relating to Quality and Statistics
• Effective Date: 15-Nov-2013
• Refers: ASTM E456-13ae2 - Standard Terminology Relating to Quality and Statistics
• Effective Date: 15-Nov-2013
• Refers: ASTM E456-13ae1 - Standard Terminology Relating to Quality and Statistics
• Effective Date: 15-Nov-2013
• Refers: ASTM E11-13 - Standard Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test Sieves
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2013
• Refers: ASTM E456-13 - Standard Terminology Relating to Quality and Statistics
• Effective Date: 15-Aug-2013
• Refers: ASTM E177-13 - Standard Practice for Use of the Terms Precision and Bias in ASTM Test Methods
• Effective Date: 01-May-2013
• Refers: ASTM D3766-08(2013) - Standard Terminology Relating to Catalysts and Catalysis
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2013

Overview

ASTM D4513-22 is the standardized test method for determining the particle size distribution of catalytic materials by sieving. This method is widely used within the catalyst manufacturing, quality control, and research sectors to analyze powder-form catalysts and supports. The test is specifically designed for particle sizes ranging between 20 and 420 micrometres (µm), utilizing a series of sieves to fractionalize the sample and provide accurate measurement of particle size distribution.

Key Topics

• Particle Size Analysis: Provides a consistent approach to measuring the particle size distribution in catalytic powders, essential for material specification and performance evaluation.
• Sieving Instruments: Employs laboratory-grade automatic sieving equipment, with electroformed sieves recommended for optimal accuracy and durability.
• Sample Preparation:
  • Ensures samples are free-flowing, homogeneous, and equilibrated at controlled humidity and temperature before testing.
  • Utilizes sample splitters and proper riffling techniques to obtain representative sub-samples.
• Calibration and Standardization: Requires inspection and cleaning of all sieves prior to testing, with special attention to electroformed and woven-wire sieves for consistency.
• Measurement Procedure:
  • Stacking sieves in declining mesh size and transferring a pre-weighed sample to the top sieve.
  • Mechanical or automatic sieving continues until complete fractionation is achieved.
  • Weighing each sieve post-analysis to calculate weight percent and cumulative percent passing.
• Data Presentation: Results reported as weight percentage for each sieve and as cumulative percentage passing, supporting graphical representation for median particle size determination.
• Precision and Bias:
  • Includes guidelines for assessing repeatability and reproducibility across laboratories.
  • References established terminology for discussing instrument bias and test accuracy.

Applications

The ASTM D4513-22 method is essential in various aspects of catalyst material handling and quality assurance:

• Materials Specification: Enables manufacturers and buyers to confirm that catalytic supports and powders meet required particle size distributions for proper performance.
• Manufacturing Control: Supports process optimization and monitoring by providing reliable size distribution data needed for troubleshooting and efficiency improvements.
• Research and Development: Aids in the development and evaluation of new catalyst materials by offering repeatable and standardized sizing methodology.
• Quality Assurance in Catalysis: Ensures that catalyst batches are consistent, reducing variability in catalytic reaction performance due to particle size differences.
• Regulatory Compliance: Facilitates adherence to international trade and safety requirements by conforming to globally recognized ASTM and WTO principles.

Related Standards

Several ASTM standards are closely linked to ASTM D4513-22 and support best practices in particle size evaluation:

• ASTM D3766: Terminology Relating to Catalysts and Catalysis
• ASTM E11: Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test Sieves
• ASTM E105: Guide for Probability Sampling of Materials
• ASTM E161: Specification for Electroformed Material and Test Sieves
• ASTM E177: Practice for Use of the Terms Precision and Bias in ASTM Test Methods
• ASTM E456: Terminology Relating to Quality and Statistics

These referenced standards provide definitions, apparatus recommendations, and guidance for precise and accurate measurement, making ASTM D4513-22 a critical part of particle size testing in catalyst technology.

Keywords: catalyst, particle size distribution, sieving method, powder analysis, ASTM D4513-22, laboratory testing, catalyst manufacturing, quality control

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: D4513 − 22
Standard Test Method for
Particle Size Distribution of Catalytic Materials by Sieving
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D4513; 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 ASTM Test Methods
E456 Terminology Relating to Quality and Statistics
1.1 This test method covers the determination of particle
size distribution of catalytic powder material using a sieving
3. Summary of Test Method
instrument and is one of several found valuable for the
3.1 A50 % relative humidity-equilibrated sample of known
measurement of particle size. This test method is particularly
weight is allowed to fractionate on a series of various size
suitable for particles in the 20 to 420 µm range. (See Termi-
sieves to allow the various particle sizes to be collected on
nology D3766.)
successively smaller sieve openings.
1.2 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded
3.2 The sample fraction collected on each sieve of the series
as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this
is weighed and its fractional part of the original sample is
standard.
determined.
1.2.1 Exception—In 5.2, mesh size is the standard unit of
measure.
4. Significance and Use
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the
4.1 This test method can be used to determine particle size
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
distributions of catalysts and supports for materials
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
specifications, manufacturing control, and research and devel-
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
opment work.
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.4 This international standard was developed in accor-
5. Apparatus
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
5.1 Laboratory Sieving Instrument, automatic with timer
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
preferred.
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
5.2 U.S.StandardSieves,orequivalent,toincludemicrome-
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
tres (mesh) 425(40), 250(60), 177(80), 149(100), 105(140),
74(200), 44(325) and electroformed 30 and 20 micrometres.
2. Referenced Documents
Because of their superior uniformity and resistance to distor-
tion or damage during use, electroformed sieves, preferably
2.1 ASTM Standards:
with square holes, are recommended. Sieves with diameters
D3766 Terminology Relating to Catalysts and Catalysis
between 6 and 10 cm are suggested.
E11 Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test
Sieves
5.3 Ultrasonic Cleaning Tank, 100 W.
E105 Guide for Probability Sampling of Materials
5.4 Transmitted Light Microscope, 300 magnification, with
E161 Specification for Electroformed Material and Test
calibrated scale eyepiece.
Sieves
5.5 Heat Gun Dryer, (hair dryer or equivalent).
E177 Practice for Use of the Terms Precision and Bias in
5.6 Analytical Balance, capable of weighing to 0.001 g.
5.7 Sample Splitter, Chute Type, or Spinning Riffler, with
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D32 on
spinning riffler preferred.
Catalysts and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D32.02 on Physical-
Mechanical Properties.
Current edition approved Oct. 1, 2022. Published October 2022. Originally 6. Reagents
approved in 1985. Last previous edition approved in 2017 as D4513 – 11(2017).
6.1 Antistatic Coating, (record cleaning spray or equiva-
DOI: 10.1520/D4513-22.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or lent).
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
6.2 Alcohol-Water Solution—One part ethanol to nine parts
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website. deionized or distilled water.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D4513 − 22
TABLE 1 Presentation of Data Weight of Sample Used, 0.610 g
7. Sampling
Mesh Size Net Weight, Weight % Cumulative %
7.1 Obtain a representative sample of material from larger Sieve No.
microns g Sieve Fraction Passing
composites by riffling or splitting in accordance with subsec-
100 149 0.037 6.1 93.9
tion5.12ofSTP447A, orsomeothersuitablemeans,withthe
140 105 0.034 5.6 88.3
200 74 0.083 13.6 74.7
aim of obtaining a sample that represents the size distribution
325 44 0.193 31.6 43.1
of the larger composite. The analyst should also consult Guide
635 20 0.196 32.1 11.0
E105 to help develop a sampling plan.
Pan 0.067 11.0
Total weight recovered 0.610 100.0
7.1.1 Thesamplemustbefree-flowingandhomogeneous.If
particle size segregation is apparent to either the eye or from
observation under a microscope, remix and resample the
material using the proper riffling procedure.
NOTE3—Aftercompletionofsieving,noneofthesievesshouldcontain
more than two to three particle layers. For most powder samples, 0.5 g of
7.2 Equilibrate the sample at 20 to 25 °C (68 to 77 °F) in a
sample provides a satisfactory quantity distribution.
desiccator with a humidity level of 50 %. A 24 h period is
usually sufficient.
9.10 Stop the sieve action.
9.11 Remove sieves carefully and weigh each sieve and the
8. Calibration and Standardization
pan separately. Note the gross weight for each one and record
8.1 Prior to use, check all sieves for damage or improper
above the corresponding tare weight.
cleaning. If woven-wire sieves are used rather than the pre-
9.12 Sum the weight of sample on each sieve and the pan to
ferred electroformed sieves, it is especially important to
obtain the total weight of the recovered sample. The total
carefullyinspectthewiresurfaceforwear,misalignment,tears,
weight of recovered material should check within 5 mg of the
...

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: D4513 − 11 (Reapproved 2017) D4513 − 22
Standard Test Method for
Particle Size Distribution of Catalytic Materials by Sieving
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D4513; 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 covers the determination of particle size distribution of catalytic powder material using a sieving instrument
and is one of several found valuable for the measurement of particle size. This test method is particularly suitable for particles in
the 20 to 420-μm420 μm range. (See Terminology D3766.)
1.2 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this
standard.
1.2.1 Exception—In 5.2, mesh size is the standard unit of measure.
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 safety, health, and healthenvironmental practices and determine the
applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
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:
D3766 Terminology Relating to Catalysts and Catalysis
E11 Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test Sieves
E105 Guide for Probability Sampling of Materials
E161 Specification for Electroformed Material and Test Sieves
E177 Practice for Use of the Terms Precision and Bias in ASTM Test Methods
E456 Terminology Relating to Quality and Statistics
3. Summary of Test Method
3.1 A 50 % relative humidity-equilibrated sample of known weight is allowed to fractionate on a series of various size sieves to
allow the various particle sizes to be collected on successively smaller sieve openings.
3.2 The sample fraction collected on each sieve of the series is weighed and its fractional part of the original sample is determined.
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D32 on Catalysts and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D32.02 on Physical-Mechanical
Properties.
Current edition approved Feb. 1, 2017Oct. 1, 2022. Published February 2017October 2022. Originally approved in 1985. Last previous edition approved in 20112017 as
D4513D4513 – 11–11).(2017). DOI: 10.1520/D4513-11R17.10.1520/D4513-22.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D4513 − 22
4. Significance and Use
4.1 This test method can be used to determine particle size distributions of catalysts and supports for materials specifications,
manufacturing control, and research and development work.
5. Apparatus
5.1 Laboratory Sieving Instrument, automatic with timer preferred.
5.2 U.S. Standard Sieves, or equivalent, to include micrometres (mesh) 425(40), 250(60), 177(80), 149(100), 105(140), 74(200),
44(325) and electroformed 30 and 20 micrometres. Because of their superior uniformity and resistance to distortion or damage
during use, electroformed sieves, preferably with square holes, are recommended. Sieves with diameters between 6 and 10 cm
10 cm are suggested.
5.3 Ultrasonic Cleaning Tank, 100 W.100 W.
5.4 Transmitted Light Microscope, 300 magnification, with calibrated scale eyepiece.
5.5 Heat Gun Dryer, (hair dryer or equivalent).
5.6 Analytical Balance, capable of weighing to 0.001 g.0.001 g.
5.7 Sample Splitter, Chute Type, or Spinning Riffler, with spinning riffler preferred.
6. Reagents
6.1 Antistatic Coating, (record cleaning spray or equivalent.)equivalent).
6.2 Alcohol-Water Solution—One part ethanol to nine parts deionized or distilled water.
7. Sampling
7.1 The sample must be free-flowing and homogeneous. If particle Obtain a representative sample of material from larger
composites by riffling or splitting in accordance with subsection 5.12 of STP 447A, size segregation is apparent to either the eye
or from observation under a microscope, remix and or some other suitable means, with the aim of obtaining a sample that
represents the size distribution of the larger composite. The analyst should also consult Guide E105 resample the material using
the proper riffling procedure.to help develop a sampling plan.
7.1.1 The sample must be free-flowing and homogeneous. If particle size segregation is apparent to either the eye or from
observation under a microscope, remix and resample the material using the proper riffling procedure.
7.2 Equilibrate the sample at 20 to 25°C25 °C (68 to 77°F)77 °F) in a desiccator with a humidity level of 50 %. A 24-h24 h period
is usually sufficient.
8. Calibration and Standardization
8.1 Prior to use, check all sieves for damage or improper cleaning. If woven-wire sieves are used rather than the preferred
electroformed sieves, it is especially important to carefully inspect the wire surface for wear, misalignment, tears, creases, or
separation along the edges.
NOTE 1—Specifications for wire cloth sieves are described in Specification E11, and specifications for electroformed sieves are described in Specification
E161.
STP 447A, Manual on Test Sieving Methods, ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA 19428.
D4513 − 22
9. Procedure
9.1 Select appropriate sieves for the sample being analyzed, typically the 149, 105, 74, 44, and 20-μm20 μm sieves.
NOTE 2—For optimum results, the estimated particle size should be determined by microscopic examination at 100–300X. Sieves may then be selected
to cover the size range of the particles.
9.2 Clean 44 and 20-μm20 μm sieves prior to use in an ultrasonic bath using a 10 % ethanol, 90 % water
...