ASTM F726-17

Standard Test Method for Sorbent Performance of Adsorbents for use on Crude Oil and Related Spills

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This test method is to be used as a basis for comparison of adsorbents in a consistent manner.  
5.2 These tests are not appropriate for absorbent materials that are covered in Methods F716.
Note 1: Ensure that material compatibilities exist between the sorbent and the hazardous substance which may be sorbed.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers laboratory tests that describe the performance of adsorbents in removing crude oils, nonemulsified oils and other floating, immiscible liquids from the surface of water.  
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
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. Specific precautionary statements are given in 8.3.1.  
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-Oct-2017
• ICS: 71.040.30 - Chemical reagents
• Technical Committee: F20 - Hazardous Substances and Oil Spill Response
• Drafting Committee: F20.22 - Mitigation Actions

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM F726-12 - Standard Test Method for Sorbent Performance of Adsorbents
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2017
• Refers: ASTM D2859-15 - Standard Test Method for Ignition Characteristics of Finished Textile Floor Covering Materials
• Effective Date: 15-Nov-2015
• Refers: ASTM D2859-06(2011) - Standard Test Method for Ignition Characteristics of Finished Textile Floor Covering Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2011
• Refers: ASTM F716-09 - Standard Test Methods for Sorbent Performance of Absorbents (Withdrawn 2018)
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2009
• Refers: ASTM F716-07 - Standard Test Methods for Sorbent Performance of Absorbents
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2007
• Refers: ASTM D2859-06 - Standard Test Method for Ignition Characteristics of Finished Textile Floor Covering Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2006
• Refers: ASTM D2859-04 - Standard Test Method for Ignition Characteristics of Finished Textile Floor Covering Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2004
• Refers: ASTM D2859-02 - Standard Test Method for Ignition Characteristics of Finished Textile Floor Covering Materials
• Effective Date: 10-Sep-2002
• Refers: ASTM D2859-96 - Standard Test Method for Ignition Characteristics of Finished Textile Floor Covering Materials
• Effective Date: 10-Dec-2001
• Refers: ASTM D2859-01 - Standard Test Method for Ignition Characteristics of Finished Textile Floor Covering Materials
• Effective Date: 10-Dec-2001
• Refers: ASTM F716-82(1993)e1 - Standard Methods of Testing Sorbent Performance of Absorbents
• Effective Date: 13-Jan-1982
• Refers: ASTM F716-82(2001) - Standard Methods of Testing Sorbent Performance of Absorbents
• Effective Date: 13-Jan-1982
• Referred By: ASTM F716-18 - Standard Test Methods for Sorbent Performance of Absorbents for Use on Chemical and Light Hydrocarbon Spills
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2017
• Referred By: ASTM F1127-22 - Standard Guide for Containment of Hazardous Material Spills by Emergency Response Personnel
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2017

Overview

ASTM F726-17: Standard Test Method for Sorbent Performance of Adsorbents for Use on Crude Oil and Related Spills is a laboratory-based international standard developed by ASTM International. This test method provides consistent procedures to evaluate and compare the sorbent performance of adsorbent materials used for crude oil, nonemulsified oils, and other floating, immiscible liquids on water surfaces. The scope addresses only adsorbents (not absorbents; see ASTM F716 for absorbents) and defines specific tests for storage, buoyancy, water uptake, oil uptake, and reusability. The standard is crucial for suppliers, manufacturers, regulators, and responders seeking reliable, repeatable data on adsorbent effectiveness in oil spill response and hazardous substance mitigation.

Key Topics

• Performance Evaluation: Details standardized tests to determine oil and water adsorbency, storage density, flammability, buoyancy, dynamic degradation, and reusability of various adsorbent types.
• Material Definitions: Distinguishes between adsorbents and absorbents, and defines sorbent forms (sheets, loose material, pillows, booms, agglomeration units).
• Sample Conditioning: Specifies conditioning protocols for temperature and humidity to ensure consistent test conditions.
• Test Protocols: Provides guidance for both short-term and long-term oil adsorption tests, measuring sorbent capacity and cost-effectiveness.
• Reuse Assessment: Outlines methods for evaluating the ability to reuse adsorbents after extraction of adsorbed oil through mechanical compression or centrifugation.
• Safety Precautions: Advises users to establish health, safety, and environmental practices and observe regulatory considerations while handling hazardous substances.

Applications

ASTM F726-17 is valuable in numerous industries and scenarios where oil and chemical spill response is essential:

• Oil Spill Response: Enables first responders, environmental contractors, and spill response teams to select suitable adsorbents for quick and effective crude oil or chemical spill cleanup on water surfaces.
• Product Development: Provides manufacturers with standardized benchmarks for marketing new or improved adsorbent materials used in environmental protection, marine spill kits, and industrial safety.
• Regulatory Compliance: Helps government agencies and regulators evaluate products for compliance with environmental response plans and oil spill contingency measures, ensuring environmental protection.
• Quality Assurance: Allows procurement and EHS (Environmental, Health, and Safety) professionals to compare adsorbent materials based on standardized laboratory test data.
• Military and Defense: Approved for use by U.S. Department of Defense agencies to assess material performance in hazardous spill scenarios on naval vessels, airfields, and depots.

Related Standards

For comprehensive oil spill response and adsorbent/absorbent evaluation, consider these related ASTM standards:

• ASTM F716: Test Methods for Sorbent Performance of Absorbents - covers absorbent materials not addressed by F726.
• ASTM D2859: Test Method for Ignition Characteristics of Finished Textile Floor Covering Materials - referenced for flammability testing.
• Federal Standard 141a: Methods of Inspection, Sampling, and Testing for paint and related materials - cited for storage evaluation.
• MIL-I-631D: Specification for insulation, electric, synthetic resin composition, nonrigid - referenced for assessing mildew resistance.

By adhering to ASTM F726-17 and understanding its practical applications, users can ensure the selection and use of reliable, effective sorbents to help protect the environment and public health during oil spill incidents. Regular review of relevant standards ensures continual improvement and compliance in spill response operations.

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: F726 − 17
Standard Test Method for
Sorbent Performance of Adsorbents for use on Crude Oil
and Related Spills
ThisstandardisissuedunderthefixeddesignationF726;thenumberimmediatelyfollowingthedesignationindicatestheyearoforiginal
adoptionor,inthecaseofrevision,theyearoflastrevision.Anumberinparenthesesindicatestheyearoflastreapproval.Asuperscript
epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope 2.3 Military Specification:
MIL-I-631D Insulation, Electric, Synthetic Resin
1.1 Thistestmethodcoverslaboratoryteststhatdescribethe
Composition, Nonrigid
performance of adsorbents in removing crude oils, nonemulsi-
fiedoilsandotherfloating,immiscibleliquidsfromthesurface
3. Terminology
of water.
3.1 General Terminology:
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
3.1.1 gellant—a material such as a colloidal network or
standard. No other units of measurement are included in this
other aggregate network that pervades and holds a liquid in a
standard.
highly viscous fragile structure. Many gels may rapidly liquify
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the
with added heat or ionic/polar addition. These materials are
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
soluble/flowable in excess liquid.
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
3.1.2 sorbent—aninsolublematerialormixtureofmaterials
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
used to recover liquids through the mechanisms of absorption
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
or adsorption, or both.
Specific precautionary statements are given in 8.3.1.
3.1.3 thickener—a material (usually of higher molecular
1.4 This international standard was developed in accor-
weight) that is soluble in excess liquid. These materials go
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
fromdrytogummy(viscoelastic)toflowableandthensoluble.
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
The final viscosity depends only on the liquid to solid ratio.
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
3.1.4 universal sorbent—aninsolublematerialormixtureof
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
materials that will sorb both hydrophobic and hydrophilic
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
liquid spills.
2. Referenced Documents
3.2 Definitions:
2.1 ASTM Standards:
3.2.1 absorbent—a material that picks up and retains a
D2859Test Method for Ignition Characteristics of Finished liquid distributed throughout its molecular structure causing
Textile Floor Covering Materials
the solid to swell (50% or more). The absorbent is at least
F716Test Methods for Sorbent Performance of Absorbents 70% insoluble in excess fluid.
2.2 Federal Standard:
3.2.2 adsorbent—an insoluble material that is coated by a
Fed. Std. No. 141aPaint, Varnish, Lacquer and Related
liquidonitssurfaceincludingporesandcapillarieswithoutthe
Materials, Methods of Inspection, Sampling and Testing
solid swelling more than 50% in excess liquid.
3.2.3 adsorbent cubage factor “C”—this is the ratio of
1 sorbent volume used to the liquid volume sorbed.
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F20 on
Hazardous Substances and Oil Spill Response and is the direct responsibility of
3.2.4 cubage—defines cubic content, volume, or displace-
Subcommittee F20.22 on Mitigation Actions.
ment.
Current edition approved Nov. 1, 2017. Published December 2017. Originally
approved in 1981. Last previous edition approved in 2012 as F726–12. DOI:
3.3 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
10.1520/F0726-17.
2 3.3.1 This test method does not apply to belt, rope, or weir
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
type skimming devices.
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
3.3.2 oil—a substantially water immiscible organic liquid
the ASTM website.
that will float on water (density less than 1 g/cm ), typically
Available from DLA Document Services, Building 4/D, 700 Robbins Ave.,
−3
Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, http://quicksearch.dla.mil. with surface tension less than 40 × 10 N/m.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F726 − 17
3.3.3 Type I adsorbent (roll, film, sheet, pad, blanket, cm (depth) crystallizing dish with a watch glass or glass plate
web)—a material with length and width much greater than cover. For larger samples, a 53 by 56 cm plastic sink (laundry
thickness and which has both linear form and strength suffi- tub or equivalent) to accommodate the sample is recom-
cient to be handled either saturated or unsaturated. mended.
3.3.4 Type II adsorbent (loose)—anunconsolidated,particu-
6.3 Mesh Baskets—The basket shall be of a sufficient size
latematerialwithoutsufficientformandstrengthtobehandled
and strength to accommodate the sample size and weight (150
except with scoops and similar equipment.
cm , 4 to 10 g minimum) when saturated.The basket must not
be so tall as to interfere with a protective lid for the test cell.
3.3.5 Type III adsorbent (enclosed):
3.3.5.1 IIIa, pillows—adsorbent material contained by an
NOTE2—Themeshshouldretainthesorbent,yetallowfreeoiltodrain
outer fabric or netting that has permeability to oil, but with away from the sorbent.
openings sufficiently small so as to substantially retain the
6.4 Shaker Table, capable of a frequency of 150 cycles/min
sorbent material within the fabric or netting.
and an amplitude of 2.5 cm.
3.3.5.2 IIIb, adsorbent booms—adsorbent material con-
6.5 TopLoadingBalance—forTypeIandIIadsorbent,fitted
tained by an outer fabric or netting that is permeable to oil but
with a hook or other handing mechanism, 400+ g maximum
withopeningssufficientlysmallsoastosubstantiallyretainthe
capacity with 0.1 g resolution, or equivalent.
sorbent material within the fabric or netting. The lengthwise
6.6 Continuous Reading Hanging Scale,forTypeIIIandIV
dimension substantially exceeds other dimensions and with
strengthmembersrunningparallelwithlength.Boomsarealso adsorbent,fittedwithahookorotherhandingmechanism,50+
kg maximum capacity with 100 g resolution, or equivalent.
provided with connections for coupling adsorbent booms
together.
7. Conditioning
3.3.6 Type IV-agglomeration unit—an assemblage of
strands, open netting, or other physical forms giving an open
7.1 Condition all adsorbent test specimens at 23 6 4°C and
structure that minimally impedes the intrusion into itself of
70 6 20% relative humidity for not less than 24 h prior to
high viscosity oils. Normally for use with viscous oils, typi-
testing. Condition specimens in a fully exposed state with no
cally above 10 000 cPviscosity. Said oils are then held in this
coverings or wrapping that would hinder the ambient equili-
structure permitting the composite oil/structure to be handled
bration process.
(pompoms).
7.2 If temperature conditions other than normal room tem-
3.3.7 reuse—the art of extracting adsorbed liquids from an
perature are expected to be important, then conditioning and
adsorbent through rolls or other compression techniques per-
testing should be carried out at temperatures of interest in
mitting the adsorbent to be used once again; limitations on
addition to those specified in 7.1.
reuse may include the U.S. Clean Water Act or other legal
8. Tests for Storage Properties
restrictions.
8.1 Storage Density—The density of the sorbent sample is
4. Summary of Test Method
calculated by determining the weight of a known volume
(standard sorbent package as delivered to the consumer) of the
4.1 The adsorbent material is tested using established stan-
sorbent.Ifstandardstoragepackagesarenotavailable,thenthe
dard tests for factors relating to storage, while specially
mass of at least 1 L of sorbent is determined to calculate the
developed tests are used for covering other performance
storage density.
factors. Oil and water adsorption strength, buoyancy, and
reusability tests are included among these latter tests.
8.2 Mildew—The susceptibility of an adsorbent to mildew
under normal storage is defined under MIL-1-631D, Section
5. Significance and Use
3.5.7. The objective of this test is to determine expected shelf
life under conditions which could lead to mildew.
5.1 This test method is to be used as a basis for comparison
of adsorbents in a consistent manner.
8.3 Flammability—The procedure for this test is described
in Test Method D2859, the Methenamine Pill Test. This test
5.2 These tests are not appropriate for absorbent materials
relates to ignition from a spark, cigarette, or other point source
that are covered in Methods F716.
such as might be encountered in normal shipping and storage.
NOTE 1—Ensure that material compatibilities exist between the sorbent
It should not be inferred that an adsorbent that passes this test
and the hazardous substance which may be sorbed.
will fail to burn if ignited in another manner such as full
building involvement, bonfire, and so forth, and it should
6. Apparatus
likewisebeunderstoodthatthetestislimitedtoandpertainsto
6.1 Exterior Exposure Tester, sufficient to be used under
only unsaturated adsorbent samples as normally supplied by
Federal Test Standard 141a, Method 6152, or actual exposure
the manufacturer.
as detailed in 8.2.
8.3.1 This test method should be used to measure and
6.2 Test Cells—The dimensions of the test cells shall be describe the properties of materials, products, or assemblies in
large enough to enable the adsorbent sample to float freely response to heat and flame under controlled laboratory con-
within the test cell. For Type I and Type II sorbents, the ditions and should not be used to describe or appraise the fire
recommendedtestcellisaborosilicate19cm(diameter)by10 hazard or fire risk of materials, products, assemblies under
F726 − 17
actual fire conditions. However, results of this test may be used 9.2.2 Type II Adsorbent—An adsorbent sample (approxi-
as elements of a fire risk assessment which takes into account mately 4 to 10 g or a maximum of 150 cm ) is first weighed
all of the factors which are pertinent to an assessment of the then placed in a 4Ljar that is half-filled with water and sealed.
fire hazard of a particular end use. The container is then placed on its side and mounted on a
8.3.2 Test Type I adsorbents as a single sheet or pad as shakertable,orsimilardevice,setatafrequencyof150cycles
supplied by the vendor. perminuteandanamplitudeof2.5cmforadurationof15min.
8.3.3 Uniformly arrange Type II adsorbents in a layer of The contents of the jar are allowed to settle for a period of 2
sufficient size to fit the test apparatus. The thickness should be min. Observations pertaining to the condition of the adsorbent
1.5 mm uncompressed and arranged such that the bulk density andtheconditionofthewaterarerecorded.If10%ormoreof
is equal to that found in the packaged product as supplied by the adsorbent material has sunk, then the adsorbent is consid-
the manufacturer. eredtohavefailedthistest.Thecontentsofthejararestrained
8.3.4 Any type adsorbent can be tested in the package in through a mesh basket to catch the adsorbent samples, which
which it is supplied by placing the standard Methenamine test are then weighed after a 30 s drain period. The water pick-up
mask on a flat portion of the package surface, and placing the ratio is calculated from the weight measurements (see 9.5).
pill in the center of the mask on the package and igniting it.
9.2.2.1 Thejarishalf-filledwithfreshwaterand3mLofoil
Results would be interpreted as in the normal test.
(medium crude, 300 cP oil, or equivalent) is added. The
adsorbent sample is returned to the jar, which is then sealed.
9. Tests for Performance Properties
The jar is placed on its side and mounted on a shaker table, or
similar device, set at a frequency of 150 cycles per minute and
9.1 These tests involve the use of oils with a range of
an amplitude of 2.5 cm for a duration of 15 min. The contents
viscosities and densities as indicated below.
of the jar are allowed to settle for a period of 2 min, at which
Oil Type Viscosity Range Density Range Example
time observations are noted. Observations include but are not
Light 1 to 10 cP 0.820 to 0.870 g/cm Diesel fuel,
limited to: quantity of adsorbent submerged, physical appear-
mineral oil
Medium 200 to 400 cP 0.860 to 0.970 g/cm Crude oil, canola oil,
ance of adsorbent and water, and the persistence and color of
mineral oil
residual test liquid sheen.
Heavy 1500 to 2500 cP 0.930 to 1.000 g/cm Bunker C or residual
fuel, mineral oil 9.2.3 Types IIIa, IIIb, IV Adsorbents—Both the outer fabric
Weathered 8000 to 10 000 cP 0.930 to 1.000 g/cm Emulsified crude oil,
or netting and the filler material are tested independently for
mineral oil
Type III adsorbents. Samples are prepared according to the
9.2 Dynamic Degradation Test—This procedure is designed
protocollistedin9.2.1fortheouterfabricornettingofTypeIII
to test for water take-up and to determine oleophilic properties
adsorbents and Type IV adsorbents, and the protocol listed in
of an adsorbent sample under dynamic conditions. This test is
9.2.2 is used for any particulate filler material used in Type III
performed at 23 6 4°C.
adsorbents. If the adsorbent material fails to remain floating as
9.2.1 Type I Adsorbent—Sample pieces of the adsorbent
described in 9.2.1 or 9.2.2, then the adsorbent is deemed to
(four pieces cut with a sharp edge (to minimize compaction)
have failed the dynamic degradation test.
intosquaresofapproximately6by6cm)arefirstweighedthen
9.3 Oil Adsorption-Short Test—This test gives idealized
placed ina4Ljar that is half-filled with water and sealed.The
laboratorydatathatcanbeusedtocompareoneadsorbent’soil
container is then placed on its side and mounted on a shaker
capacity with another and likewise give relative cost effective-
table, or similar device, set at a frequency of 150 cycles per
ness.Itshouldberecognizedthatundernormaluseconditions,
minute and an amplitude of 2.5 cm for a duration of 15 min.
an adsorbent will not be exposed to sufficient oil layer
The contents of the jar are allowed to settle for a period of 2
thickness to become completely or rapidly saturated. This test
min. Observations pertaining to the condition of the adsorbent
will, therefore, give maximum possible capacity data and
and the condition of the water are recorded. Any adsorbent
idealized time to saturation. The objective of this test is to
piecesthatdonotremainfloatingatthesurfaceofthewaterare
determine optimum adsorbent without the competing presence
considered to have failed this test. The contents of the jar are
of water.As such, this data relates only to oil layer thicknesses
strainedthroughamesh basket to catch the adsorbentsamples,
that approximate or exceed that of the adsorbent. All adsorp-
which are then weighed after a 30 s drain period. The water
tion test procedures to be run with adsorbent samples condi-
pick-up ratio is calculated from the weight measurements (see
tioned as in Section 7 and using specified oils at 23 6 4°C.
9.5).
9.3.1 Type I Adsorbent—The test liquid layer should be of a
9.2.1.1 Thejarishalf-filledwithfreshwaterand3mLofoil
minimum thickness of 2.5 cm if the thickness of the adsorbent
(medium crude, 300 cP oil, or equivalent) is added. The
is under 2.5 cm. If the adsorbent is thicker than 2.5 cm, then a
adsorbent sample is returned to the jar, which is then sealed.
liquid layer at least as thick as the adsorbent sample should be
The jar is placed on its side and mounted on a shaker table, or
used.
similar device, set at a frequency of 150 cycles per minute and
an amplitude of 2.5 cm for a duration of 15 min. The contents 9.3.1.1 The adsorbent sample to be tested shall be a mini-
of the jar are allowed to settle for a period of 2 min, at which mum weight of 4 g. Cut the sample with a sharp edge (to
time observations are noted. Observations include but are not minimize compaction) to minimum dimensions of 13 by 13
limited to: quantity of adsorbent submerged, physical appear- cm . The adsorbent is then weighed and the value is recorded.
ance of adsorbent and water, and the persistence and color of The test cell is filled with an initial layer of test liq
...

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: F726 − 12 F726 − 17
Standard Test Method for
Sorbent Performance of Adsorbents for use on Crude Oil
and Related Spills
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F726; 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.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope
1.1 This test method covers laboratory tests that describe the performance of adsorbents in removing crude oils, nonemulsified
oils and other floating, immiscible liquids from the surface of water.
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.
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. Specific precautionary statements are given in 8.3.1.
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:
D2859 Test Method for Ignition Characteristics of Finished Textile Floor Covering Materials
F716 Test Methods for Sorbent Performance of Absorbents
2.2 Federal Standard:
Fed. Std. No. 141a Paint, Varnish, Lacquer and Related Materials, Methods of Inspection, Sampling and Testing
2.3 Military Specification:
MIL-I-631D Insulation, Electric, Synthetic Resin Composition, Nonrigid
3. Terminology
3.1 General Terminology:
3.1.1 gellant—a material such as a colloidal network or other aggregate network that pervades and holds a liquid in a highly
viscous fragile structure. Many gels may rapidly liquify with added heat or ionic/polar addition. These materials are
soluble/flowable in excess liquid.
3.1.2 sorbent—an insoluble material or mixture of materials used to recover liquids through the mechanisms of absorption or
adsorption, or both.
3.1.3 thickener—a material (usually of higher molecular weight) that is soluble in excess liquid. These materials go from dry
to gummy (viscoelastic) to flowable and then soluble. The final viscosity depends only on the liquid to solid ratio.
3.1.4 universal sorbent—an insoluble material or mixture of materials that will sorb both hydrophobic and hydrophilic liquid
spills.
3.2 Definitions:
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F20 on Hazardous Substances and Oil Spill Response and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee
F20.22 on Mitigation Actions.
Current edition approved April 1, 2012Nov. 1, 2017. Published April 2012December 2017. Originally approved in 1981. Last previous edition approved in 20062012 as
F726 – 06.F726 – 12. DOI: 10.1520/F0726-12.10.1520/F0726-17.
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.
Available from Standardization Documents Order Desk, Bldg. 4 Section D, DLA Document Services, Building 4/D, 700 Robbins Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094,
Attn: NPODS.http://quicksearch.dla.mil.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F726 − 17
3.2.1 absorbent—a material that picks up and retains a liquid distributed throughout its molecular structure causing the solid
to swell (50 % or more). The absorbent is at least 70 % insoluble in excess fluid.
3.2.2 adsorbent—an insoluble material that is coated by a liquid on its surface including pores and capillaries without the solid
swelling more than 50 % in excess liquid.
3.2.3 adsorbent cubage factor “C”—this is the ratio of sorbent volume used to the liquid volume sorbed.
3.2.4 cubage—defines cubic content, volume, or displacement.
3.3 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.3.1 This test method does not apply to belt, rope, or weir type skimming devices.
3.3.2 oil—a substantially water immiscible organic liquid that will float on water (density less than 1 g/cm ), typically with
−3
surface tension less than 40 × 10 N/m.
3.3.3 Type I adsorbent (roll, film, sheet, pad, blanket, web)—a material with length and width much greater than thickness and
which has both linear form and strength sufficient to be handled either saturated or unsaturated.
3.3.4 Type II adsorbent (loose)—an unconsolidated, particulate material without sufficient form and strength to be handled
except with scoops and similar equipment.
3.3.5 Type III adsorbent (enclosed):
3.3.5.1 IIIa, pillows—adsorbent material contained by an outer fabric or netting that has permeability to oil, but with openings
sufficiently small so as to substantially retain the sorbent material within the fabric or netting.
3.3.5.2 IIIb, adsorbent booms—adsorbent material contained by an outer fabric or netting that is permeable to oil but with
openings sufficiently small so as to substantially retain the sorbent material within the fabric or netting. The lengthwise dimension
substantially exceeds other dimensions and with strength members running parallel with length. Booms are also provided with
connections for coupling adsorbent booms together.
3.3.6 Type IV-agglomeration unit—an assemblage of strands, open netting, or other physical forms giving an open structure that
minimally impedes the intrusion into itself of high viscosity oils. Normally for use with viscous oils, typically above 10 000 cP
viscosity. Said oils are then held in this structure permitting the composite oil/structure to be handled (pompoms).
3.3.7 reuse—the art of extracting adsorbed liquids from an adsorbent through rolls or other compression techniques permitting
the adsorbent to be used once again; limitations on reuse may include the U.S. Clean Water Act or other legal restrictions.
4. Summary of Test Method
4.1 The adsorbent material is tested using established standard tests for factors relating to storage, while specially developed
tests are used for covering other performance factors. Oil and water adsorption strength, buoyancy, and reusability tests are
included among these latter tests.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 This test method is to be used as a basis for comparison of adsorbents in a consistent manner.
5.2 These tests are not appropriate for absorbent materials that are covered in Methods F716.
NOTE 1—Ensure that material compatibilities exist between the sorbent and the hazardous substance which may be sorbed.
6. Apparatus
6.1 Exterior Exposure Tester, sufficient to be used under Federal Test Standard 141a, Method 6152, or actual exposure as
detailed in 8.2.
6.2 Test Cells—The dimensions of the test cells shall be large enough to enable the adsorbent sample to float freely within the
test cell. For Type I and Type II sorbents, the recommended test cell is a borosilicate 19 cm (diameter) by 10 cm (depth)
crystallizing dish with a watch glass or glass plate cover. For larger samples, a 53 by 56 cm plastic sink (laundry tub or equivalent)
to accommodate the sample is recommended.
6.3 Mesh Baskets—The basket shall be of a sufficient size and strength to accommodate the sample size and weight (150 cm ,
4 to 10 g minimum) when saturated. The basket must not be so tall as to interfere with a protective lid for the test cell.
NOTE 2—The mesh should retain the sorbent, yet allow free oil to drain away from the sorbent.
6.4 Shaker Table, capable of a frequency of 150 cycles/min and an amplitude of 2.5 cm.
6.5 Top Loading Balance—for Type I and II adsorbent, fitted with a hook or other handing mechanism, 400+ g maximum
capacity with 0.1 g resolution, or equivalent.
6.6 Continuous Reading Hanging Scale, for Type III and IV adsorbent, fitted with a hook or other handing mechanism, 50+ kg
maximum capacity with 100 g resolution, or equivalent.
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7. Conditioning
7.1 Condition all adsorbent test specimens at 23 6 4°C and 70 6 20 % relative humidity for not less than 24 h prior to testing.
Condition specimens in a fully exposed state with no coverings or wrapping that would hinder the ambient equilibration process.
7.2 If temperature conditions other than normal room temperature are expected to be important, then conditioning and testing
should be carried out at temperatures of interest in addition to those specified in 7.1.
8. Tests for Storage Properties
8.1 Storage Density—The density of the sorbent sample is calculated by determining the weight of a known volume (standard
sorbent package as delivered to the consumer) of the sorbent. If standard storage packages are not available, then the mass of at
least 1 L of sorbent is determined to calculate the storage density.
8.2 Mildew—The susceptibility of an adsorbent to mildew under normal storage is defined under MIL-1-631D, Section 3.5.7.
The objective of this test is to determine expected shelf life under conditions which could lead to mildew.
8.3 Flammability—The procedure for this test is described in Test Method D2859, the Methenamine Pill Test. This test relates
to ignition from a spark, cigarette, or other point source such as might be encountered in normal shipping and storage. It should
not be inferred that an adsorbent that passes this test will fail to burn if ignited in another manner such as full building involvement,
bonfire, and so forth, and it should likewise be understood that the test is limited to and pertains to only unsaturated adsorbent
samples as normally supplied by the manufacturer.
8.3.1 This test method should be used to measure and describe the properties of materials, products, or assemblies in response
to heat and flame under controlled laboratory conditions and should not be used to describe or appraise the fire hazard or fire
risk of materials, products, assemblies under actual fire conditions. However, results of this test may be used as elements of a fire
risk assessment which takes into account all of the factors which are pertinent to an assessment of the fire hazard of a particular
end use.
8.3.2 Test Type I adsorbents as a single sheet or pad as supplied by the vendor.
8.3.3 Uniformly arrange Type II adsorbents in a layer of sufficient size to fit the test apparatus. The thickness should be 1.5 mm
uncompressed and arranged such that the bulk density is equal to that found in the packaged product as supplied by the
manufacturer.
8.3.4 Any type adsorbent can be tested in the package in which it is supplied by placing the standard Methenamine test mask
on a flat portion of the package surface, and placing the pill in the center of the mask on the package and igniting it. Results would
be interpreted as in the normal test.
9. Tests for Performance Properties
9.1 These tests involve the use of oils with a range of viscosities and densities as indicated below.
Oil Type Viscosity Range Density Range Example
Light 1 to 10 cP 0.820 to 0.870 g/cm Diesel fuel,
mineral oil
Medium 200 to 400 cP 0.860 to 0.970 g/cm Crude oil, canola oil,
mineral oil
Heavy 1500 to 2500 cP 0.930 to 1.000 g/cm Bunker C or residual
fuel, mineral oil
Weathered 8000 to 10 000 cP 0.930 to 1.000 g/cm Emulsified crude oil,
mineral oil
9.2 Dynamic Degradation Test—This procedure is designed to test for water take-up and to determine oleophilic properties of
an adsorbent sample under dynamic conditions. This test is performed at 23 6 4°C.
9.2.1 Type I Adsorbent—Sample pieces of the adsorbent (four pieces cut with a sharp edge (to minimize compaction) into
squares of approximately 6 by 6 cm) are first weighed then placed in a 4 L jar that is half-filled with water and sealed. The container
is then placed on its side and mounted on a shaker table, or similar device, set at a frequency of 150 cycles per minute and an
amplitude of 2.5 cm for a duration of 15 min. The contents of the jar are allowed to settle for a period of 2 min. Observations
pertaining to the condition of the adsorbent and the condition of the water are recorded. Any adsorbent pieces that do not remain
floating at the surface of the water are considered to have failed this test. The contents of the jar are strained through a mesh basket
to catch the adsorbent samples, which are then weighed after a 30 s drain period. The water pick-up ratio is calculated from the
weight measurements (see 9.5).
9.2.1.1 The jar is half-filled with fresh water and 3 mL of oil (medium crude, 300 cP oil, or equivalent) is added. The adsorbent
sample is returned to the jar, which is then sealed. The jar is placed on its side and mounted on a shaker table, or similar device,
set at a frequency of 150 cycles per minute and an amplitude of 2.5 cm for a duration of 15 min. The contents of the jar are allowed
to settle for a period of 2 min, at which time observations are noted. Observations include but are not limited to: quantity of
adsorbent submerged, physical appearance of adsorbent and water, and the persistence and color of residual test liquid sheen.
9.2.2 Type II Adsorbent—An adsorbent sample (approximately 4 to 10 g or a maximum of 150 cm ) is first weighed then placed
in a 4L jar that is half-filled with water and sealed. The container is then placed on its side and mounted on a shaker table, or similar
device, set at a frequency of 150 cycles per minute and an amplitude of 2.5 cm for a duration of 15 min. The contents of the jar
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are allowed to settle for a period of 2 min. Observations pertaining to the condition of the adsorbent and the condition of the water
are recorded. If 10 % or more of the adsorbent material has sunk, then the adsorbent is considered to have failed this test. The
contents of the jar are strained through a mesh basket to catch the adsorbent samples, which are then weighed after a 30 s drain
period. The water pick-up ratio is calculated from the weight measurements (see 9.5).
9.2.2.1 The jar is half-filled with fresh water and 3 mL of oil (medium crude, 300 cP oil, or equivalent) is added. The adsorbent
sample is returned to the jar, which is then sealed. The jar is placed on its side and mounted on a shaker table, or similar device,
set at a frequency of 150 cycles per minute and an amplitude of 2.5 cm for a duration of 15 min. The contents of the jar are allowed
to settle for a period of 2 min, at which time observations are noted. Observations include but are not limited to: quantity of
adsorbent submerged, physical appearance of adsorbent and water, and the persistence and color of residual test liquid sheen.
9.2.3 Types IIIa, IIIb, IV Adsorbents—Both the outer fabric or netting and the filler material are tested independently for Type
III adsorbents. Samples are prepared according to the protocol listed in 9.2.1 for the outer fabric or netting of Type III adsorbents
and Type IV adsorbents, and the protocol listed in 9.2.2 is used for any particulate filler material used in Type III adsorbents. If
the adsorbent material fails to remain floating as described in 9.2.1 or 9.2.2, then the adsorbent is deemed to have failed the
dynamic degradation test.
9.3 Oil Adsorption-Short Test—This test gives idealized laboratory data that can be used to compare one adsorbent’s oil capacity
with another and likewise give relative cost effectiveness. It should be recognized that under normal use conditions, an adsorbent
will not be exposed to sufficient oil layer thickness to become completely or rapidly saturated. This test will, therefore, give
maximum possible capacity data and idealized time to saturation. The objective of this test is to determine optimum adsorbent
without the competing presence of water. As such, this data relates only to oil layer thicknesses that approximate or exceed that
of the adsorbent. All adsorption test procedures to be run with adsorbent samples conditioned as in Section 7 and using specified
oils at 23 6 4°C.
9.3.1 Type I Adsorbent—The test liquid layer should be of a minimum thickness of 2.5 cm if the thickness of the adsorbent is
under 2.5 cm. If the adsorbent is thicker than 2.5 cm, then a liquid layer at least as thick as the adsorbent sample should be used.
9.3.1.1 The adsorbent sample to be tested shall be a minimum weight of 4 g. Cut the sample with a sharp edge (to minimize
compaction)
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