ASTM D2320-98(2022)e1
(Test Method)Standard Test Method for Density (Relative Density) of Solid Pitch (Pycnometer Method)
Standard Test Method for Density (Relative Density) of Solid Pitch (Pycnometer Method)
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Values of density and relative density are used for converting volumes to units of mass as required in other ASTM standards and in sales transactions.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the determination of density and relative density by pycnometer, and can be used for pitch that can be handled in fragments.
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.
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-Jun-2022
- Technical Committee
- D02 - Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants
- Drafting Committee
- D02.05 - Properties of Fuels, Petroleum Coke and Carbon Material
Relations
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2024
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2018
- Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2015
- Effective Date
- 01-Oct-2013
- Effective Date
- 01-Oct-2009
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2009
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2004
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2004
- Effective Date
- 10-May-2001
- Effective Date
- 10-May-2001
- Effective Date
- 10-Dec-1999
Overview
ASTM D2320-98(2022)e1 is the internationally recognized standard test method for determining the density and relative density (specific gravity) of solid pitch using the pycnometer method. Established by ASTM International, this standard provides a reliable laboratory procedure for quantifying the mass per unit volume of pitch materials that can be handled in fragments. Density and relative density values derived from this test are essential for converting volumes to mass - a critical factor in quality control, product specification, and commercial transactions involving solid pitch.
Key Topics
- Density and Relative Density: Defines and quantifies the mass per unit volume of solid pitch. Relative density is determined as the ratio of the mass of a specific volume of pitch at a reference temperature to the mass of an equal volume of water at the same temperature.
- Pycnometer Method: Utilizes a glass pycnometer, precision balances, and water displacement to determine the volume and mass of the test sample. The method is suitable for fragmental pitch but not for monolithic or powdery forms.
- Standard Conditions: All measurements are conducted using SI units, with temperature control set at 25°C for consistency and comparability.
- Sample Preparation: Emphasizes proper bulk sampling, crushing, sieving, drying, and handling to obtain representative test samples free of moisture and contaminants.
- Repeatability and Reproducibility: Specifies criteria to ensure consistent and accurate results within and across laboratories, emphasizing the importance of correct laboratory practices.
Applications
ASTM D2320-98(2022)e1 is widely used in the petroleum, chemical, and carbon materials industries for:
- Quality Control: Manufacturers and suppliers use this standard to ensure that solid pitch products meet required specifications for density, directly affecting material performance in end-use applications.
- Product Characterization: Laboratories employ this method to characterize pitch materials used in the production of electrodes, aluminum smelting, and other high-temperature industrial processes.
- Sales and Regulatory Compliance: Density and specific gravity data play a major role in inventory management, sales transactions, and adherence to industry regulations, as volume-to-mass conversion is key in contracts and reporting.
- Research and Development: Scientists and engineers utilize this method to study pitch properties, support product innovation, and improve processing techniques.
Related Standards
For comprehensive pitch testing and quality assurance, the following standards are often referenced alongside ASTM D2320:
- ASTM D4296 - Practice for Sampling Pitch: Details procedures for obtaining representative samples required before density testing.
- ASTM E11 - Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test Sieves: Specifies the sieves used in sample preparation.
- International Standards - Developed according to globally recognized principles, supporting regulatory alignment and international trade.
Summary
Using ASTM D2320-98(2022)e1 ensures consistent, accurate, and internationally accepted measurement of solid pitch density. Adherence to this test method supports quality assurance, regulatory compliance, and commercial reliability in industries reliant on precise material properties of pitch. For best results, this method should be used in conjunction with proper sample collection (ASTM D4296) and standardized equipment (ASTM E11), supporting the integrity of laboratory and commercial operations.
Keywords: density, relative density, solid pitch, pycnometer, ASTM D2320, quality control, petroleum products, mass measurement, laboratory test method.
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ASTM D2320-98(2022)e1 - Standard Test Method for Density (Relative Density) of Solid Pitch (Pycnometer Method)
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Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM D2320-98(2022)e1 is a standard published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Test Method for Density (Relative Density) of Solid Pitch (Pycnometer Method)". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 5.1 Values of density and relative density are used for converting volumes to units of mass as required in other ASTM standards and in sales transactions. SCOPE 1.1 This test method covers the determination of density and relative density by pycnometer, and can be used for pitch that can be handled in fragments. 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. 1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 5.1 Values of density and relative density are used for converting volumes to units of mass as required in other ASTM standards and in sales transactions. SCOPE 1.1 This test method covers the determination of density and relative density by pycnometer, and can be used for pitch that can be handled in fragments. 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. 1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
ASTM D2320-98(2022)e1 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 75.140 - Waxes, bituminous materials and other petroleum products. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ASTM D2320-98(2022)e1 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM D4296-24, ASTM D4296-18, ASTM D4296-83(2015)e1, ASTM E11-13, ASTM D4296-83(2009), ASTM E11-09e1, ASTM D4296-83(2004), ASTM E11-04, ASTM E11-95, ASTM E11-01, ASTM D4296-83(1999). Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ASTM D2320-98(2022)e1 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.
´1
Designation: D2320 − 98 (Reapproved 2022)
Standard Test Method for
Density (Relative Density) of Solid Pitch (Pycnometer
Method)
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D2320; 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.
ε NOTE—Editorially updated Section 15 in August 2022.
1. Scope 3.1.2 relative density, n—the ratio of the mass of a given
volume of the material at a standard test temperature to that of
1.1 Thistestmethodcoversthedeterminationofdensityand
an equal volume of water at the same temperature.
relative density by pycnometer, and can be used for pitch that
can be handled in fragments.
4. Summary of Test Method
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
4.1 The sample is weighed and its volume determined by
standard. No other units of measurement are included in this
the mass of water displaced.
standard.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the 5. Significance and Use
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
5.1 Values of density and relative density are used for
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
convertingvolumestounitsofmassasrequiredinotherASTM
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
standards and in sales transactions.
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.4 This international standard was developed in accor-
6. Apparatus
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
6.1 Glass Pycnometer, capacity about 25mL, with accu-
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
rately fitting glass stopper with a capillary tube 1.0mm to
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
2.0mm in diameter.
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
6.2 Water Bath, maintained at 25.0°C 6 0.1°C and pro-
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
vided with mechanical stirring.
2. Referenced Documents
6.3 Vacuum Pump or Aspirator, capable of producing a
vacuum of 2.7kPa (20torr).
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D4296Practice for Sampling Pitch
NOTE 1—20torr=20mm Hg=2.66kPa.
E11Specification forWovenWireTest Sieve Cloth andTest
6.4 Manometer, suitable for measuring the specified
Sieves
vacuum.
6.5 Vacuum Desiccator with Guard.
3. Terminology
6.6 Sieves, U.S. Standard 2.36mm (No. 8) and 600µm
3.1 Definitions:
(No.30) conforming to Specification E11.
3.1.1 density, n—the mass per unit of volume at a standard
test temperature.
7. Reagents and Materials
7.1 Wetting Agent, 0.1g⁄mLAerosol OT.
7.2 Wetting Agent, 0.1g⁄mL BRU 35 (Alyoxyethylene do-
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D02 on
Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants and is the direct responsibility of
decyl ether, detergent.
SubcommitteeD02.05onPropertiesofFuels,PetroleumCokeandCarbonMaterial.
Current edition approved July 1, 2022. Published August 2022. Originally
8. Bulk Sampling
approved in 1964. Last previous edition approved in 2017 as D2320–98 (2017).
DOI: 10.1520/D2320-98R22E01.
8.1 Samples from shipments shall be taken in accordance
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
with Practice D4296 and shall be free of foreign substances.
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
Thoroughly mix the sample immediately before removing a
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website. representativeportionforthedeterminationorfordehydration.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
´1
D2320 − 98 (2022)
9. Dehydration eter from the bath and dry with a clean, dry cloth or with soft,
absorbent paper. Weigh immediately to the nearest 0.5mg and
9.1 Allbulksamplessuspectedofhavingfreemoistureshall
record the mass.
be air-dried or oven-dried at 50°C in a forced-air oven before
analyzing.
13. Calculation
13.1 Calculate the relative density of the pitch as follows:
10. Preparation of Test Sample
spgr 5 ~W 2 W !/@~W 2 W ! 2 ~W 2 W !# (1)
3 1 2 1 4 3
10.1 Crush a 50g to 100g representative portion of the dry
pitch until all of it passes through the 2.36mm (No. 8) sieve.
5W/@W 2 ~W 2 W !#
4 2
Avoid grinding the pitch. Remove the fines by screening
where:
throughthe600µm(No.30)sieveandusethepitchretainedon
this sieve as the test sample. If desired, small lumps of pitch
W = mass of sample (W − W ),
3 1
may be used without crushing, provided the lumps pass the W = mass of pycnometer,
2.36mm sieve and are retained on the 600µm sieve. In either W = mass of pycnometer filled with water at 25°C,
W = mass of pycnometer with sample, and
case, follow the evacuation steps described in 12.2. In case of
W = mass of pycnometer with sample filled with water at
dispute use the crushing method. 4
25°C.
11. Calibration of Pyc
...




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