ASTM D891

Full Name

ASTM D891 – Standard Test Methods for Specific Gravity, Apparent, of Liquid Industrial Chemicals

Scope

ASTM D891 provides two methods for determining the apparent specific gravity of liquid industrial chemicals. This standard is important for various reasons, including:

  • Material characterization: specific gravity is a fundamental property that helps identify and characterize industrial chemicals. It provides a measure of density relative to water, crucial for accurate material identification and handling.
  • Process control: monitoring specific gravity during production processes helps ensure consistent product quality and facilitates process optimization.
  • Safety and compliance: specific gravity data is often required for regulatory compliance and safety protocols related to transportation, storage, and handling of industrial chemicals.

Test methods:

  1. Method A – pycnometer method: this method uses a pycnometer, a specialized flask with a known volume, to accurately measure the mass and volume of the liquid sample.
  2. Method B – hydrometer method: this method uses a hydrometer, a graduated glass instrument that floats in the liquid and indicates specific gravity based on its buoyancy.

Factors affecting specific gravity:

  • Temperature: specific gravity is temperature-dependent. ASTM D891 provides procedures for correcting specific gravity measurements to a standard temperature.
  • Pressure: while pressure effects are typically negligible for liquids, it can be considered in high-pressure applications.
  • Dissolved solids: the presence of dissolved solids can influence the specific gravity of a liquid sample.

ASTM D891 Accredited Laboratory

Applied Testing & Geosciences, LLC is accredited for performing tests using the ASTM D891 standard.

Contact us today to learn more about our testing capabilities and how we can support your business.

Resources

Keywords

specific gravity; apparent; liquid; industrial chemicals; hydrometer; pycnometer; density; temperature; calibration; water; buoyancy; volume; mass; accuracy; precision

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