ASTM D792-20 PDF
Name in English:
St ASTM D792-20
Name in Russian:
Ст ASTM D792-20
Original standard ASTM D792-20 in PDF full version. Additional info + preview on request
Full title and description
Standard Test Methods for Density and Specific Gravity (Relative Density) of Plastics by Displacement — ASTM D792-20 provides procedures for determining the specific gravity (relative density) and density of solid plastics (sheets, rods, tubes, molded items, and similar forms) by displacement methods (Test Methods A and B).
Abstract
ASTM D792-20 (2020 edition) describes two displacement-based test methods to measure density and specific gravity of solid plastics. Test Method A covers testing in water; Test Method B covers testing in liquids other than water. The standard specifies specimen preparation, weighing procedures in air and while immersed, required apparatus (analytical balance, sinkers/pycnometers), calculation formulas (including expression of specific gravity at 23/23°C and conversion to density at 23°C), and safety notes (including a warning about mercury).
General information
- Status: Current / Active standard
- Publication date: July 1, 2020 (designation D792‑20)
- Publisher: ASTM International
- ICS / categories: Plastics in general — ICS 83.080.01
- Edition / version: 2020 edition (D792‑20)
- Number of pages: 6
Scope
These test methods describe determination of the specific gravity (relative density) and density of solid plastics by displacement. Test Method A is intended for specimens tested in water (typically 1 to 50 g specimens using a sinker for materials lighter than water). Test Method B is intended for testing in liquids other than water. The standard states that values are to be reported in SI units and gives the reference conditions and definitions used (specific gravity 23/23°C and density at 23°C). It also notes alternative methods (for example Test Method D1505 or ISO 1183 variants) and includes safety guidance regarding hazardous immersion liquids such as mercury.
Key topics and requirements
- Two displacement procedures: Test Method A (water) and Test Method B (other liquids).
- Definition and expression of specific gravity as sp gr 23/23°C and conversion to density D23 (kg/m3).
- Required apparatus: analytical balance (precision often 0.1 mg for low-density/small samples), sinkers or pycnometers, constant-temperature baths/thermometers as needed.
- Standard laboratory atmosphere / test conditions recommended (nominally 23 ±2°C and 50 ±10% RH unless otherwise specified).
- Specimen size guidance (procedures reference specimen masses typically in the 1–50 g range for Test Method A) and handling to avoid buoyancy/air-bubble errors.
- Safety warnings about hazardous immersion liquids (mercury) and responsibility to follow SDS and local regulations.
Typical use and users
Used by materials and quality laboratories, polymer R&D, production QC, materials suppliers, and test houses to identify materials, check batch-to-batch uniformity, calculate strength-to-weight and cost-to-weight ratios, and to provide a basic physical property for specification and comparison. It is commonly cited in material data sheets and downstream standards that reference density or specific gravity requirements.
Related standards
ASTM D792-20 supersedes ASTM D792-13. Related and cross‑referenced documents include Test Method D1505 (alternative density test for many forms, films and sheeting), ISO 1183 (density of plastics — different methods/variants), and various ASTM practices/guides for reporting and interlaboratory precision (e.g., D6436, E691). Users should consult those standards when harmonization or alternate procedures are required.
Keywords
density; specific gravity; relative density; plastics; displacement method; Test Method A; Test Method B; pycnometer; buoyancy; D792‑20.
FAQ
Q: What is this standard?
A: ASTM D792‑20 is the 2020 edition of the test methods that define how to determine density and specific gravity (relative density) of solid plastics using displacement techniques (weighing in air and while immersed).
Q: What does it cover?
A: It covers two displacement-based test methods (A and B) for solids: Method A for testing in water and Method B for testing in other immersion liquids; it specifies apparatus, specimen handling, calculations (including reporting at 23/23°C), and safety cautions.
Q: Who typically uses it?
A: Polymer test laboratories, quality control technicians, materials scientists, product designers, third‑party test houses, and manufacturers who need an authoritative procedure to measure and report density or specific gravity of solid plastic parts and specimens.
Q: Is it current or superseded?
A: D792‑20 is the current (active) edition published in 2020 and it supersedes the prior D792‑13 edition. Users should verify any newer revisions or reapprovals if long after 2020.
Q: Is it part of a series?
A: D792 is part of the suite of ASTM test methods and guides for plastics (Committee D20). It is commonly used alongside related density, dimensional, and reporting standards (for example D1505, D570 for water absorption, and guides such as D6436).
Q: What are the key keywords?
A: Density; specific gravity; relative density; displacement; plastics; pycnometer; Test Method A; Test Method B; D792‑20.