Standardization News

A proposed ASTM International standard will provide test methods used to determine trace metal content in carbon black with ICP-OES (Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectroscopy) or ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma – Mass Spectrometry) after adequate digestion. ASTM’s committee on carbon black (D24) is developing the proposed standard (WK73324).

“ICP test methods are a commonly used and practical way to test trace metal contents in samples of various kinds of materials”, says ASTM member Dirk Roller, vice president of global quality and reference laboratories at Orion Engineered Carbons. “However, for carbon black, a standardized test method did not exist.” 

Roller notes that the concentration ranges covered by these methods are determined by the sensitivity of the instrument, the sample size taken for analysis, and the dilution volume. The pre-preparation for the ICP test (digestion) can occur by acid microwave digestion or by incineration of the sample.

The method was worked on by a task group that included both users and producers of carbon black. It will be published under the subcommittee on environment, health, and safety (D24.66), and will help support sustainability worldwide. 

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