Standardization News

ASTM International’s plastics committee (D20) is developing a proposed standard that will help polyolefin manufacturers to measure material properties. Polyolefins are used in a variety of applications, including shrink wrap, shopping bags, food packaging, and dishwasher-safe containers, among others. 

According to ASTM International member Olaf Kohlmann, the proposed standard (WK81323) explains how time-domain nuclear magnetic resonance (TD-NMR) relaxometry technology can be used to test polyolefin properties. 

“Using TD-NMR versus primary laboratory extraction methods reduces the use of toxic solvents such as xylene, decalin, and heptane,” says Kohlmann. “TD-NMR measurements for the monitoring and controlling of the manufacturing process also leads to a reduction of waste material.”

All interested parties are invited to join in the development of the proposed standard. Kohlmann notes that the committee could eventually develop a practice and a test method related to the proposed guide. Polyolefin manufacturers and technology licensors are particularly encouraged to join the committee. 

ASTM welcomes participation in the development of its standards. JOIN ASTM.