ASTM D1996-97(2003)

1.1 This test method describes a liquid chromatograph procedure for the separation of some additives currently used in low density polyethylene. These additives are extracted with 2-propanol prior to liquid chromatographic separation. The ultraviolet absorbance (200 nm) of the compound(s) is measured; quantitation is performed using the internal standard method.

1.2 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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For a specific hazards statement, see Section 9.

Note 1—There is no similar or equivalent ISO standard.

Separation and identification of stabilizers used in the manufacture of low density polyethylene are necessary in order to correlate performance properties with polymer composition. This test method provides a means to determine the BHT, BHEB, Isonox-129, erucamide slip, Irganox-1010 and Irganox-1076 levels in low density polyethylene samples.

The additive extraction procedure is made effective by the insolubility of the polymer sample in solvents generally used for liquid chromatographic analysis.

Under optimum conditions, the lowest level of detection for a phenolic antioxidant is approximately 2 ppm.