5.1 Petrolatum is a purified mixture of semi-solid hydrocarbons obtained from petroleum and is often described as an unctuous mass. Cone penetration is a means of measuring the firmness or consistency of petrolatum. Such measurements are useful for selecting or specifying, or both, a petrolatum of a particular consistency or firmness. Cone penetration values may or may not correlate with end-use functional properties.

1.1 This test method covers measuring with a penetrometer the penetration of petrolatum as an empirical measure of consistency.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

1.3 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.