This test method describes a procedure for measuring the pore size characteristics of membrane filters in the range of approximately 0.05 to 300 μm.

Formerly under the jurisdiction of Committee E48 on Biotechnology, this test method was withdrawn in September 2008 in accordance with section 10.5.3.1 of the Regulations Governing ASTM Technical Committees, which requires that standards shall be updated by the end of the eighth year since the last approval date.

This test method may be used to determine the maximum pore size, minimum pore size, and mean flow pore size.

The pore size distributions by flow, number, and volume can be deduced from pressure versus flow data.

1.1 This test method describes a procedure for measuring the pore size characteristics of membrane filters in the range of approximately 0.05 to 300 [mu]m.

1.2 This test method uses the automated bubble point method described in ASTM Test Method F316.

1.3 The liquid displacement technique used in this test method depends upon the capillary rise created by surface tension and uses the Washburn equation for calculating the pore diameter.

1.4 This standard may involve hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems 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.