4.1 The purpose of this test method is to determine the amount of gangue, refractory, inert, etc., materials, that may adversely affect compacting tools and sintered properties of components formed from copper and iron powders.

4.2 The insoluble matter consists of those nonmetallic substances that do not dissolve in the mineral acid used to dissolve the metal. In copper powder, which is treated with nitric acid, the acid-insoluble matter includes silica, insoluble silicates, alumina, clays, and other refractory materials that may be introduced either as impurities in the raw material or from the furnace lining, fuel, etc.; lead sulfate may also be present. In iron powder, which is treated with hydrochloric acid, the insoluble matter may include carbides in addition to the substances listed above. The test method excludes insoluble material that is volatile at the ignition temperature specified.

1.1 This test method2 covers the determination of the mineral-acid-insoluble matter content of copper and iron powders in amounts under 1.0 %.

1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, 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.