This test method is intended to determine the volume distribution of pores in catalysts and catalyst carriers with respect to the apparent diameter of the entrances to the pores. In general, both the size and volume of pores in a catalyst affect its performance. Thus, the pore volume distribution is useful in understanding a catalyst's performance and in specifying a catalyst that can be expected to perform in a desired manner.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the pore volume distributions of catalysts and catalyst carriers by the method of mercury intrusion porosimetry. The range of apparent diameters of pores for which it is applicable is fixed by the operant pressure range of the testing instrument. This range is typically between apparent pore entrance diameters of about 100 and 0.003 μm (3 nm).

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.3 WARNINGMercury has been designated by many regulatory agencies as a hazardous material that can cause central nervous system, kidney and liver damage. Mercury, or its vapor, may be hazardous to health and corrosive to materials. Caution should be taken when handling mercury and mercury containing products. See the applicable product Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for details and EPA’s websitehttp://www.epa.gov/mercury/faq.htmfor additional information. Users should be aware that selling mercury and/or mercury containing products into your state or country may be prohibited by law.

1.4 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. Specific hazard information is given in Section 8.