5.1 Dirt, paper and mixtures of polymeric materials complicate the interpretation of data from procedures used to identify the contaminants in recycled plastics.

1.1 This practice describes a procedure for separating recycled plastics based on their color and a procedure for washing dirty, ground plastic, which results in separation of light materials (density <1.00 g/cm³). This practice is not intended to represent generic washing procedures used in the plastics recycling industry. The described procedures are solely for preparation of plastic samples for use in other analytical tests. The procedure includes a room temperature wash step to facilitate separation of paper (for example, labels) followed by washing at an elevated temperature.

Note 1: Although not presented as a quantitative method, the procedure presented in this practice may be used to provide quantitative results. The user assumes the responsibility to verify the reproducibility of quantitative results.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard.

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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

Note 2: There is no known ISO equivalent to this standard.

1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.