5.1 This test method is intended for use in quality control, material screening, and related problem solving where a compositional analysis is desired or a comparison can be made with a known material of the same type.

5.2 The parameters described should be considered as guidelines. They may be altered to suit a particular analysis, provided the changes are noted in the report.

5.3 The proportion of the determined components in a given mixture or blend may indicate specific quality or end use performance characteristics. Particular examples include the following:

5.3.1 Increasing soot (carbon) content of used diesel lubricating oils indicates decreasing effectiveness.

5.3.2 Specific carbon-to-polymer ratio ranges are required in some elastomeric and plastic parts in order to achieve desired mechanical strength and stability.

5.3.3 Some filled elastomeric and plastic products require specific inert content (for example, ash, filler, reinforcing agent, etc.) to meet performance specifications.

5.3.4 The volatile matter, fixed carbon, and ash content of coal and coke are important parameters. The “ranking” of coal increases with increasing carbon content and decreasing volatile and hydrocarbon, (medium volatility) content.

1.1 This test method provides a general technique incorporating thermogravimetry to determine the amount of highly volatile matter, medium volatile matter, combustible material, and ash content of compounds. This test method will be useful in performing a compositional analysis in cases where agreed upon by interested parties.

1.2 This test method is applicable to solids and liquids.

1.3 The temperature range of test is typically room temperature to 1000 °C. Composition between 1 weight % and 100 weight % of individual components may be determined.

1.4 This test method utilizes an inert and reactive gas environment.

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

1.6 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.

1.7 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.