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D2917-07 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
This specification covers the requirements for methyl isoamyl ketone (98 % grade) used primarily in paint, varnish, lacquer, and related coating products. Originally approved in 1970, the current edition (D2917 – 07 (Reapproved 2021)) provides standardized property limits and test methods to ensure product consistency. For the purposes of determining conformance with this standard, an observed or calculated value must be rounded “to the nearest unit” in the last right-hand digit of the specified limit, in accordance with the rounding-off method of Practice E29. The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard.
📊 Key Properties and Specifications
Methyl isoamyl ketone must conform to strict physical and chemical parameters defined in Section 3 of the standard. These properties are critical for its performance as a solvent in coatings formulations.
| 🟦 Property | 📏 Specification Limit | 🎯 Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Apparent Specific Gravity (20/20 °C) | 0.812 to 0.815 | D4052 |
| Apparent Specific Gravity (25/25 °C) | 0.809 to 0.812 | D4052 |
| Color (Pt-Co scale), max | 15 | D1209 / D5386 |
| Distillation: Initial Boiling Point, min | 140 °C | D1078 |
| Distillation: Dry Point, max | 148 °C | D1078 |
| Water content, wt %, max | 0.1 | D1364 |
| Acidity (as acetic acid), wt %, max | 0.02 | D1613 |
| Purity (Methyl Isoamyl Ketone), wt %, min | 98 | D3893 |
⚠️ Note on Color Testing: Instrumental Pt-Co color determined by Test Method D5386 has been shown to have no statistically significant difference from the visual Pt-Co color determined by Test Method D1209 in general interlaboratory studies. However, the standard cautions that it is not known whether methyl isoamyl ketone was part of the sample set included in that specific study.
🧪 Test Methods and Compliance
Conformance to the specification relies on a defined set of ASTM test methods. Purity is determined specifically via gas chromatography in accordance with Test Method D3893. Distillation characteristics (initial boiling point and dry point) are measured per D1078, while water content is evaluated using the Karl Fischer reagent titration method (D1364). Acidity is assessed as acetic acid equivalents per D1613. Apparent specific gravity is determined by a digital density meter per Test Method D4052.
Sampling of the material must be carried out following the procedures described in Practice E300. For proper packaging of the chemical, the standard references U.S. Federal Specification PPP-C-2020. For all specific safety, handling, and hazard information, the standard directs the user to consult the supplier’s Material Safety Data Sheet (SDS).
✅ Acceptance Criteria Note: When evaluating results, the standard permits specific gravity to be reported at either 20/20 °C (0.812 to 0.815) or 25/25 °C (0.809 to 0.812). Compliance records and certificates of analysis must clearly identify the test temperature basis used for the determination.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What is the minimum purity requirement for Methyl Isoamyl Ketone under D2917?
The standard requires the solvent material to have a minimum purity of 98 weight percent, determined specifically via gas chromatography in accordance with Test Method D3893.
💡 How is the color of Methyl Isoamyl Ketone specified and tested?
Color is specified as a maximum of 15 on the Platinum-Cobalt (Pt-Co) scale. It can be measured using the traditional visual method (Test Method D1209) or instrumental tristimulus colorimetry (Test Method D5386), though the specific interlaboratory correlation for this product is not explicitly confirmed in the standard.
⚡ What are the distillation range requirements for this solvent?
The distillation range, measured by Test Method D1078, requires an initial boiling point of a minimum of 140 °C and a dry point of a maximum of 148 °C, ensuring a tight and consistent volatility profile ideal for coatings applications.
📌 What are the limits for water content and acidity?
Water content must not exceed 0.1 weight percent, as determined by the Karl Fischer Reagent Titration Method (D1364). The acidity, expressed as acetic acid, must not exceed 0.02 weight percent (Test Method D1613).