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D3547-05 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
📋 Scope and Key Properties
This specification, ASTM D3547-05, covers the requirements for n-butyl acrylate (99% grade) for use in paint, varnish, lacquer, and related products. The standard establishes strict purity and quality benchmarks to ensure consistency in industrial applications. All values stated in SI units are regarded as the standard standard for determining conformance.
| 🟦 Property | 📏 Specification Limit | 🎯 Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Purity (wt% as n-butyl acrylate), min | 99.0 | D3362 |
| Water content (wt%), max | 0.10 | D1364 |
| Color (Pt-Co scale), max | 20 | D1209 / D5386 |
| Acidity (free acid as acrylic acid, wt%), max | 0.01 | D1613 |
| Methyl ether of hydroquinone (MEHQ) | As agreed upon | D3125 |
🧪 Test Methods and Quality Control
Conformance to D3547-05 is determined using standard ASTM test methods. Purity is rigorously evaluated using Gas Chromatography per Test Method D3362. Water content is measured using the Karl Fischer Reagent Titration Method (D1364). Color is determined visually using the Platinum-Cobalt Scale (D1209) or instrumentally via Tristimulus Colorimetry (D5386). Acidity is determined via Test Method D1613, while the inhibitor concentration (Methyl ether of hydroquinone) is measured by D3125. Sampling of the chemical must be conducted in accordance with Practice E300.
💡 Rounding Requirement (E29): For purposes of determining conformance with this standard, observed or calculated values shall be rounded off “to the nearest unit” in the last right-hand digit used in expressing the specification limit, in accordance with the rounding-off method of Practice E29.
🛡️ Safety, Handling, and Sampling Guidelines
Specific hazard information dictates that samples must be carefully handled to prevent uncontrolled polymerization. Butyl acrylate can polymerize violently, evolving considerable heat. The standard mandates storing samples in amber bottles or protecting them from light by other means to aid in preventing polymerization. Keep samples away from heat sources and chemicals that can cause free radical polymerization. Always consult the supplier’s Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for comprehensive hazard information and guidance prior to use.
⚠️ Polymerization Hazard: Butyl acrylate samples must be kept away from heat sources, light, and free radical initiators. Polymerization can be violent and highly exothermic. Refer to the supplier’s MSDS and the Hazard Section 4 of the standard for complete safety guidelines.
The user of this standard is responsible for establishing appropriate safety and health practices and determining the applicability of regulatory limitations.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What is the minimum purity requirement for n-butyl acrylate under ASTM D3547-05?
The standard requires a minimum purity of 99.0% by weight as n-butyl acrylate, determined by Test Method D3362.
💡 Why must n-butyl acrylate be stored in amber bottles?
Amber bottles protect the monomer from light, which helps prevent premature free radical polymerization. Exposure to light can initiate an exothermic polymerization reaction, which poses a significant safety hazard.
⚡ What are the maximum allowable limits for water and free acidity?
The maximum allowable water content is 0.10% by weight (Test Method D1364). The maximum free acidity (calculated as acrylic acid) is 0.01% by weight (Test Method D1613).
📌 How is the color of n-butyl acrylate specified in D3547-05?
The color must be a maximum of 20 on the Platinum-Cobalt (Pt-Co) scale, determined by Test Method D1209. Instrumental color determination by Test Method D5386 is also acceptable, as no significant statistical difference has been observed for this material.