Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
D4077-23 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
ASTM D4077-23 defines the comprehensive specification for cumene (isopropylbenzene), a critical chemical intermediate primarily used in the production of phenol and acetone. This standard establishes precise purity requirements and impurity limits under the jurisdiction of Committee D16 on Aromatic, Industrial, Specialty and Related Chemicals.
📊 Key Specification Requirements
To conform to D4077-23, cumene must meet strict compositional limits. The table below outlines the mandatory specifications and their corresponding ASTM test methods.
| 🟦 Property | 📏 Specification | ⚡ ASTM Method |
|---|---|---|
| Purity, mass %, min | 99.92 | D7057 |
| α-Methylstyrene, mass %, max | 0.01 | D7057 |
| Benzene, mass %, max | 0.001 | D7057 |
| Butylbenzenes, mass %, max | 0.02 | D7057 |
| Diisopropylbenzenes, mass %, max | 0.002 | D7057 |
| Ethylbenzene, mass %, max | 0.01 | D7057 |
| Phenols, mg/kg, max | 5 | D3160 or D7057 |
| n-Propylbenzene, mass %, max | 0.03 | D7057 |
| Sulfur, mg/kg, max | 1 | D7183 or D7359 |
| Bromine Index, max | 100 | D1492 or D5776 |
| Appearance (No haze, particulates) | Pass | E2680 |
⚠️ Rounding for Compliance: Per Section 1.2, all observed or calculated values must be rounded to the nearest unit in the last right-hand digit of the specification limit according to Practice E29.
🔬 Analytical Test Methods and Handling
The standard mandates specific ASTM methodologies for evaluating each property. Purity and organic impurities are quantified using gas chromatography (Test Method D7057). Trace sulfur content is determined via ultraviolet fluorescence (D7183) or combustion ion chromatography (D7359). The bromine index, which indicates unsaturated impurities, can be measured using either coulometric (D1492) or electrometric (D5776) titration.
Furthermore, the physical quality of the product is critical. It must appear clear and free of visible haze, particulates, or suspended matter, evaluated using the visual inspection procedure in Test Method E2680.
💡 Safety and Handling Note: Section 1.4 emphasizes strict compliance with OSHA regulations (29 CFR 1910.1000 and 1910.1200) and local guidelines for all materials. Sampling should follow Practice D3437 to ensure accurate and representative test results.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What is the minimum purity specification for Cumene under D4077-23?
The standard requires a minimum cumene purity of 99.92 mass %.
💡 Which ASTM test methods are specified for determining Sulfur content?
Two methods are permitted: D7183 (Ultraviolet Fluorescence) and D7359 (Combustion Ion Chromatography). The maximum allowable sulfur content is 1 mg/kg.
⚡ What is the significance of the Bromine Index requirement?
The Bromine Index (max 100) measures the level of unsaturates or easily brominated impurities. Acceptable methods include D1492 (Coulometric Titration) or D5776 (Electrometric Titration).
📌 Why is the Phenol content limited to 5 mg/kg?
Phenol is a critical impurity that can interfere with downstream chemical processes, such as the production of phenol and acetone. Maintaining it below 5 mg/kg ensures the cumene meets the purity standards required for these sensitive applications.