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D4081-16 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
ASTM D4081 – 16 (Reapproved 2023) defines the specification for drycleaning-grade perchloroethylene (tetrachloroethylene), a solvent widely utilized in the commercial drycleaning industry. Under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D26 on Halogenated Organic Solvents, this standard establishes the required physical, chemical, and purity criteria to ensure optimal performance and safety in drycleaning applications. The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard.
📜 Material Specifications and Key Properties
Drycleaning-grade perchloroethylene must conform to strict limits on contaminants and physical characteristics. The primary differentiator between drycleaning grade and vapor-degreasing grade perchloroethylene is its acid acceptance level, capped at a maximum of 0.03 weight percent as NaOH. The following table summarizes the core property requirements:
| 🟦 Property | 📐 Specification Requirement | 🎯 Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Clear, free of suspended matter | D3741 |
| Total Acid Acceptance (as NaOH) | 0.03 weight % max | D2942 |
| Nonvolatile Matter | 20 mg/L max | D2109 |
| Water Content | 60 ppm max | D3401 |
| Specific Gravity (25/25 °C) | 1.615 – 1.625 | D2111 |
⚙️ Performance Verification and Differentiating Factors
Verification of compliance with D4081 requires a battery of standardized tests. The specific gravity, determined via D2111, must remain within a tightly controlled range to ensure consistent solvent density. The water content, measured by D3401, is held to a stringent maximum to prevent spotting and corrosion during the cleaning process. The nonvolatile matter limit specified in D2109 guarantees the solvent leaves no residues on garments.
A critical distinction must be made between drycleaning-grade and vapor-degreasing-grade perchloroethylene. The vapor-degreasing grade does not require the same low acid acceptance limit set in Section 3.2. Therefore, substituting grades without reviewing the 0.03% NaOH acid acceptance specification (per Test Method D2942) can lead to significant operational inefficiencies.
💡 Technical Tip: While Guide D3844 for labeling has been withdrawn, the specific labeling requirements remain legally enforceable under OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200). Always verify container markings comply with current federal, state, and local regulations.
🚛 Regulatory Compliance and Packaging Standards
All industrial quantities of drycleaning-grade perchloroethylene must be packaged and labeled in full compliance with U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, specifically 49 CFR 100 to 199, as well as OSHA regulations under 29 CFR 1910.1200. The correct proper shipping name for this material is UN 1897, Tetrachloroethylene. Consignors must also ensure adherence to any applicable state and local environmental and transportation requirements.
⚠️ Regulatory Note: The standard explicitly states in Section 1.3 that it does not address all safety concerns. 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.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What is the primary chemical difference between drycleaning-grade and vapor-degreasing-grade perchloroethylene?
Drycleaning grade is distinguished by its lower total acid acceptance, which must not exceed 0.03 weight % as NaOH when tested according to ASTM D2942. Vapor-degreasing grade does not mandate this low of a specification.
💡 What is the proper shipping name and UN designation for perchloroethylene?
Per the standard and DOT regulations, the proper shipping name is Tetrachloroethylene, assigned to UN 1897.
⚡ Which ASTM method is used to determine water content in this specification?
The water content is determined using Test Methods D3401 (Test Methods for Water in Halogenated Organic Solvents and Their Admixtures). The maximum allowable concentration is 60 ppm.
📌 What is the international standing of this ASTM standard?
This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.