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D4701-00 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
⚗️ Product Scope and Chemical Properties
ASTM D4701-00 (Reapproved 2020) provides the standard specification for technical grade methylene chloride (dichloromethane). Under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D26 on Halogenated Organic Solvents, this specification is intended for industrial and commercial applications including cold cleaning processes. Per Section 3, the solvent must conform strictly to the chemical requirements prescribed in Table 1 of the standard, which covers quality indicators essential for consistent solvent performance.
⚠️ Safety and Handling Note: According to Section 1.3, this standard does not address all safety concerns. Users must establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices. Additional critical handling guidance is available in Guide D3844, Practice D4276, and ASTM STP 403A.
🔬 Referenced Test Methods and Sampling
The standard mandates that all testing must be performed using approved ASTM methodologies to ensure reliability and reproducibility. Sampling shall be conducted in accordance with Practice E300 for simple liquids. The following table summarizes the key test methods referenced in Section 2.1 used to qualify technical grade methylene chloride.
| 🟦 Test Method | 🎯 Property Assessed | ⚡ Key Principle |
|---|---|---|
| D2108 | Color | Platinum-Cobalt Scale |
| D2109 | Nonvolatile Matter | Residue on evaporation |
| D2111 | Specific Gravity / Density | Hydrometer or pycnometer |
| D2989 | Acidity-Alkalinity | Acid-base titration |
| D3401 | Water Content | Karl Fischer / distillation |
| D3741 | Appearance of Admixtures | Visual clarity assessment |
| D4755 | Free Halogens | Colorimetric/potentiometric |
📦 Packaging, Marking, and Regulatory Compliance
Section 5 of the standard provides strict guidelines for the distribution of technical grade methylene chloride. Industrial and commercial quantities must be packaged and labeled in full compliance with applicable regulations.
- U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT): Must comply with 49 CFR Sections 100 to 199 for hazardous materials transportation.
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA): Must comply with the Hazard Communication standard (29 CFR Section 1910.1200).
- State and Local Regulations: Applicable state and local requirements must also be met.
💡 Standardization Context: ASTM D4701-00 was developed in accordance with international standardization principles set by the WTO TBT Committee. All values in the standard are regarded in SI units.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What is the scope of ASTM D4701?
This specification covers the requirements for technical grade methylene chloride (dichloromethane) used primarily in industrial solvent applications. It does not cover higher purity or pharmaceutical grades.
💡 What test method is used to determine water content?
The standard references Test Method D3401, which covers the determination of water in halogenated organic solvents and their admixtures using Karl Fischer titration or distillation procedures.
⚡ What packaging regulations apply to this product?
Per Section 5, packaging must adhere to DOT Hazardous Materials Regulations (49 CFR 100–199) and OSHA Hazard Communication Standards (29 CFR 1910.1200).
📌 What is the current status of this standard?
The current active version is D4701-00 (Reapproved 2020). It was originally approved in 1987 and is under the jurisdiction of Subcommittee D26.03 on Cold Cleaning.