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D520-00 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
ASTM D520-00 (Reapproved 2019) specifies three types of zinc dust pigment for paints. The standard ensures that the pigment consists essentially of metallic zinc and meets defined composition and physical property requirements. It is governed by ASTM Committee D01 and Subcommittee D01.31 on Pigment Specifications and is approved for use by U.S. Department of Defense agencies.
📋 Standard Specification and Composition
The zinc dust pigment must comply with the composition requirements in Table 1 of the standard, which outlines permissible levels of metallic zinc and other components. Physical properties, if specified by the purchaser, must match a reference sample agreed upon by the buyer and seller. The standard uses SI units as the standard, with inch-pound units in parentheses for information.
Key referenced standards for this specification include:
| 📐 Standard | 🟦 Purpose |
|---|---|
| B214 | Sieve Analysis of Metal Powders |
| D185 | Coarse Particles in Pigments |
| D521 | Chemical Analysis of Zinc Dust (Metallic Zinc Powder) |
| E40 | Chemical Analysis of Slab Zinc (Spelter) (Withdrawn 1993) |
🔬 Test Methods and Quality Control
Conformance is verified through specific ASTM test methods. The following tests are required:
| 🎯 Required Property | ⚡ Test Method | 📏 Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Total and Metallic Zinc | Chemical Analysis | D521 |
| Lead, Cadmium, Iron | Chemical Analysis | E40 (Sections 8, 18.2, 22) |
| Oily or Fatty Matter | Chemical Analysis | D521 |
| Coarse Particles | Sieve Analysis or Alternative | B214 or D185 |
⚠️ Important: E40 has been withdrawn. Users should seek alternative test methods for lead, cadmium, and iron as agreed upon between purchaser and seller.
Sampling is conducted per Section 4. Two random samples from different packages per lot are required, with a ratio of two samples per 5000 kg for larger shipments. Samples can be tested individually or combined into a composite sample for testing.
💡 Tip: For thorough evaluation, test both individual samples and composites to ensure lot homogeneity and compliance.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What is the scope of ASTM D520-00?
ASTM D520-00 covers three types of zinc dust pigment used in paints, focusing on composition and physical properties. It applies to pigments made primarily of metallic zinc.
💡 How is total and metallic zinc determined?
Total and metallic zinc content is determined using Test Methods D521, which provides chemical analysis procedures for zinc dust.
⚡ What are the sampling requirements?
Two samples must be taken from different packages per lot. For shipments over 5000 kg, two samples per 5000 kg are taken, with a minimum of two samples for smaller shipments.
📌 Which standards govern coarse particle testing?
Coarse particles are tested per Test Method B214 or Test Methods D185, as mutually agreed.