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D5395-03 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
📋 Scope and Application
ASTM D5395 – 03 (Reapproved 2023) defines the standard specification for reclaimed methylene chloride (dichloromethane, CAS #75-09-02). This specification is intended for noncritical industrial applications, such as paint stripping formulations, and serves as a critical benchmark for purchasers as well as organizations developing in-house solvent recovery programs. Developed in accordance with internationally recognized standardization principles set by the WTO TBT Committee, this standard promotes global consistency in reclaimed solvent quality.
⚠️ Important Use Restriction: This specification is explicitly intended for noncritical applications. Users must verify the suitability of the reclaimed grade for their specific process, as the standard does not cover purity required for critical cleaning, pharmaceutical, or medical device manufacturing without further validation.
📊 Required Properties and Test Methods
Reclaimed methylene chloride conforming to this standard must meet the property limits prescribed in Table 1 of the official standard document. The following overarching ASTM test methods are utilized to determine compliance with these specified limits:
| 🟦 Property | 🧪 ASTM Test Method |
|---|---|
| Color (Platinum-Cobalt Scale) | D2108 |
| Nonvolatile Matter | D2109 |
| Specific Gravity and Density | D2111 |
| Water-Soluble Halide Ion | D2988 |
| Acidity / Alkalinity | D2989 |
| Water Content | D3401 or E1064 |
| Appearance of Admixtures | D3741 |
| Purity and Composition (GC) | D6806 |
💡 Comprehensive Analytical Framework: The standard provides a robust model combining instrumental methods (gas chromatography via D6806, Karl Fischer titration via E1064) with classical wet chemical techniques (acidity via D2989, halides via D2988) to ensure the reclaimed solvent meets the intended quality criteria.
📦 Packaging and Compliance Requirements
Proper packaging, labeling, and transport are mandatory for compliance. The standard requires strict conformance with federal hazard communication and transportation regulations:
| 📋 Compliance Aspect | 📜 Governing Regulation |
|---|---|
| Hazard Communication (Safety Data Sheets, Labeling) | 29 CFR 1910.1200 |
| Hazardous Materials Transportation | 49 CFR 100 to 199 |
In addition to these federal DOT and OSHA requirements, all applicable state and local regulations governing the packaging and marking of hazardous industrial solvents must be strictly observed.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What is the CAS number for methylene chloride listed in the standard?
The standard cites the Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) registry number for methylene chloride (dichloromethane) as 75-09-02.
💡 What is an example of a noncritical application covered by this specification?
Section 1.1 explicitly lists paint stripping formulations as a typical noncritical application for this reclaimed grade of methylene chloride.
📌 Which test method is used to determine acidity in reclaimed methylene chloride?
ASTM D2989 (“Test Method for Acidity-Alkalinity of Halogenated Organic Solvents and Their Admixtures”) is the specific standard referenced for determining acidity levels.
⚡ Can this standard be used to qualify an in-house solvent recovery program?
Yes. The scope of the standard (Section 1.1) explicitly states it may be used as a reference document by persons establishing in-house methylene chloride recovery programs.