Overview
ASTM D209-81(2023), published by ASTM International, is the standard specification for lampblack pigment. Lampblack is a carbon-based pigment produced by burning oils or tars, available either as a dry powder or as a paste in oil. This standard offers detailed requirements for both forms, ensuring consistent quality and performance across applications. The specification establishes essential criteria for chemical composition, physical properties, sampling, and testing of lampblack pigment, which is widely used in coatings, paints, inks, and related industries.
Key Topics
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Forms of Lampblack Pigment
- Dry pigment: Produced by burning oils or tars; must be high grade, free from oils, and contain no extraneous substances.
- Paste in oil: Manufactured by grinding lampblack pigment with linseed oil, ensuring smooth consistency and ease of mixing.
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Chemical and Physical Requirements
- Dry pigment must meet limits for ash, acetone extract, moisture and volatile matter, and coarse particles.
- Paste in oil must adhere to proportions for pigment (min 25%), linseed oil (max 75%), moisture/volatile matter (max 0.7%), and coarse particle content.
- Both forms are tested for mass color, tint, and tinting strength.
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Sampling and Testing
- Sampling methodology ensures representative quality checks from each production batch or shipment.
- Prescribed test methods include:
- Coarse particle content (ASTM D185)
- Pigment composition (ASTM D1208)
- Color and tinting strength (ASTM D387)
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Compliance and International Standardization
- Developed following WTO TBT Committee principles for international standards, facilitating global trade and regulatory alignment.
- Approved for use by various agencies, including the U.S. Department of Defense.
Applications
- Paints and Coatings: Lampblack pigment is a key colorant in industrial and decorative paints, valued for its deep black color, stability, and dispersibility.
- Printing Inks: Utilized for its strong tinting strength and consistent color performance.
- Art Materials: Used historically and presently in artist paints and drawing media.
- Rubber and Plastics: Acts as a reinforcing and coloring agent in various polymer products.
- Research and Development: Supported by standardized specifications to ensure reproducibility in formulation and material testing.
The thorough requirements in ASTM D209-81(2023) support manufacturers, suppliers, and buyers in maintaining quality assurance and precise formulation, resulting in improved product performance across sectors.
Related Standards
- ASTM D185 - Test Methods for Coarse Particles in Pigments
- ASTM D387 - Test Method for Color and Strength of Chromatic Pigments with a Mechanical Muller
- ASTM D1208 - Test Methods for Common Properties of Certain Pigments
Other related ASTM standards address testing methods and material properties for pigments and coatings, ensuring comprehensive quality control throughout the supply chain.
Keywords: lampblack pigment, ASTM D209, carbon pigment, pigment specification, industrial pigments, paints and coatings, quality control, pigment in oil, international standards.