ASTM D707-15(2023) PDF

Overview

ASTM D707-15(2023) is the international standard developed by ASTM International for the classification and specification of cellulose acetate butyrate (CAB) molding and extrusion compounds. This standard covers the essential requirements for plasticized CAB thermoplastic materials used in injection molding and extrusion processes. These compounds are characterized by a butyryl content below 38% and an acetyl content below 15%. The standard facilitates the identification, call-out, and quality assurance of CAB compounds used in manufacturing, ensuring consistency in performance across applications.

CAB materials are valued for their recyclability and thermoplastic nature, making them suitable for various industrial applications. The standard defines property requirements such as specific gravity, tensile strength, flexural modulus, impact strength, water absorption, and thermal stability, which CAB materials must meet to be classified under ASTM D707.

Key Topics

• Classification System: Defines groups based on impact or tensile strength, classes by plasticizer content, and grades for application (injection molding or extrusion).
• Specification Requirements: Outlines key physical and chemical properties including:
  • Specific gravity
  • Tensile stress at yield
  • Flexural modulus
  • Izod impact strength
  • Water absorption
  • Weight loss on heating
  • Color/opacity and plasticizer content
• Test Methods: References relevant ASTM test methods for verifying compliance:
  • D638 (Tensile properties)
  • D790 (Flexural properties)
  • D256 (Izod impact resistance)
  • D792 (Density/specific gravity)
  • D570 (Water absorption)
  • D149 and D257 (Electrical properties, if required)
• Reprocessability and Recycling: Emphasis on use of recycled CAB materials provided they comply with all specification requirements.
• Sampling and Certification: Guidance on lot acceptance, inspection, and reporting procedures to ensure product traceability and quality.

Applications

CAB molding and extrusion compounds are widely used across industries for their balanced performance, optical clarity, and versatility. Typical applications include:

• Automotive Parts: Interior trim and instrument panels utilizing CAB’s impact and weathering resistance.
• Consumer Goods: Tool handles, spectacle frames, and housings for electronic devices, benefiting from CAB’s moldability and surface finish.
• Packaging and Films: Use in specialty packaging where clarity and chemical resistance are required.
• Building and Construction: Wall coverings, trims, and profiles, thanks to durability and customization options with pigments and dyes.
• Electrical Insulation: Certain grades offer suitable dielectric properties for non-conductive applications.

By adhering to ASTM D707-15(2023), manufacturers and end-users benefit from standardized material classification, reliable processing guidance, and enhanced reproducibility in finished products.

Related Standards

Manufacturers and users of CAB compounds may also reference the following related ASTM standards:

• ASTM D4000: Classification System for Specifying Plastic Materials
• ASTM D638: Test Method for Tensile Properties of Plastics
• ASTM D790: Test Methods for Flexural Properties of Unreinforced and Reinforced Plastics
• ASTM D256: Test Methods for Determining the Izod Pendulum Impact Resistance of Plastics
• ASTM D792: Test Methods for Density and Specific Gravity
• ASTM D570: Test Method for Water Absorption of Plastics
• ASTM D149: Test Method for Dielectric Breakdown Voltage and Dielectric Strength of Solid Electrical Insulating Materials
• ASTM D3892: Practice for Packaging/Packing of Plastics

Note: ASTM D707-15(2023) is specific to CAB molding and extrusion compounds and does not have an ISO equivalent.

Keywords: cellulose acetate butyrate, CAB, ASTM D707, molding compounds, extrusion compounds, thermoplastic, classification standard, recycled plastics, injection molding materials, plastic specification, physical property requirements, CAB applications