ASTM D570 Water Absorption of Plastics Test
ASTM D570 is a test method to calculate the relative Water Absorption of plastics in 24 Hours when immersed in water under equilibrium conditions. This test method for rate of water absorption has two main purposes: first, as a guide to the amount of water absorbed by a material. Second, as a control test on the uniformity of a product. Results help to evaluate the material performance in water or humid conditions come across during application.
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- Overview
- Scope, Applications, and Benefits
- Test Process
- Specifications
- Instrumentation
- Results and Deliverables
Overview
ASTM D570 describes the method for determining the water absorption of plastics when immersed under controlled conditions. This test quantifies the percentage increase in specimen weight due to moisture absorbed, which helps evaluate how water exposure affects a material’s mechanical, electrical, and dimensional properties.
The test method applies to molded, laminated, cast, and extruded plastic products for material selection and performance evaluation in applications involving exposure to water or humidity.
For reliable ASTM D570 water absorption testing and technically sound results you can trust, work with an experienced materials testing laboratory. Contact our team to discuss your requirements, request a quote, or schedule ASTM D570 testing to support material selection, performance validation, and compliance.
Scope, Applications, and Benefits
Scope
ASTM D570 defines the procedure for determining the amount of water absorbed by plastics after immersion for a specified duration. It applies to homogeneous and laminated plastics, including sheets, rods, tubes, and molded or cast resin products. The test provides insights into moisture sensitivity and its impact on dimensional stability, electrical insulation, strength, and appearance.
Applications
- Evaluating moisture effects on mechanical and electrical properties
- Assessing the suitability of plastics for wet or humid environments
- Quality control for molded or extruded plastic components
- Material comparison during R&D and formulation refinement
- Uniformity testing for rods, tubes, and sheets in finished product form
Benefits
- Determine the percentage water absorption under standardized conditions
- Understand moisture-related degradation or dimensional changes
- Support material selection for applications requiring moisture resistance
- Verify consistency and uniformity in plastic production
- Predict long-term performance under water or humidity exposure.
Test Process
Specimen Preparation
Specimens are dried at a specified temperature, cooled in a desiccator, and weighed before immersion.
1Immersion Conditioning
Samples are placed in water, typically at 23°C for 24 hours or until equilibrium is reached.
2Post-Immersion Handling
Specimens are removed, surface-dried with a lint-free cloth, and weighed immediately.
3Absorption Measurement
Water absorption is calculated based on the percentage weight gain; results also help evaluate product uniformity.
4Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Specimen Type | Molded plastic disks (50.8 mm diameter × 3.2 mm thickness) preferred |
| Sheet Thickness | Typically, 0.13 mm sheets for cut specimens |
| Sample Preparation | Injection molded or cut from sheets, plates, rods, or tubes |
| Conditioning Temperature | Usually 23°C |
| Exposure Duration | Typically, 24 hours or until moisture equilibrium |
| Test Output | Water Absorption %, Moisture Influence on Mechanical & Electrical Properties |
Instrumentation Used for Testing
- Precision weighing balances with high accuracy
- Controlled-temperature drying ovens
- Desiccators for specimen cooling
- Water baths with precise temperature control
- Lint-free drying materials for consistent sample handling
Results and Deliverables
- Percentage Water Absorption (% weight increase)
- Material performance assessment under moisture exposure
- Observed changes in dimensions, appearance, or mass
- Influence of moisture on mechanical and electrical properties
- Product uniformity evaluation for sheets, rods, and tubes
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Frequently Asked Questions
Water absorption determines the amount of water absorbed under specified conditions. Factors affecting water absorption include the type of plastic, additives used, temperature, and length of exposure.
Water absorption tester TP-C20 is used to evaluate the degree of water absorption of paper and cloth.
According to many construction standards such as ASTM, a good construction material should have a water absorption value within 20%.
The composite specimens are cut into square-shaped pieces of 20 mm in length.
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