ASTM D6226-21 Open Cell Content of Rigid Cellular Plastics
ASTM D6226-21 test method provides details about the cellular plastics and their construction from membranes and walls of polymer separated by small cavities or cells. It helps determine different types of cells along with their numerical volume. It provides accurate measurements of highly open-celled materials. The final results of this test method are expressed in SI Units.

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- Overview
- Scope, Applications, and Benefits
- Test Process
- Specifications
- Instrumentation
- Results and Deliverables
Overview
ASTM D6226-21 is a standardized test method used to determine the open-cell content of rigid cellular plastics. Open-cell content is a critical property influencing thermal insulation, moisture absorption, and mechanical performance of foam materials. This test provides quantitative data by measuring the volume of interconnected cells within the material structure.
The method typically uses gas displacement techniques to evaluate the proportion of open versus closed cells. It is widely applied in quality control, product development, and performance validation of rigid foam materials, ensuring consistency, durability, and suitability for various industrial and engineering applications.

Scope, Applications, and Benefits
Scope
ASTM D6226-21 defines procedures for determining the percentage of open cells in rigid cellular plastics using gas pycnometry or similar displacement techniques. It ensures reliable and reproducible results for material characterization.
- Applicable to rigid cellular plastics and foam materials
- Measures interconnected (open) cell structure
- Suitable for quality control and research applications
- Uses gas displacement or pycnometer-based methods
- Provides quantitative percentage of open-cell content
Applications
- Quality evaluation of rigid foam materials
- Thermal insulation performance assessment
- Product development and formulation optimization
- Material comparison and benchmarking
- Moisture absorption studies
- Structural performance analysis
Benefits
- Accurate determination of open-cell structure
- Supports material performance optimization
- Enhances product consistency and quality control
- Helps predict insulation and moisture behavior
- Standardized and reproducible testing method
- Suitable for research and industrial applications
Test Process
Sample Preparation
Specimen is cut to required dimensions ensuring no surface damage or deformation.
1Initial Measurement
Sample volume and mass are determined under controlled conditions.
2Gas Displacement
Gas pycnometer measures volume excluding open cells to determine closed-cell portion.
3Calculation
Open-cell content is calculated as percentage based on total and closed-cell volume difference.
4Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Property Measured | Percentage of open-cell content within foam structure. |
| Material Type | Rigid cellular plastics including polymeric foam materials. |
| Method | Gas displacement technique using pycnometry for volume determination. |
| Measurement Unit | Reported as percentage (%) of open cells. |
| Output | Quantitative open-cell content value based on volume analysis. |
| Sensitivity | High sensitivity to detect small differences in cell structure. |
Instrumentation Used for Testing
- Gas pycnometer
- Analytical balance
- Sample cutting tools
- Vernier caliper or micrometer
- Conditioning chamber
- Volume measurement accessories
Results and Deliverables
- Open-cell content percentage (%)
- Detailed test report with methodology
- Sample identification and test conditions
- Calibration and quality control data
- Comparative analysis
- Compliance evaluation data
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Frequently Asked Questions
The expansion volume chamber is isolated to prevent interference from external pressure changes while accurately measuring the specimen's volume.
Factors include improper sample preparation, surface damage, incorrect calibration, environmental variations, and measurement errors, all of which must be controlled to ensure accurate and reproducible results.
Differentiating between open and closed cells helps assess the material's porosity, gas retention, water absorption, and thermal conductivity. These properties are crucial for determining the material's suitability for various applications, such as insulation or packaging.
Materials tested using this method are often used in industries requiring insulation, packaging, and automotive applications. The test results help determine the material's suitability based on water resistance, thermal conductivity, and durability.
To remove any trapped air and vapors from the specimen, at least two purging cycles are required. This can be accomplished by alternating the pressure inside the sample chamber.

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