ASTM E247 Determination of Silica in Manganese Ores, Iron Ores, and Related Materials
The estimation of silica content in manganese ores, iron ores, and other such materials is done using the ASTM E247 standard test method. This method uses gravimetric analysis, which is a laboratory technique that uses the change in mass to calculate the amount or concentration of an analyte.

TRUSTED BY




Precision-driven testing for dimensional accuracy and compliance
- Overview
- Scope, Applications, and Benefits
- Test Process
- Specifications
- Instrumentation
- Results and Deliverables
Overview
ASTM E247 is a standardized analytical method used primarily in the mining and metallurgical industries to precisely quantify the amount of silica ($SiO_{2}$) in specific ores. Because silica levels directly impact the quality of the finished metal and the efficiency of the smelting process, this test is a cornerstone of quality control.
The method employs a gravimetric approach, a “referee” or classical wet-chemistry technique. It is highly valued for its accuracy when handling high-silica concentrations, where instrumental methods may require frequent calibration or encounter interference.

Scope, Applications, and Benefits
Scope
ASTM E247 specifies a standardized chemical analysis method for the quantitative determination of silica (SiO₂) in manganese ores, iron ores, and related mineral materials. The test ensures accurate measurement of silica content to support quality control, material classification, and process optimization in mining and metallurgical operations.
Applications
- Quality assessment of manganese and iron ores
- Raw material inspection in mining and beneficiation plants
- Process control in iron and steelmaking operations
- Material characterization for trade and commercial transactions
- Research and development in mineral processing and metallurgy
Benefits
- Ensures accurate and reliable determination of silica content
- Supports quality control of ores and mineral raw materials
- Helps in evaluating ore suitability for metallurgical processing
- Reduces variability in analytical results through standardized procedures
- Aids in compliance with industry and regulatory specifications
Testing Process
Sample Preparation
Dry the ore sample, grind to the specified fineness, and homogenize thoroughly.
1Weighing
Accurately weigh a representative test portion of the prepared sample.
2Decomposition
Digest the sample using appropriate acids to dissolve the matrix and release silica.
3Calculation
Calculate % SiO₂ based on residue mass and original sample weight.
4Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Analyte | Silica (SiO₂) |
| Sample Form | Dried and finely ground powder |
| Sample Weight | As specified by the standard (typically ~0.5–1 g) |
| Measurement Basis | Mass of ignited silica residue |
| Accuracy | High accuracy for routine chemical analysis |
| Standard Reference | ASTM E247 |
Instrumentation Used
- Analytical balance
- Drying oven or muffle furnace
- Beakers, crucibles, and digestion vessels
- Hot plate or heating mantle
- Filtration apparatus
- Desiccator
- Data recording and calculation tools
Results and Deliverables
- Analytical balance
- Drying oven or muffle furnace
- Beakers, crucibles, and digestion vessels
- Hot plate or heating mantle
- Filtration apparatus
- Desiccator
- Data recording and calculation tools
Frequently Asked Questions
Case Studies
In-depth examination of genuine material testing solutions
Dopant and Ultra-Low Concentration Elemental Analysis Using STEM…
Introduction to STEM-EELS for Elemental Analysis Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (STEM) combined with Electron Energy Loss...
Read Case StudyAnalysis of PVC Pipe Degradation Using FTIR Spectroscopy
PVC Pipe in Infrastructure — and Why Degradation Matters Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pressure pipe is one...
Read Case StudyNano-scale roughness measurement of Si-wafers by Atomic Force…
Nano-scale surface roughness is a critical parameter in fabricated thin-films that are used in optics, solar...
Read Case Study
Request a Quote
Submit your material details and receive testing procedures, pricing, and turnaround time within 24 hours.
Quick Turnaround and Hasslefree process

Confidentiality Guarantee

Free, No-obligation Consultation

100% Customer Satisfaction
