ASTM D1622 Apparent Density of Rigid Cellular Plastics

ASTM D1622 test method determines the properties of cellular materials by providing measures of their apparent overall density (skins formed in the manufacturing process are included) and apparent core density (skins formed in the manufacturing process are removed). This method is mainly used for expanded plastics. The final results of this test method are expressed in SI units.

Talk to an Expert

ASTM D1622 Apparent Density of Rigid Cellular Plastics

TRUSTED BY

Precision-driven testing for dimensional accuracy and compliance

Overview
Scope, Applications, and Benefits
Test Process
Specifications
Instrumentation
Results and Deliverables

Overview

ASTM D1622 determines the apparent density of rigid cellular plastics by measuring the mass and volume of a specimen. This test is essential for evaluating material structure, as density directly influences mechanical strength, thermal insulation, and overall performance of foam-based materials.

It is widely used to assess product quality, ensure uniformity, and support material selection for engineering applications. By providing accurate density values, the test helps predict behavior under load, optimize formulations, and maintain consistency in manufacturing processes.

Scope, Applications, and Benefits

Scope

ASTM D1622 defines a method for determining the apparent density of rigid cellular plastics using precise measurement of mass and geometric volume. It is applicable to closed-cell and open-cell foam materials used in various structural and insulation applications.

Applicable to rigid cellular plastics and foam materials
Measures apparent density based on mass-to-volume ratio
Suitable for molded, cut, or fabricated specimens
Supports quality control and material comparison
Helps evaluate uniformity and structural consistency
Used for product specification and compliance verification
Applicable across a wide density range of foam materials

Applications

Thermal insulation materials
Structural foam components
Packaging and cushioning materials
Aerospace and automotive lightweight structures
Building and construction insulation panels

Benefits

Provides accurate density measurement
Helps assess material uniformity and consistency
Supports performance prediction and design decisions
Enables comparison between different foam materials
Improves quality control in manufacturing

Test Process

Specimen Preparation

Sample is cut into a regular shape with known dimensions and conditioned.

Mass Measurement

Specimen is weighed using a calibrated analytical balance.

Volume Determination

Dimensions are measured to calculate specimen volume accurately.

Density Calculation

Apparent density is calculated as mass divided by volume.

Technical Specifications

Parameter	Details
Material Type	Rigid cellular plastics
Specimen Shape	Regular geometry (cube, cylinder, etc.)
Measurement Tools	Calipers or micrometers
Balance Accuracy	High-precision analytical balance
Density Range	Wide range depending on foam type
Conditioning	Standard temperature and humidity
Output	Density in kg/m³ or g/cm³

Instrumentation Used for Testing

Analytical balance
Vernier caliper or micrometer
Cutting tools for specimen preparation
Conditioning chamber (if required)
Measuring scale or ruler

Results and Deliverables

Apparent density value (kg/m³ or g/cm³)
Sample dimensions and mass details
Test conditions (temperature and humidity)
Observations on sample uniformity
Compliance statement with ASTM D1622

Why Choose Infinita Lab for ASTM D1622?

At the core of this breadth is our network of 2,000+ accredited labs in the USA, offering access to over 10,000 test types. From advanced metrology (SEM, TEM, RBS, XPS) to mechanical, dielectric, environmental, and standardized ASTM/ISO testing, we give clients unmatched flexibility, specialization, and scale. You’re not limited by geography, facility, or methodology—Infinita connects you to the right testing, every time.

Looking for a trusted partner to achieve your research goals? Schedule a meeting with us, send us a request, or call us at (888) 878-3090 to learn more about our services and how we can support you. Request a Quote

Frequently Asked Questions

ASTM D1622 test method determines the properties of cellular materials by providing measures of their apparent overall density (including the skins formed in the manufacturing process) and apparent core density (After removing the skins formed in the manufacturing process).

Measuring apparent density helps determine the material's mass per unit volume. This measurement is crucial for evaluating its physical properties, performance, and suitability for specific applications.

Apparent density directly affects mechanical strength, thermal insulation, and overall performance of foam materials. It helps determine suitability for specific applications and ensures that products meet design and performance requirements consistently.

ASTM D1622 helps industries ensure consistent product quality by providing accurate density measurements. This information supports material selection, quality control, and product development, leading to improved performance and reliability of cellular plastics in various applications.

Higher density typically increases strength and durability, while lower density improves insulation and reduces weight. The right balance depends on the intended application of the material.