Scope:

ASTM C1203 test method is used to evaluate the alkali durability of a ceramic-glass enamel quantitatively. This test procedure determines the quantitative resistance of a burnt ceramic-glass enamel to a 10% alkali solution. The test is appropriate for glass covered with burned enamels that may be exposed to strong alkalis or alkalis at high temperatures in service.

Test Procedure:

ASTM C1203 test method examines the weight loss of a glass specimen coated with a burned ceramic-glass enamel when completely immersed in a 10% alkali solution at its boiling point. In a temperature-controlled water bath, a stainless steel beaker holding the test materials and a 10% alkali solution is heated for 2 hours at 95°C. To determine both the chemical dissolution of the ceramic-glass enamel covering and any weight loss owing to substrate dissolution, the weight loss of the specimen after exposure to the hot alkali solution is used. The expected weight loss due to dissolution of the non-decorated side of the substrate is calculated using a substrate without a ceramic-glass enamel.

Specimen Size : 

For ASTM C1203 testing, the specimen is appropriately annealed and painted with a ceramic-glass enamel. The test specimen must be small enough to be weighed accurately to the closest 0.1 mg. Large tempered glass sheets or specimens greater than 9 by 9 cm are not suitable for this test.

Data:

Results can be used as an indicator of the relative durability of a particular enamel. 

Conclusion:

ASTM C1203 test method is used to evaluate the alkali durability of a ceramic-glass enamel quantitatively.