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ASTM D1331

ASTM D1331 – Standard Test Methods for Surface and Interfacial Tension of Solutions of Paints, Solvents, Solutions of Surface-Active Agents, and Related Materials

Description:

Significance and Use

5.1 These methods provide data that are useful in evaluating the effectiveness of surface active agents in reducing surface tension. In addition, surface tension data can predict interactions between liquids and solid surfaces or other liquids and can be used to establish wetting properties of paints, solvents, and other liquids.

5.2 A number of laboratories have found the Wilhelmy plate to be easier to use, easier to clean and generally better for use with pigmented paints.

Scope

1.1 These test methods cover the determination of surface tension and interfacial tension of a variety of liquid materials, including but not restricted to paints, solvents, and solutions of surface-active agents, as defined in Terminology D459. Four methods are covered as follows:

Method A—Surface Tension by du Noüy ring;

Method B—Interfacial Tension by du Noüy ring;

Method C—Surface Tension by Wilhelmy plate; and

Method D—Interfacial Tension by Wilhelmy plate.

1.2 Method A originally was written primarily to cover aqueous solutions of surface-active agents, but is also applicable to aqueous paints, nonaqueous solutions (including paints) and mixed solvent solutions.

1.3 Method B is applicable to two-phase solutions. More than one solute component may be present, including solute components that are not in themselves surface-active.

1.4 Method C is applicable to surface active liquids and, unlike du Noüy ring, no buoyancy corrections are needed and results are not affected by moderate viscosities (1-10 Pa-sec) of the liquid. It is the recommended method for use with paints and resin solutions.

1.5 Method D is applicable to two-phase solutions and mixtures.

1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

Related Test Methods

ASTM D5208

ASTM D5206

ASTM D5201

ASTM D5200

ASTM D5199

ASTM D5198

ASTM D5194

ASTM D5191

ASTM D5190

ASTM D5188

ASTM D5187

ASTM D5186

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