Standard Test Methods for Determination of Gel Content and Swell Ratio of Crosslinked Ethylene Plastics

1.1 The gel content (insoluble fraction) produced in ethylene plastics by crosslinking can be determined by extracting with solvents such as decahydronaphthalene or xylene. Such extraction test methods are described herein. They are applicable to crosslinked ethylene plastics of all densities, including those containing fillers, and all provide corrections for the inert fillers present in some of those compounds.

1.2 Test Method A, which permits most complete extraction in least time, is to be used for referee tests, but two alternative nonreferee Test Methods B and C are also described. The first of these differs from the referee test method only in sample preparation; that is, it requires use of shavings taken at selected points in cable insulation, for example, rather than the ground sample required by the referee test method. Because the shaved particles are larger, less total surface per sample is exposed to the extractant, so this test method ordinarily yields extraction values about 1 to 2% lower than the referee method. The second of the alternative test methods requires that a specimen in one piece be extracted in xylene at a constant temperature of 110°C. At this temperature and with a one-piece specimen, even less extraction occurs (from 3 to 9% less than the referee test method) but swell ratio (a measure of the degree of crosslinking in the gel phase) can be determined.

1.3 Extraction tests can be made on articles of any shape. They have been particularly useful for electrical insulations since specimens may be selected from those portions of the insulation most susceptible to insufficient crosslinking.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The inch-pound units in parentheses are for information only.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific precautionary statements are given in Sections 6, 10, and 25.