Standard Test Method for Percent Volume Nonvolatile Matter in Clear or Pigmented Coatings Using a Helium Gas Pycnometer

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the percent volume nonvolatile matter of a variety of clear and pigmented coatings. The approach used should provide faster and more accurate results than the use of liquid displacement technique in Test Method D 2697, particularly for coatings that are difficult to wet or that contain voids, cracks or other defects. The improvement in accuracy stems from the superior ability of helium gas under pressure to penetrate very small pores and surface irregularities in dried films. This provides a more accurate determination of void volumes than can be obtained via liquid displacement.

1.2 The technique will provide results under the following constraints:

1.2.1 The stability of the helium gas pycnometeris greater than ± 0.005cm3

1.2.2 Test specimen weights are greater than 1 g.

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

1.4 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.