ASTM D542-14 - 1.3.2014
 
Significance and Use

4.1 This test method measures a fundamental property of matter which is useful for the control of purity and composition for simple identification purposes, and for optical parts design. This test method is capable of readability to four figures to the right of the decimal point.

 
1. Scope

1.1 This test method covers a procedure for measuring the index of refraction of transparent organic plastic materials.

1.2 A refractometer method is presented. This procedure will satisfactorily cover the range of refractive indices found for such materials. Refractive index measurements require optically homogeneous specimens of uniform refractive index.

Note 1This test method and ISO 489 are technically equivalent.

1.3 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.

 
2. Referenced Documents

ISO 489

Determination of the Refractive Index of Transparent Plastics--Part A Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St., 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org.

E691-23

Standard Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to Determine the Precision of a Test Method

E284-25

Standard Terminology of Appearance

D883-26b

Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics (Includes all amendments and changes 8/24/2026).

D618-21

Standard Practice for Conditioning Plastics for Testing

C162-23

Standard Terminology of Glass and Glass Products