ASTM D6111-97 - 10.7.1997
 
1. Scope

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the bulk density and specific gravity of plastic lumber and shapes in their "as manufactured" form. As such, this is a test method for evaluating the properties of plastic lumber or shapes as a product and not a material property test method.

1.2 This test method is suitable for determining the bulk specific gravity or bulk density by immersion of the entire item or a representative cross section in water. This test method involves the weighing of a one piece specimen in water, using a sinker with plastics that are lighter than water. this test method is suitable for products that are wet by, but otherwise not affected by water for the duration of the test.

1.3 Plastic lumber and plastic shapes are currently made predominately from recycled plastics. However, this test method would also be applicable to similar manufactured plastic products made from virgin resins where the product is non-homogenous in the cross-section.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard.

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.

Note 1- There is no similar or equivalent ISO standard.

 
2. Referenced Documents

D883-26a

Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics (Includes all amendments and changes 6/15/2026).

D618-21

Standard Practice for Conditioning Plastics for Testing

D1622-26

Standard Test Method for Apparent Density of Rigid Cellular Plastics

D1898-68(1989)

Standard Practice for Sampling of Plastics (Withdrawn 1998)

E691-23

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

D6108-24

Standard Test Method for Compressive Properties of Plastic Lumber and Shapes

E1-14(2025)

Standard Specification for ASTM Liquid-in-Glass Thermometers

E12-70(1991)e01

Terminology Relating to Density and Specific Gravity of Solids, Liquids, and Gases (Withdrawn 1996)

D5033-00

Standard Guide for Development of ASTM Standards Relating to Recycling and Use of Recycled Plastics (Withdrawn 2007)