ASTM D6247-10 - 1.8.2010
 
Significance and Use

Elemental analysis serves as a quality control measure for post-reactor studies, for additive levels in formulated resins, and for finished products. X-ray fluorescence spectrometry is an accurate and relatively fast method to determine mass fractions of multiple elements in polyethylene and polypropylene materials.

 
1. Scope

1.1 This test method covers a general procedure for the determination of elemental content in polyolefins by wavelength-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (WDXRF) spectrometry, in mass fraction ranges typical of those contributed by additives, catalysts, and reactor processes. The elements covered by this test method include fluorine, sodium, magnesium, aluminum, silicon, phosphorus, sulfur, calcium, titanium, chromium, and zinc in the composition ranges given in Table 1.

 
2. Referenced Documents

C1118-07

Standard Guide for Selecting Components for Wavelength-Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) Systems (Withdrawn 2011)

D883-26a

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

D4703-24

Standard Practice for Compression Molding Thermoplastic Materials into Test Specimens, Plaques, or Sheets

E1621-22

Standard Guide for Elemental Analysis by Wavelength Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometry

D6247-18(2024)

Standard Test Method for Determination of Elemental Content of Polyolefins by Wavelength Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry

E1361-02(2026)

Standard Guide for Correction of Interelement Effects in X-Ray Spectrometric Analysis

E1601-19

Standard Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to Evaluate the Performance of an Analytical Method

E29-22

Standard Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data to Determine Conformance with Specifications

E135-26a

Standard Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials (Includes all amendments and changes 8/6/2026).