ASTM D3340-07

Lubricating greases can contain the lithium soap of hydroxy stearic acid or the sodium soap of various fatty acids as thickeners. The determination of total lithium or total sodium is a measure of the amount of thickener in the grease.

1.1 This test method covers determination of the lithium and sodium content of lubricating greases by means of a flame photometer.

1.2 A multi-element analysis method for greases, which includes the measurement of lithium and sodium concentrations using inductively couple plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES), is available in Test Method D 7303.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.The preferred units are mass %.

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.