ASTM D5814-02

Presence of paper, metal, or incompatible polymer contamination in poly(ethylene terephthalate) renders the recycled polymer unfit for use in secondary product manufacturing operations. This procedure is useful for identifying different types of contamination in recycled PET flakes.

1.1 This practice covers an indication of the quality of recycled transparent poly(ethylene terephthalate) by examination of a wafer or plaque formed by melting a representative sample and quenching it to prevent crystallization.

1.2 Specific contaminants and impurities such as aluminum particles, dirt particles, paper, and fibers are identified in the transparent wafer.

1.3 The overall color of the plaque is indicative of oxidizable contaminants such as ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) glue residue and the number of bubbles present in the plaque gives an indication of the moisture content of the sample.

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. Specific precautionary statements are given in Section 8.

Note 1—There is no equivalent ISO standard.