ASTM D1217 for Density and Relative Density (Specific Gravity) of Liquids
ASTM D1217 Standard Test Method for Density and Relative Density (Specific Gravity) of Liquids by Bingham Pycnometer
6. Apparatus
6.1 Pycnometer, Bingham-type, conforming to the dimensions given in Fig. 1, constructed of borosilicate glass and having a total weight not exceeding 30 g.
6.2 Constant-Temperature Bath, provided with suitable pycnometer holders or clips and means for maintaining temperatures constant to more or less 0.01°C in the desired range.
6.3 Bath Thermometer, graduated in 0.1°C subdivisions and standardized for the ice point and the range of use to the nearest 0.01°C. ASTM Saybolt Viscosity Thermometer 17C as prescribed in Specification E 1, designed for tests at 21.1°C and 25°C, is recommended. A standardized platinum resistance thermometer may also be used, and offers the best means for observing minute temperature changes in the bath. Whichever means are available, it must be realized that for most hydrocarbons the density coefficient is about 0.0008 units/°C, and therefore an error of more or less 0.013°C would cause an error of more or less 0.00001 in density.
6.4 Hypodermic Syringe, 30-mL capacity, of chemically resistant glass, equipped with a 152-mm (6-in.) needle made of stainless steel tubing as shown in Fig. 2.
6.5 Draw-Off Needle, made of stainless steel tubing as shown in Fig. 2.
6.6 Solvent-Cleaning Assembly, as shown in Fig. 3.
6.7 Chromic Acid Cleaning Apparatus, similar to that shown in Fig. 4.
6.8 Balance, capable of reproducing weighings within 0.1 mg. Mechanical balances should have sensitivity which causes the pointer to be deflected 2 or 3 scale divisions per 1 mg when carrying a load of 30 g or less on each pan. The balance should be located in a room shielded from drafts and fumes and in which the temperature changes between related weighings (empty and filled pycnometer) do not cause a significant change in the ratio of the balance arms. Otherwise weighings shall be made by the method of substitution, in which the calibrated weights and pycnometer are alternately weighed on the same balance pan. The same balance shall be used for all related weighings.
6.9 Weights, whose relative values are known to the nearest 0.05 mg or better. The same set of weights shall be used for the calibration of the pycnometer and the determination of densities.
7. Reagents and Materials
7.1 Acetone - (Warning - See Note 1).
NOTE 1 - Warning: Extremely flammable. Use adequate ventilation.
7.2 Isopentane - ( Warning - See Note 2).
NOTE 2 - Warning: Extremely flammable. Avoid buildup of vapors and remove all sources of ignition, especially non-explosion proof electrical apparatus.
7.3 Chromic Acid (Potassium Dichromate/Conc. Sulfuric Acid) - (Warning - See Note 3).
NOTE 3 - Warning: Causes severe burns. A recognized carcinogen. Do not get in eyes, or on skin or clothing.
