Overview
ASTM D263-05(2023): Standard Specification for Chrome Oxide Green Pigment defines the quality and properties of dry pigment commercially known as chrome oxide green. Developed by ASTM International, this standard sets forth detailed requirements regarding the composition, sampling, and testing of chromium sesqui-oxide (Cr₂O₃) pigment. The document ensures consistent quality in industrial pigments by specifying purity, particle size, moisture content, and tinting properties. Compliance supports manufacturers, suppliers, and end-users in meeting both national and international expectations for pigment performance and safety.
Key Topics
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Composition Requirements:
- Chrome oxide green pigment must consist of practically pure chromium sesqui-oxide without additives.
- Key limits include:
- Minimum 98% total chromium (as Cr₂O₃)
- Maximum 0.5% total water-soluble matter
- Maximum 0.5% moisture and volatile matter
- Maximum 1.0% coarse particles (retained on a No. 325 sieve)
- No organic colors or lakes allowed
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Color and Tint Testing:
- The pigment’s mass color, tint character, and tinting strength when mixed with white pigment must meet mutually agreed standards between buyers and sellers.
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Sampling and Testing Procedures:
- Sampling: Two samples are randomly taken from each lot or shipment for analysis.
- Testing: Procedures reference ASTM D126, D185, and D280 for evaluating chromium content, particle size, moisture, and other properties.
- All tests must comply with referenced ASTM test methods or, if not available, other mutually accepted procedures.
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International Compliance:
- ASTM D263-05(2023) aligns with WTO TBT Committee principles, supporting global trade in chrome oxide green pigments.
Applications
Chrome oxide green pigment is widely used due to its stability, opacity, and vivid color. Industries and applications benefiting from strict adherence to ASTM D263-05(2023) include:
- Paints and Coatings: Used in industrial, commercial, and marine paints for durable and weather-resistant coloring.
- Construction Materials: Incorporated in concrete, cement, and ceramic products to provide enduring coloration.
- Plastics and Polymers: Ensures color consistency and stability under varied processing conditions.
- Art and Decorative Uses: Supplies artists and manufacturers of artistic materials with high-purity, stable pigments.
- Military and Safety Applications: Meets stringent U.S. Department of Defense requirements for specialty coatings and camouflages.
Ensuring pigment quality according to this standard minimizes variation and risks in critical end-use applications, supports regulatory compliance, and fosters market trust.
Related Standards
To ensure comprehensive pigment evaluation and quality control, refer to these connected ASTM standards:
- ASTM D126: Test Methods for Analysis of Yellow, Orange, and Green Pigments Containing Lead Chromate and Chromium Oxide Green.
- ASTM D185: Test Methods for Coarse Particles in Pigments.
- ASTM D280: Test Methods for Hygroscopic Moisture (and Other Volatile Matter) in Pigments.
These standards provide in-depth procedures for the tests referenced in ASTM D263-05(2023), ensuring a robust framework for pigment quality assurance.
Keywords: ASTM D263, chrome oxide green pigment, chromium sesqui-oxide, pigment specification, paint pigment standards, pigment testing, pigment quality, tinting strength, industrial pigments, ASTM International.