A: No. This standard applies only to solid molded, extruded, or cast specimens.
A: Your test results are invalid per Section 4 of the standard. Recondition and retest after recalibration. Conclusion: Why You Need the Official ASTM D618-21 PDF Searching for "astm d618-21 pdf" is the first step toward defensible, repeatable plastic testing. This standard is not bureaucratic paperwork—it is a scientific tool. Without proper conditioning, a tensile strength result or an impact resistance value is meaningless. With D618-21, you ensure that your data can withstand scrutiny from customers, auditors, and regulatory agencies.
The "21" denotes the year of last approval—2021. While the standard is reaffirmed periodically, the 2021 version currently contains the most up-to-date requirements for humidity control, temperature tolerances, and testing timelines. Plastics are hygroscopic or hydrophobic to varying degrees. Nylon absorbs moisture from the air, becoming more flexible and impact-resistant. Polycarbonate, on the other hand, can become brittle if too dry. Without a standard like ASTM D618, one laboratory might test "dry-as-molded" nylon while another tests nylon conditioned at 50% RH. The results would disagree by 50% or more.
A: Go to www.astm.org and search for "D618-21." Click "Add to Cart."
ISO 291 is more forgiving on humidity tolerance but requires longer conditioning. ASTM D618-21 is stricter on RH but shorter on time. Never assume compliance with one means compliance with the other. 10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Q1: Can I get ASTM D618-21 for free? A: Not legally unless your employer subscribes to ASTM Compass or you have academic access.
Do not rely on worn-out photocopies or outdated revisions. Purchase the official PDF from ASTM International, save it to your laboratory’s quality server, and build your conditioning protocols directly from the source. Your test results—and your reputation—depend on it. Prices and standard statuses are subject to change. Always verify the current revision at www.astm.org. This article is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal or accreditation advice.