ASTM D 4349 : 1996

1.1 This classification system covers the basic polymers and copolymers known as polyphenylene ethers and polyphenylene oxides, as well as filled, modified, and reinforced versions.

Note 1-A previous specification (D2874) referred to polyphenylene oxide plastics. The term used in the title of this describes the same generic polymer species but was chosen, along with the abbreviation PPE, to avoid complications with registered trademarks.

1.2 This classification system is not intended for the selection of materials, but only as a means to call out plastic materials to be used for the manufacture of parts. The selection of these materials is to be made by personnel with expertise in the plastics field where the environment, inherent properties of the materials, performance of the parts, part design, manufacturing process, and economics are considered.

1.3 The properties included in the specification are those required to identify the compositions covered. There may be other requirements necessary to identify particular characteristics important to specific applications. These will be agreed upon between the user and the supplier by using the suffixes as given in Section 4.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard.

1.5 The following safety hazards caveat pertains only to the test methods portion, Section 13, of this specification: This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, 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.