ASTM E 2046 : 2019

1.1This test method describes the measurement of reaction induction time (RIT) of chemical materials that undergo exothermic reactions with an induction period. The techniques and apparatus described may be used for solids, liquids, or slurries of chemical substances. The temperature range covered by this test method is typically from ambient to 400 °C. This range may be extended depending upon the apparatus used.

1.2The RIT is a relative index value, not an absolute thermodynamic property. As an index value, the RIT value may change depending upon experimental conditions. A comparison of RIT values may be made only for materials tested under similar conditions of apparatus, specimen size, and so forth. Furthermore, the RIT value may not predict behavior of large quantities of material.

1.3The RIT shall not be used by itself to establish a safe operating temperature. It may be used in conjunction with other test methods (for example, Test Methods E487 and E537, and Guide E1981) as part of a hazard analysis of a particular operation.

1.4This test method may be used for RIT values greater than 15 min (as relative imprecision increases at shorter periods).

1.5This test method is used to study catalytic, autocatalytic, and accelerating reactions. These reactions depend upon time as well as temperature. Such reactions are often studied by fixing one experimental parameter (that is, time or temperature) and then measuring the other parameter (that is, temperature or time). This test method measures time to reaction onset detection under isothermal conditions. It is related to Test Method E487 that measures detected reaction onset temperature under constant time conditions

1.6The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this test method.

1.7This 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.8This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.