ASTM F 51/F51M : 2000 : R2014 : EDT 1

1.1This test method covers the determination of detachable particulate contaminant 5 μm or larger, in and on the fabric of clean room garments.

1.2This test method does not apply to nonporous fabrics such as Tyvek (trademarked) or Gortex (trademarked). It only applies to fabrics that are porous such as cotton or polyester.

1.3This test method provides not only the traditional optical microscopic analysis but also a size distribution and surface obscuration analysis for particles on a fine-textured membrane filter or in a tape lift sample. It utilizes transmitted illumination to render all particles darker than the background for gray level detection. Particles collected on opaque plates must be transferred to a suitable membrane filter.

1.4The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.

1.5This standard may involve hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. This 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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.