Do you need to measure the moisture or volatile matter content of your materials according to ASTM E1868 ?
Securing the stability of ASD materials with ASTM E1868
In the Aerospace, Space, and Defense (ASD) sectors, the uncontrolled presence of moisture or volatile compounds in powders, polymers, or lubricants is a safety imperative. These substances can cause porosity during sintering, adhesion defects, or premature degradation of your essential parts.
ASTM E1868 defines a standard test method for the determination of Loss-on-Drying (LOD) by Thermogravimetry (TGA). This technique allows for the extremely precise measurement of mass loss in a sample subjected to a controlled temperature program, ensuring reliable quantification of volatile compounds.
At FILAB, we support manufacturers in the ASD supply chain with the thermal characterization of their materials according to ASTM E1868. Our goal is clear: to ensure the reliability of your technical and industrial decisions.
ASTM E1868: a key challenge for material compliance
Loss on Drying (LOD) analysis by TGA according to ASTM E1868
The method relies on the use of a high-resolution thermobalance. The sample is heated under a controlled atmosphere (nitrogen or air), and the mass variation is recorded continuously as a function of temperature and time.
It is specifically used to:
- Precisely measure Loss on Drying (LOD).
- Quantify solvent residues or moisture in metal and ceramic powders.
- Verify the purity of additives and polymers before processing.
In the Aerospace and Defense industries, mastering volatiles according to ASTM E1868 has a direct impact on:
- Quality of chemical bonds in composites and adhesives.
- Long-term reliability of strategic components subjected to temperature variations.
FILAB, a laboratory tailored to aerospace & defense requirements
An analytical park dedicated to ASTM E1868 testing
Analysis according to ASTM E1868 requires perfect thermal stability and weighing sensitivity on the order of a microgram. To meet these requirements, FILAB provides its clients with state-of-the-art equipment :
Dedicated material expertise services
At FILAB, analyses according to ASTM E1868 are part of a comprehensive failure analysis or material qualification approach. We do not just provide a mass loss curve: we analyze the origin of volatiles. Our teams work on :
Additive manufacturing powders (residual moisture detection)
Machining fluids and aerospace lubricants
Why choose FILAB ?
- 45 years of recognized expertise in analysis and materials science
- Dual competence: Chemistry / Materials
- Specializing in metallic alloys and critical applications
- Customer qualification : Safran, Dassault Aviation, and Framatome
- ISO 17025 Accreditation regarding metallic alloys
Analysis of Iron, Aluminium, Molybdenum, Copper, Tin, Chromium, Titanium, Lead, Nickel, Zinc
Learn moreOur analytical services based on ISO and ASTM standards for the ASD sector
Our analytical services in accordance with MIL requirements for the ASD sector
Our FAQ
Using a TGA according to ASTM E1868 allows for dynamic monitoring. Where an oven only gives the final result, TGA distinguishes at exactly which temperature each compound evaporates, making it possible to differentiate moisture from organic solvents, for example.
The technique is very material-efficient: a few milligrams (10 to 50 mg) are generally sufficient to obtain a representative and precise measurement.
ASTM E1868 focuses on quantifying mass loss. However, FILAB can perform complementary analyses using coupling techniques (TGA-FTIR or TGA-GCMS) to precisely identify the nature of the volatile molecules.
ASTM E1868 imposes rigorous calibration protocols (mass and temperature standards). FILAB ensures regular maintenance and verification of its thermobalances to guarantee results compliant with the strictest requirements of the ASD sector.
To get a quote, you can contact our teams via our contact form, by phone, or by email. Simply send us your requirements (type of material, desired analysis, specific standard, urgency, sample quantity...). We will then send you a personalized technical and price proposal within 24-48 hours.
