AS NZS 1462.28:2003 Methods of test for plastics pipes and fittings
4.1.1.1 Using a scalpel (3.2.2), cut six specimens, each of mass 0,6 mg ± 0,2 mg for assessing pigment dispersion, or each of mass 0,20 mg ± 0,10 mg for assessing carbon black dispersion, from different parts of the product to be analysed (see notes 1, 2, and 3). Place the six specimens on one or more clean microscope slides (3.1.2), with each specimen approximately equidistant from its neighbour and from adjacent edges of the slide (see note 4). Cover with another (or other) clean microscope slide(s) or cover slip(s) (see note 5).
NOTE 1 It should be noted that difficulty will be encountered with the microscopic examination of specimens which are too thick.
NOTE 2 The specimens are preferably cut along different axes of the product.
NOTE 3 It is recommended that cutting out the specimens take place on a clean surface to minimize the possibility of extraneous contamination.
NOTE 4 Adherence of the specimens may be improved by heating the slide or using a drop of immersion oil or Canada balsam.
NOTE 5 Shims made of metal or another suitable material may be used to ensure that uniform thickness is obtained. For the specimen mass and thickness given, a film at least 4 mm across is obtained (see note 1).
4.1.1.2 If an oven (see 3.2.1) is to be used, clamp the two slides together with spring clips (see 3.2.3). Place the clamped slides in the oven, for instance (see 3.2.1) maintained at a temperature between 150 °C and 210 °C and leave for at least 10 min until each specimen is pressed out to a film of thickness of at least 60 μm ± 20 μm for assessment of pigment dispersion or to a thickness of 20 μm ± 10 μm for assessment of carbon black dispersion (see note 1 to 4.1.1.1).
Remove the slides from the oven and, when they are cool enough to be handled, remove the clips.
4.1.2 Microtome procedure
Cut six specimens from different parts of the product (see note 2 to 4.1.1.1) to produce films of a thickness of 60 μm ± 20 μm for assessment of pigment dispersion or of a thickness of 20 μm ± 10 μm for assessment of carbon black dispersion, and at least 4 mm across in any direction (see note 1 to 4.1.1.1).
Place the six specimens on one or more clean microscope slides (3.1.2), with each specimen approximately equidistant from its neighbour and from adjacent edges of the slide (see note 4 to 4.1.1.1). Cover with another (or other) clean microscope slide(s) or cover slip.