ASTM D5138-23 - Standard Classification System and Basis for Specification for Liquid Crystal Polymers Molding and Extrusion Materials (LCP)

1.1 This classification system covers liquid crystal polymeric (LCP) materials suitable for injection molding and extrusion. This classification system allows the use of liquid crystal polymers that are recycled, reconstituted, recycled-regrind, recovered, or reprocessed, or a combination thereof, provided that the requirements as stated in this classification system are met. It is the responsibility of the supplier and the buyer of liquid crystal polymers that are recycled, reconstituted, recycled-regrind, recovered, or reprocessed, or a combination thereof, to ensure compliance.

1.2 The properties included in this classification system are those required to identify the compositions covered. Other requirements necessary to identify particular characteristics important to specialized applications are allowed. These shall be agreed upon between the user and the supplier, by using suffixes as given in Section 5.

1.3 This classification system and subsequent line callout (specification) are intended to be a means of calling out plastic materials used in the fabrication of end-use items or parts. It is not intended for the selection of materials. Material selection can be made by those having expertise in the plastics field after careful consideration of the design and the performance required of the part, the environment to which it will be exposed, the fabrication process to be employed, the costs involved, and the inherent properties of the material other than those covered by this classification system.

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

1.5 The following precautionary caveat pertains only to the test method portion, Section 11, of this classification system: 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.6 This 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.