1.1This test method recommends a standard procedure for measuring oxidation rates in air of various grades of nuclear graphite and/or manufactured carbon. Following the standard procedure recommended here, one can obtain kinetic parameters that characterize the oxidation resistance of tested materials and that can be used to for materials selection and qualification, and for quality control purposes in the fabrication process.

1.2This test method covers the rate of oxidative weight loss per exposed nominal geometric surface area, or per initial weight of machined test specimens of standard size and shape, or both. The test is valid in the temperature range where the rate of air oxidation of graphite and manufactured carbon is limited by reaction kinetics.

1.3This test method also provides a standard oxidation temperature (as defined in 3.1.7), and the kinetic parameters of the oxidation reaction, namely the activation energy and the logarithm of pre-exponential factor in Arrhenius equation. The kinetic parameters of Arrhenius equation are calculated from the temperature dependence of oxidation rates measured over the temperature range where Arrhenius plots (as defined in 3.1.8) are linear, which is defined as the “kinetic” or “chemical control” oxidation regime. For typical nuclear grade graphite materials it was found that the practical range of testing temperatures is from about 500 °C to 550 °C up to about 700 °C to 750 °C.

1.4The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.5This 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.