This document specifies three methods for quantitative measurement of crystalline silica (CS) major polymorphs (quartz and cristobalite) mass percentage content in bulk samples using X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD). This document also provides general information about the capabilities and limitations of relevance to laboratories working for routine testing.
Only X-ray diffractometers with Bragg-Brentano geometry are considered. XRPD techniques are used to characterize specimens in the form of loose powders, where the median grain size is between 1 μm and 10 μm physical diameter. Block specimens are not considered.
Although a number of methods of analysis are considered in this document, other XRPD methods of analysis can be considered if they are demonstrated to give equivalent results.
BSI recommends this version of standard for organisations operating in or with the UK. The ISO edition is available here if required.