ASTM International is developing a new standard to guide contamination detection in additive manufacturing (AM) metal powders. The proposed guide (WK80171) is being prepared by ASTM’s additive manufacturing technologies committee (F42), specifically its test methods subcommittee (F42.01).
According to ASTM, the standard will provide a framework for selecting suitable techniques to identify, quantify, and classify contaminants in powder feedstock. The guidance is aimed at both powder manufacturers and users of metal powders in AM, supporting consistent quality control in processes such as laser beam powder bed fusion (LB-PBF).
ASTM member Aneta Chrostek-Mroz, an advanced research engineer at the Manufacturing Technology Center, said the proposed document will define contamination types that may occur in metal powders. It will also outline methods for detecting them and explain how to implement testing approaches in both unused and recycled feedstock.
“The standard will enable powder manufacturers and additive manufacturing machine users to identify appropriate techniques for detecting and quantifying different types of contamination, classify these contaminants, and perform contamination assessment of both unused and re-used powders,” explained Chrostek-Mroz.
To support its development, the F42 committee has evaluated a range of test methods including optical microscopy, automated scanning electron microscopy, x-ray computed tomography, and x-ray fluorescent spectroscopy. Each method is assessed for its performance and suitability in detecting different types and levels of contamination.
ASTM encourages industry participation in shaping the proposed guide. WK80171 is currently open for contributions, with updates available through ASTM International’s website.
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About ASTM International
ASTM International develops more than 12,000 standards that operate globally, covering industries from construction and aerospace to medical devices and consumer goods. Its additive manufacturing technologies committee (F42) has become one of the central groups driving consensus standards for 3D printing.
Among its early achievements was the ASTM F2792 terminology standard (later harmonized as ISO/ASTM 52900), which helped unify language and definitions across the AM sector.
Over the years, ASTM’s F42 committee has steadily broadened its impact. In 2018, it launched the Additive Manufacturing Center of Excellence (AM CoE), a global initiative aimed at accelerating R&D, certification, and workforce development in the AM ecosystem. The AM CoE has also driven quality and data consistency through programs such as the Consortium for Materials Data and Standardization (CMDS), helping industrial stakeholders share trusted materials datasets.
The committee’s mission extends beyond governance. For instance, ASTM has produced standards tailored to powder bed fusion (PBF) technologies, including guidance for cementitious materials for extrusion-based AM, via WK94968, which defines printability parameters and rheological compatibility. Additionally, ASTM has aimed at improving machine condition monitoring in LB‑PBF by working with Fraunhofer ILT to standardize imaging sensor technologies.
ASTM has also taken a strategic role in supporting defense and critical infrastructure. Earlier this year, the organization announced a partnership to strengthen U.S. submarine supply chains through additive manufacturing, further demonstrating how standards development underpins national security and industrial resilience.
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Featured image shows ASTM International logo.
