Iron ore particle testing standards are published by ISO. They include sampling of slurries and vocabulary related to iron ore and direct reduced iron.
ISO 16742:2014 sets out the basic methods for sampling fine iron ore of nominal top size 1 mm that is mixed with water to form a slurry. At very high ratios of fine solids to water when the material assumes a soft plastic form (about 80 % solids depending on the particle size distribution of the solids), the mixture is correctly termed a paste. The procedures described in ISO 16742:2014 apply to sampling of iron ore that is transported in moving streams as a slurry. These streams can fall freely or be confined in pipes, launders, chutes, spirals, or similar channels.
ISO 11323:2010 gives the definitions for terms used in TC 102 standards for sampling, sample preparation, moisture and particle size analysis and physical testing of iron ore and direct reduced iron. Some specific analytical terms used in the relevant International Standards are also included.