This test method is useful for the determination of element concentrations in many natural waters and wastewaters. It has the capability for the simultaneous determination of up to 20 elements. High sensitivity analysis can be achieved for some elements that are difficult to determine by other techniques such as Flame Atomic Absorption.

1. Scope

1.1 This test method covers the determination of dissolved, total-recoverable, or total elements in drinking water, surface water, domestic, or industrial wastewaters. ^,

1.2 It is the user's responsibility to ensure the validity of the test method for waters of untested matrices.

1.3 Table 1 lists elements for which this test method applies, with recommended wavelengths and typical estimated instrumental detection limits using conventional pneumatic nebulization. Actual working detection limits are sample dependent and as the sample matrix varies, these detection limits may also vary. In time, other elements may be added as more information becomes available and as required.

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

1.5 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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific hazard statements, see Note 2 and Section 9.

TABLE 1 Suggested Wavelengths and Estimated
Detection Limits

^A The wavelengths listed are recommended because of their sensitivity and overall acceptance. Other wavelengths may be substituted if they can provide the needed sensitivity and are treated with the same corrective techniques for spectral interference (see 6.1.1).

^B The estimated detection limits as shown are taken from Winge, Fassel, et al. They are given as a guide for approximate detection limits for the listed wavelengths. The actual test method instrumental detection limits are sample-dependent and may vary as the sample matrix varies (see 3.1.3).

2. Referenced Documents (purchase separately) The documents listed below are referenced within the subject standard but are not provided as part of the standard.

ASTM Standards

D1066 Practice for Sampling Steam

D1129 Terminology Relating to Water

D1192 Guide for Equipment for Sampling Water and Steam in Closed Conduits

D1193 Specification for Reagent Water

D2777 Practice for Determination of Precision and Bias of Applicable Test Methods of Committee D19 on Water

D3370 Practices for Sampling Water from Closed Conduits

D4841 Practice for Estimation of Holding Time for Water Samples Containing Organic and Inorganic Constituents

D5810 Guide for Spiking into Aqueous Samples

D5847 Practice for Writing Quality Control Specifications for Standard Test Methods for Water Analysis

Keywords

elements; inductively-coupled argon plasma atomic emission spectroscopy; simultaneous determination; Argon plasma spectrometry/spectroscopy; Drinking water; ICP-AES (inductively-coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry); Inorganic compounds--water; Simultaneous measurement/determination; Spectroscopy--atomic emission; Surface water; Wastewater testing/treatment

ICS Code

ICS Number Code 71.040.50 (Physicochemical methods of analysis)

Citing ASTM Standards

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