Apr 16, 2010

A proposed new ASTM International standard will assist users of cyanide analysis methods who want to work in compliance with the International Cyanide Management Code. The Code covers the proper handling of cyanide from production, transportation to processing sites and design of cyanide facilities, including detoxification, storage and release of excess cyanide processing waters.

ASTM WK27288, Guide for Cyanide Analysis Methods for International Cyanide Management Code Compliance is currently being developed by Subcommittee D19.06 on Methods for Analysis for Organic Substances in Water, part of ASTM International Committee D19 on Water.

The analytical methods covered in ASTM WK27288 are used in conjunction with the Code to: measure cyanide concentrations in solution to control and optimize the use of cyanide in the gold leaching process; protect wildlife when solutions and slurries are released into open impoundment facilities; define the concentration needed to qualify as a process solution for handling purposes, and protect human heath and aquatic wildlife from environmental releases for treated excess water from processing operations.

“ASTM WK27288 will help users to select the proper sampling, preservation and analysis procedures for managing cyanidation processes and to select the proper equipment and reagents for processing samples,” says William Lipps, product specialist, OI Analytical, and chair of the D19.06 task group that is developing the proposed new standard.

Participation is welcome in the further development of ASTM WK27288, particularly from plant operators and cyanide code auditors. More information on the Cyanide Management Code can be found at www.cyanidecode.org.

On June 9, D19 will host an ASTM and EPA workshop covering new and revised cyanide methods proposed by the EPA for inclusion in 40CFR Part 136. The workshop will occur during the D19 meetings in St. Louis, Mo. Contact D19 member John Sebroski (phone: 412-777-3420 ext. 2227; john.sebroski@bayerbms.com) for more information and reservations since seating will be limited.

ASTM International welcomes and encourages participation in the development of its standards. For more information on becoming an ASTM member, visit www.astm.org/JOIN.

ASTM Committee D19 Next Meeting: June 6-9, June Committee Week, St. Louis, Mo.
Technical Contact: William Lipps, OI Analytical, College Station, Texas, Phone: 979-690-1711; wlipps@oico.com
ASTM Staff Contact: Brynn Murphy, Phone: 610-832-9640; bmurphy@astm.org
ASTM PR Contact  Barbara Schindler, Phone: 610-832-9603; bschindl@astm.org

Release #8552