ASTM D5673 Mercury Test in Water
The ASTM D5673 standard practice provides a method for the determination of total mercury in water by cold vapor atomic absorption spectrophotometry (CV-AAS). This test is essential for ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and identifying potential environmental hazards associated with mercury contamination. Mercury, being highly toxic to humans and ecosystems, requires rigorous monitoring to protect public health and the environment.
The ASTM D5673 method involves several key steps: sample collection, preservation, digestion, and analysis using CV-AAS. The sample must be collected in a suitable container, typically made of glass or plastic, ensuring that it does not contain any mercury compounds. After collection, the sample is preserved by acidification to prevent further degradation or contamination.
For accurate results, the digestion process involves heating the sample at controlled conditions to ensure complete conversion of all forms of mercury into elemental mercury. This step is critical as it ensures that all forms of mercury are available for detection and quantification. The digested sample is then introduced into the CV-AAS instrument, where the elemental mercury is converted to atomic vapor and detected by absorption in a beam of light.
The accuracy and precision of ASTM D5673 rely on proper calibration of the CV-AAS instrument using standard reference materials. Regular quality control checks are also necessary to ensure consistent results over time. The method’s sensitivity allows for detection down to parts per billion (ppb) levels, making it highly effective for monitoring low concentrations of mercury in water.
ASTM D5673 is widely used in various sectors including environmental protection agencies, drinking water treatment facilities, industrial wastewater management, and research institutions. Compliance with this standard ensures that water supplies are safe from harmful levels of mercury, thereby protecting public health and meeting regulatory requirements.
Scope and Methodology
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Sample Collection | Collect water samples in acid-washed glass or plastic containers to prevent contamination. |
| Preservation | Add nitric acid (HNO₃) to the sample to a final concentration of 0.5% ± 0.1%, ensuring the pH is below 2.0. |
| Digestion | Heat the digested sample in a microwave digestion system or similar apparatus at controlled conditions until all mercury compounds are converted to elemental mercury. |
| Analysis | Transfer the digested sample to a CV-AAS instrument where the elemental mercury is detected by absorption of light. |
The ASTM D5673 method ensures that all forms of mercury, including organic and inorganic species, are quantified. This comprehensive approach allows for accurate determination of total mercury content in water samples. The use of CV-AAS provides high sensitivity and selectivity, making it suitable for detecting even trace amounts of mercury.
The acceptance criteria for the ASTM D5673 method include a detection limit of 0.2 μg/L (parts per billion) and a precision requirement where repeatability is ±10% and reproducibility is ±15%. These stringent standards ensure that results are reliable and can be trusted by regulatory bodies and industry stakeholders.
The use of this method aligns with international standards such as ISO 7258, which specifies the procedure for the determination of mercury in water by CV-AAS. By adhering to these guidelines, laboratories can provide accurate and consistent results that contribute to the overall quality and safety of water supplies.
Eurolab Advantages
At Eurolab, we pride ourselves on delivering top-tier ASTM D5673 mercury tests in water with precision, reliability, and efficiency. Our team of experts ensures that every step of the process adheres strictly to the standard practices outlined by ASTM.
We employ state-of-the-art CV-AAS instruments calibrated using international standards like ISO 17025, ensuring accuracy and traceability. Our laboratories are equipped with modern facilities and experienced personnel who have extensive experience in water quality analysis.
Our commitment to quality is reflected in our ability to meet tight deadlines while maintaining high standards of accuracy. We also provide comprehensive reporting that includes detailed information on sample preparation, digestion conditions, instrument calibration, and final results. This transparency allows clients to make informed decisions based on reliable data.
In addition to our technical expertise, Eurolab offers a range of additional services that complement the ASTM D5673 test. These include water quality assessments, risk management strategies, and training programs for personnel involved in water testing. Our comprehensive approach ensures that clients receive not just results but also actionable insights that can help them manage their water resources more effectively.
By choosing Eurolab for your ASTM D5673 mercury tests in water, you are investing in a partner who understands the importance of accurate and reliable data. We ensure that every test is conducted with the highest level of professionalism and integrity, providing results that meet or exceed regulatory requirements.
Customer Impact and Satisfaction
The ASTM D5673 mercury test in water plays a crucial role in ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and safeguarding public health. Our customers benefit from this service by receiving accurate, reliable results that help them make informed decisions about their water quality.
For quality managers, the test provides critical data to ensure that water supplies meet regulatory standards. Compliance officers can use these results to verify adherence to legal requirements and avoid costly penalties. R&D engineers gain valuable insights into potential sources of mercury contamination, which can inform product design and development decisions. Procurement teams benefit from knowing that the water used in their processes is safe and meets specified quality criteria.
Our customers have consistently praised our service for its reliability and accuracy. They appreciate the detailed reporting we provide, which includes step-by-step information on sample preparation and analysis. This transparency enhances trust between clients and laboratory partners, fostering long-term relationships based on mutual respect and shared goals.
We also receive positive feedback from environmental agencies that rely on our test results to monitor water quality and identify potential threats. By providing timely and accurate data, we contribute to the overall protection of water resources and public health.
Customer satisfaction is a priority at Eurolab. We continuously seek ways to improve our services based on client feedback and technological advancements in water testing. Our dedicated team works tirelessly to ensure that every test meets or exceeds expectations, delivering results that are both accurate and actionable.
