ASTM E538-98(2008)

Mercury is a toxic material and is also deleterious if present in caustic soda and caustic potash used in certain manufacturing processes. It must therefore be controlled as a possible pollutant. These test methods provide a procedure for measuring mercury in liquid and solid caustic soda and caustic potash.

1.1 These test methods cover the routine determination of mercury in caustic soda and caustic potash liquors and anhydrous caustic soda in the solid, flake, ground, and bead form by the flameless atomic absorption method.

1.2 Two test methods are described as follows: Test Method A employs a direct analysis of the sample using an alkaline reducing agent with a lower limit of detection of 0.1 ppb (ng/g). Test Method A was developed using caustic soda and caustic potash. Test Method B requires a preliminary neutralization of the sample followed by a permanganate oxidation before it can be analyzed by an acidic reducing agent with a lower limit of detection of this test method of 0.01 ppm (μg/g). Test Method B was developed using caustic soda.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard.

1.4 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. Specific hazards statements are given in Section 7 and 17.

1.5 Review the current material safety data sheets (MSDS) for detailed information concerning toxicity, first-aid procedures, and safety precautions.