This specification describes the required characteristics of reagent waters. Four types of waters have been specified, with three additional grades that can be applied to the four types. The grade specifications specifically address contaminants of microbiological origin. Historically, reagent water types I, II, III, and IV have been linked to specific processes for their production. Starting with this revision, these types of waters may be produced with alternate technologies as long as the appropriate constituent specifications are met. The electrical conductivity and resistance, pH, silica, sodium, chlorides, TOC, endotoxins, and microbiological contamination shall be tested to meet the requirements prescribed.

1.1 This specification describes the required characteristics of waters deemed suitable for use with the Standards under the jurisdiction of ASTM.

1.2 The alphanumeric characters ascribed to water types and grades are specified in the ASTM Format and Style Manual. These have been assigned in order of historical precedence and should not be taken as an indication of a progression in water purity.

1.3 Four types of waters have been specified, with three additional grades that can be applied to the four types. The grade specifications specifically address contaminants of microbiological origin.

1.4 All applicable ASTM Standards are expected to reference one or more of these reagent water types where reagent water is needed as a component of an analytical measurement process. Where a different water type or grade is needed for an ASTM Standard, it may be added to this Specification through the ASTM Standard revision process.

1.5 Although these water types and associated grades have been defined specifically for use with ASTM Standards, they may be appropriate for other applications. It is the responsibility of the users of this standard to ensure that the selected water types or grades are suitable for their intended use. Historically, reagent water Types I, II, III, and IV have been linked to specific processes for their production. Starting with this revision, these types of waters may be produced with alternate technologies as long as the appropriate constituent specifications are met and that water so produced has been shown to be appropriate for the application where the use of such water is specified. Therefore, the selection of an alternate technology in place of the technology specified in should be made taking into account the potential impact of other contaminants such as microorganism and pyrogens. Such contaminants were not necessarily considered by the performance characteristics of the technology previously specified.

1.6 Guidance for applications, the preparation, use and monitoring, storage, handling, distribution, testing of these specified waters and validation of the water purification system is provided in of this document.

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.