5.1 The major organic constituents in industrial waste water need to be identified for support of effective in-plant or pollution control programs. Currently, the most practical means for tentatively identifying and measuring a range of volatile organic compounds is gas-liquid chromatography.

1.1 This test method covers a wide range of alcohols with various structures and boiling points that can be separated and detected quantitatively in water and waste water at a minimum detection limit of approximately 1 mg/L by aqueous-injection gas-liquid chromatography.² This test method can also be used to detect other volatile organic compounds qualitatively. Organic acids, amines, and high boiling, highly polar compounds are not readily detectable under this set of conditions. For analysis of organics with similar functionalities, refer to other test methods in Volumes 11.01 and 11.02 of the Annual Book of ASTM Standards.

1.2 This test method utilizes the procedures and precautions as described in Practice D2908. Utilize the procedures and precautions as described therein.

1.3 This test method has been used successfully with reagent grade Type II and natural chlorinated tap waters. It is the user's responsibility to assure the validity of this test method for any untested matrices.

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.