1.1 This test method describes a procedure for determining the sorption affinity of waste solutes by unconsolidated geologic material in aqueous suspension, for example, soils, fluvial sediments, sedimentary deposits, or any other accumulations of unconsolidated solid particles (for a companion method, for metal solute, see Test Method D4319). The waste solute may be derived from a variety of sources such as wells, underdrain systems, or laboratory solutions like those produced by waste extraction tests (for example, Test Method D3987).

1.2 This test method is applicable for screening and providing the relative rankings of a large number of samples for their sorption affinity in aqueous leachate/geomedia suspensions. This test method may not simulate closely the sorption characteristics that would occur in unperturbed geologic settings and under flow conditions.

1.3 While this test method is intended to be applicable for all soluble organic constituents, care must be taken with respect to the stability of the particular constituents and their possible losses from solution by such processes as volatilization or degradation by microbes, light, or hydrolysis.

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

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, 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.