5.1 This test method can be used to measure the level of mercury in any gaseous fuel (as defined by Terminology D4150) for purposes such as determining compliance with regulations, studying the effect of various abatement procedures on mercury emissions, checking the validity of direct instrumental measurements, and verifying that mercury concentrations are below those required for gaseous fuel processing and operations.

5.2 Adsorption of the mercury on gold-coated sorbent can remove interferences associated with the direct measurement of mercury in the presence of high concentrations of organic compounds. It preconcentrates the mercury before analysis, thereby offering measurement of ultra-low average concentrations in a gas stream over a long time span. It avoids the cumbersome use of liquid spargers with on-site sampling and eliminates contamination problems associated with the use of potassium permanganate solutions.5^,6^,7

1.1 This test method covers the determination of total mercury in gaseous fuels at concentrations down to 0.5 ng/m³. It includes separate procedures for both sampling and atomic absorption spectrophotometric determination of mercury. This procedure detects both inorganic and organic forms of mercury.

1.2 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard.

1.3 Warning—Mercury has been designated by many regulatory agencies as a hazardous material that can cause serious medical issues. Mercury, or its vapor, has been demonstrated to be hazardous to health and corrosive to materials. Caution should be taken when handling mercury and mercury containing products. See the applicable product Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for additional information. Users should be aware that selling mercury or mercury containing products, or both, into your state or country may be prohibited by law.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.