4.1 This test method can be used to measure the level of mercury in natural gas streams 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 natural gas processing and operation.

4.2 Adsorption of the mercury on gold-coated beads can remove interferences associated with the direct measurement of mercury in natural gas. It preconcentrates the mercury before analysis thereby offering measurement of ultra-low average concentrations in a natural gas stream over a long span of time. It avoids the cumbersome use of liquid spargers with on-site sampling, and eliminates contamination problems associated with the use of potassium permanganate solutions.^3,4,5

1.1 This test covers the determination of total mercury in natural gas at concentrations down to 1 ng/m³. It includes separate procedures for both sampling and atomic absorption spectrophotometric determination of mercury. The procedure detects both inorganic and organic forms of mercury.

1.2 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 and/or mercury containing products into your state or country may be prohibited by law.

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.