5.1 This test method is suitable for setting specifications on phenol and for use as an internal quality control tool where phenol is produced or is used in a manufacturing process. It may also be used in development or research work involving phenol. It is generally applied to determining those commonly occurring impurities such as mesityl oxide, cumene, hydroxyacetone, acetone, alpha-methylstyrene, 2-methylbenzofuran, and acetophenone.

5.2 Purity is commonly reported by subtracting the determined expected impurities from 100.00. However, a gas chromatographic analysis cannot determine absolute purity if water is present or unknown components are contained within the material being examined.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of known impurities in phenol by gas chromatography (GC). It is generally meant for the analysis of phenol of 99.9 % or greater purity.

1.2 This test method has been found applicable over impurity concentrations of 15 to 70 mg/kg. Users of this method believe it is linear over a wider range.

1.3 In determining the conformance of the test results using this method to applicable specifications, results shall be rounded off in accordance with the rounding-off method of Practice E29.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.5 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. For specific hazard statements, see Section 9.