Groundwater samples are subject to chemical, physical, and biological change relative to in- situ conditions at the ground surfaces as a result of exposure to ambient conditions during sample collection (for example, pressure, temperature, ultraviolet radiation, atmospheric oxygen, and contaminants) (1) (2). Physical and chemical preservation of samples minimize further changes in sample chemistry that can occur from the moment the groundwater sample is retrieved, to the time it is removed from the sample container for extraction or analysis, or both. Measures also must be taken to preserve the physical integrity of the sample container.

The need for sample preservation for specific analytes should be defined prior to the sampling event and documented in the site-specific sampling and analysis plan in accordance with Guide D5903. The decision to preserve a sample should be made on a parameter-specific basis as defined by individual analytical methods.

1.1 This guide covers methods for field preservation of groundwater samples. Laboratory preservation methods are not described in this guide.

1.2 This standard may involve hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. 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.

1.3 This guide offers an organized collection of information or a series of options and does not recommend a specific course of action. This document cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment. Not all aspects of this guide may be applicable in all circumstances. This ASTM standard is not intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this document be applied without consideration of a project's many unique aspects. The word“ Standard” in the title of this document means only that the document has been approved through the ASTM consensus process.