This practice is primarily to be used to dry samples for the determination of mercury test portions, and it should not be used for the determination of sample moisture content. Most sample preparation methods prescribe drying the samples at 105 °C, until a constant mass is obtained. The moisture content is determined as the percentage mass loss on drying. However, since mercury can volatize from samples at the normally utilized temperature, samples that are to be used for mercury determination shall be dried at 60 °C (see Practice E 877, ISO 9599, ISO 12743, and ISO 10251).

It is assumed that all who use this practice will be trained analysts capable of performing skillfully and safely. It is expected that work will be performed in a properly equipped laboratory under appropriate quality control practices such as those described in Guide E 882.

1.1 This practice covers the sample drying step for the determination of mercury in ores, concentrates, and related metallurgical materials.

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

1.3 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.