1.1 This practice covers the types of and preparation of containers found most suitable for the handling of hydrocarbon samples for the determination of total mercury.

1.2 This practice was developed for sampling streams where the mercury speciation is predominantly Hg(0) present as a mixture of dissolved Hg(0) atoms, adsorbed Hg(0) on particulates (for example, carbonaceous or mineral fines and Fe₂O₃) and suspended droplets of metallic mercury.

1.3 The presence of suspended droplets of metallic mercury (often called “colloidal” mercury, since the droplet size can be very small) can make obtaining a representative sample very difficult for a variety of reasons (for example, non-isokinetic sampling of the liquid can result in over- or under-collection of suspended droplets and collection of mercury that has accumulated in dense larger drops and pools on the bottom of piping and in sample taps). Pay strict attention to the detailed procedure (Section 7) to ensure representative samples are collected.

1.4 When representative test portions are collected and analyzed in accordance with acceptable procedures, the total mercury is representative of concentrations in the sample.

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

1.6 Warning—Mercury has been designated by EPA and many state agencies as a hazardous material that can cause central nervous system, kidney, and liver damage. Mercury, or its vapor, may be hazardous to health and corrosive to materials. Caution should be taken when handling mercury and mercury-containing products. See the applicable product Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for details and EPA’s website (http://www.epa.gov/mercury/faq.htm) for additional information. Users should be aware that selling mercury or mercury-containing products, or both, in your state may be prohibited by state law.

1.7 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.8 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.