Aluminum in Water

D857: Standard Test Method for Aluminum in Water

Understanding and accurately quantifying aluminum levels in water is crucial across numerous industrial and environmental applications. ASTM D857 provides an essential, authoritative framework for this vital analysis, ensuring reliable results for engineers, chemists, and water quality professionals.

What is D857?

ASTM D857, "Standard Test Method for Aluminum in Water," is a widely recognized industry standard published by ASTM International. It outlines a comprehensive procedure for determining the concentration of aluminum in various water matrices using direct flame atomic absorption spectroscopy. This proven method is fundamental for ensuring water quality and process efficiency.

Scope & Purpose

This standard specifically governs the determination of dissolved and total recoverable aluminum in water samples. It is applicable to a concentration range of 0.5 to 5.0 mg/L, with provisions for higher concentrations up to approximately 50 mg/L, though precision and bias data are limited beyond the primary range. The method is validated for reagent, natural, and potable waters, with users responsible for confirming its applicability to other water types. It does not cover older, discontinued methods or address all potential safety concerns, which are the user's responsibility to manage.

Who Must Comply?

• • Primary audience: Laboratory Technicians, Environmental Chemists, Water Quality Analysts, Process Engineers, and laboratory managers.
• • Industries affected: Water Utilities, Environmental Consulting firms, Manufacturing facilities, Power Generation plants, and Wastewater Treatment operations.
• • Compliance nature: Voluntary, but often recommended or mandated by project specifications, regulatory requirements, or internal quality control protocols.
• • Enforcement: Typically overseen by environmental regulatory agencies, internal quality assurance departments, or clients requiring adherence to specific water quality standards.

Key Requirements Overview

The standard requires the use of direct flame atomic absorption spectroscopy, specifically employing a nitrous oxide-acetylene flame for optimal aluminum detection. Professionals must ensure proper sample collection and preservation techniques, including filtration and acidification for dissolved and total recoverable aluminum, respectively. Key provisions include the use of reagent-grade chemicals and specific reagent water types to maintain analytical integrity. The method necessitates the use of an ionization suppressor, such as sodium chloride, to mitigate interferences and achieve accurate measurements within the specified concentration ranges.

Related Standards & References

ASTM D857 is frequently used in conjunction with other ASTM standards that govern water analysis and sampling. For instance, ASTM D1129 (Terminology Relating to Water) provides essential definitions for consistent understanding of terms. ASTM D1193 (Specification for Reagent Water) ensures the purity of water used in preparing standards and reagents. Furthermore, ASTM D3370 (Practices for Sampling Water from Closed Conduits) or ASTM D1066 (Practice for Sampling Steam) may be referenced for appropriate sample acquisition protocols, ensuring the integrity of the aluminum determination.