ASTM D6581-00(2005)

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the oxyhalides - chlorite, bromate, and chlorate, and bromide, in raw water, finished drinking water and bottled (non-carbonated) water by chemically suppressed ion chromatography. The ranges tested using this method for each analyte were as follows:

The upper limits may be extended by appropriate sample dilution or by the use of a smaller injection volume. Other ions of interest, such as fluoride, chloride, nitrite, nitrate, phosphate, and sulfate may also be determined using this method. However, analysis of these ions is not the object of this test method.

1.2 It is the user's responsibility to ensure the validity of these test methods for waters of untested matrices.

1.3 This test method is technically equivalent with Part B of U.S. EPA Method 300.1, titled "The Determination of Inorganic Anions in Drinking Water by Ion Chromatography".

1.4 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.

The oxyhalides chlorite, chlorate, and bromate are inorganic disinfection by-products (DBPs) of considerable health risk concern worldwide. The occurrence of chlorite and chlorate is associated with the use of chlorine dioxide, as well as hypochlorite solutions used for drinking water disinfection. The occurrence of bromate is associated with the use of ozone for disinfection, wherein naturally occurring bromide is oxidized to bromate. Bromide is a naturally occurring precursor to the formation of bromate.