5.1 This practice is primarily to be used to dry samples for determination of total mercury. It should not be used for determination of sample moisture content. Most sample preparation methods prescribe drying samples at 105 °C, until a constant mass is obtained. The moisture content is determined as the percent mass loss on drying. Because mercury and some of its compounds are volatile at 105 °C, samples for mercury determination shall be dried at 60 °C (see Practice E877, ISO 9599, ISO 12743, and ISO 10251).

5.2 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 E882.

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 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.

1.4 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.