This test method is primarily intended to test material for compliance with specifications such as those under the jurisdiction of ASTM Technical Committee B02 on Nonferrous Metals and Alloys. It may also be used to test compliance with other specifications that are compatible with the test method.

It is assumed that users of this test method shall be trained analysts capable of performing common laboratory procedures skillfully and safely, and that the work shall be performed in a properly equipped laboratory.

This is a performance-based method that relies more on the demonstrated quality of the test result than on strict adherence to specific procedural steps. It is expected that laboratories using this test method shall prepare their own work instructions. These work instructions shall include detailed operating instructions for the specific laboratory, the specific reference materials employed, and the performance acceptance criteria. It is also expected that, when applicable, each laboratory shall participate in proficiency test programs, such as described in Practice E2027, and that the results from the participating laboratory shall be satisfactory.

1.1 This test method describes the graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometric analysis of nickel, such as specified by ASTM Committee B02, and having chemical compositions within the following limits:

1.2 The following elements may be determined using this test method:

1.3 This test method has only been interlaboratory-tested for the elements and ranges specified. It may be possible to extend this test method to other elements or different concentration ranges provided that a test method validation study that includes an instrument performance evaluation as described in Practice E1770 is performed. Additionally, the validation study shall evaluate the acceptability of sample preparation methodology using reference materials or spike recoveries, or both. The user is cautioned to carefully evaluate the validation data as to the intended purpose of the analytical results.

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. For specific hazards statements see Note 2 and Section 9.