ASTM d1068-03

An American National Standard
Designation: D 1068 03
Standard Test Methods for
Iron in Water1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D 1068; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (e) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the Department of Defense.
Applicable Methods of Committee D-19 on Water2

D 3370 Practices for Sampling Water from Closed Conduits2
D 3558 Test Methods for Cobalt in Water2
D 3559 Test Methods for Lead in Water2
D 3919 Practice for Measuring Trace Elements in Water by
Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry2
D 4841 Practice for Estimation of Holding Time for Water
Samples Containing Organic and Inorganic Constituents2
D 5810 Guide for Spiking into Aqueous Samples3
D 5847 Practice for the Writing Quality Control Specifications for Standard Test Methods for Water Analysis3
E 60 Practice for Photometric and Spectrophotometric
Methods for Chemical Analysis of Metals3
E 275 Practice for Describing and Measuring Performance
of Ultraviolet, Visible, and Near Infrared Spectrophotometers4
1. Scope*
1.1 These test methods cover the determination of iron in
water. Procedures are given for determining total iron, dissolved iron, and ferrous iron. Undissolved iron may be
calculated from the total iron and dissolved iron determinations. The test methods are given as follows:
Test Method AAtomic Absorption,
Direct
Test Method CAtomic Absorption,
Graphite Furnace
Test Method DPhotometric
Bathophenanthroline g/L
Range
0.1 to 5.0 mg/L
Sections
7 to 15
5 to 100 g/L
16 to 24
40 to 1000 g/L
25 to 36
1.2 It is the users responsibility to ensure the validity of

these test methods to waters of untested matrices.
1.3 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. Specific hazards
statements are given in Note 3, Note 5, and Note X1.1.
1.4 Two former photometric test methods were discontinued. See Appendix X2 for historical information.
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions: For definitions of terms used in these test
methods, refer to Terminology D 1129.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 total recoverable ironan arbitrary analytical term
relating to the recoverable forms of iron that are determinable
by the digestion method which is included in these test
methods.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D 858 Test Methods for Manganese in Water2
D 1066 Practice for Sampling Steam2
D 1129 Terminology Relating to Water2
D 1192 Specification for Equipment for Sampling Water
and Steam in Closed Conduits2
D 1193 Specification for Reagent Water2
D 1687 Test Methods for Chromium in Water2
D 1688 Test Methods for Copper in Water2
D 1691 Test Methods for Zinc in Water2
D 1886 Test Methods for Nickel in Water2
D 2777 Practice for Determination of Precision and Bias of
4. Significance and Use

4.1 Iron is the second most abundant metallic element in the
earths crust and is essential in the metabolism of plants and
animals. If presented in excessive amounts, however, it forms
oxyhydroxide precipitates that stain laundry and porcelain. As
a result, the recommended limit for iron in domestic water
supplies is 0.3 mg/L. These test methods are useful for
determining iron in many natural waters.
5. Purity of Reagents
5.1 Reagent grade chemicals shall be used in all tests.
Unless otherwise indicated, it is intended that all reagents shall
conform to the specifications of the Committee on Analytical
1
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D19 on
Water and are the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D19.05 on Inorganic
Constituents in Water.
Current edition approved Jan. 10, 2003. Published January 2003. Originally
approved in 1949. Last previous edition approved in 1996 as D 1068 96.
2
Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 11.01.
3
4

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard.

Copyright ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959, United States.
D 1068 03
Reagents of the American Chemical Society, where such
specifications are available. 5 Other grades may be used,
provided it is first ascertained that the reagent is of sufficiently
high purity to permit its use without lessening the accuracy of
the determination.
5.2 Purity of WaterUnless otherwise indicated, references
to water shall be understood to mean reagent water conforming
to Specification D 1193, Type I. Other reagent water types may
be used, provided it is first ascertained that the water is of
sufficiently high purity to permit its use without adversely
affecting the bias and precision of the test method. Type II
water was specified at the time of round-robin testing of these
test methods. In addition, water used in preparing solutions for
the determination of ferrous iron shall be freshly boiled and
essentially oxygen free.
Methods D 1886), chromium (Test Methods D 1687), cobalt

(Test Methods D 3558), copper (Test Methods D 1688), lead
(Test Methods D 3559), manganese (Test Methods D 858), and
zinc (Test Methods D 1691).
9. Interferences
9.1 Sodium, potassium, barium, chloride and sulfate (5000
mg/L each), calcium, magnesium, chromium, manganese,
cobalt, nickel, copper, zinc, palladium, silver, cadmium, tin,
lead, lithium, mercury, selenium, aluminum, antimony, arsenic,
vanadium, boron, and molybdenum (100 mg/L) do not interfere.
9.2 Background correction (or chelation-extraction) may be
necessary to determine low levels of iron in some waters.
NOTE 1Instrument manufacturers instructions for use of the specific
correction technique should be followed.
6. Sampling
6.1 Collect the sample in accordance with Practice D 1066,
Specification D 1192, or Practices D 3370, as applicable.
6.2 Samples should be preserved with HNO3 or HCl (sp gr
1.42) to a pH of 2 or less immediately at the time of collection.
If only dissolved iron is to be determined, the sample shall be
filtered through a 0.45-m membrane filter before acidification.
The holding time for samples can be calculated in accordance
with Practice D 4841.
6.3 If ferrous iron is to be determined, the sample should be
analyzed as soon as possible after collection and contact with
atmospheric oxygen should be minimized.
6.4 Additional information on sampling requirements for
Test Method D is provided in 34.1.
10. Apparatus
10.1 Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer, for use at 248.3
nm.
NOTE 2The manufacturers instructions should be followed for all
instrumental parameters. A wavelength other than 248.3 nm may be used
if it has been determined to be equally suitable.
10.1.1 Iron Hollow-Cathode LampMultielement hollowcathode lamps are available and have also been found satisfactory.
10.2 Pressure-Reducing ValvesThe supplies of fuel and
oxidant shall be maintained at pressures somewhat higher than
the controlled operating pressure of the instrument by suitable
valves.
TEST METHOD AATOMIC ABSORPTION, DIRECT
11. Reagents and Materials

11.1 Hydrochloric Acid (sp gr 1.19)Concentrated hydrochloric acid (HCl).
7. Scope
7.1 This test method covers the determination of dissolved
and total recoverable iron in most waters and wastewaters.
7.2 This test method is applicable in the range from 0.1 to
5.0 mg/L of iron. The range may be extended to concentrations
greater than 5.0 mg/L by dilution of the sample.
7.3 This test method has been used successfully with
reagent water; tap, ground, and surface waters; unspecified
wastewaters; and a refinery primary treatment water. It is the
users responsibility to ensure the validity of this test method
for waters of untested matrices.
NOTE 3If the reagent blank concentration is greater than the method
detection limit, distill the HCl or use a spectrograde acid. Precaution
When HCl is distilled an azeotropic mixture is obtained (approximately 6
N HCl). Therefore, when concentrated HCl is specified for the preparation
of reagents or in the procedure, use double the volume specified if distilled
acid is used.
11.2 Nitric Acid (sp gr 1.42)Concentrated nitric acid

(HNO3).
NOTE 4If the reagent blank concentration is greater than the method
detection limit, distill the HNO3 or use a spectrograde acid.
8. Summary of Test Method

8.1 Iron is determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Dissolved iron is determined by atomizing the filtered
sample directly with no pretreatment. Total recoverable iron is
determined by atomizing the sample following hydrochloricnitric acid digestion and filtration. The same digestion procedure may be used to determine total recoverable nickel (Test
11.3 Nitric Acid (1 + 499)Add 1 volume of HNO3 (sp gr

1.42) to 499 volumes of water.
11.4 Iron Solution, Stock (1 mL = 1.0 mg Iron)Dissolve
1.000 g of pure iron in 100 mL of HCL (1 + 1) with the aid of
heat. Cool and dilute to 1 L with water.
11.5 Iron Solution, Standard (1 mL = 0.1 mg Iron)Dilute
100.0 mL of the iron stock solution to 1 L with water.
11.6 Oxidant:
11.6.1 Air, which has been passed through a suitable filter to
remove oil, water, and other foreign substances is the usual
oxidant.
11.7 Fuel:
11.7.1 AcetyleneStandard, commercially available acetylene is the usual fuel. Acetone, always present in acetylene
5
Reagent Chemicals, American Chemical Society Specifications, American
Chemical Society, Washington, DC. For suggestions on the testing of reagents not
listed by the American Chemical Society, see Analar Standards for Laboratory
Chemicals, BDH Ltd., Poole, Dorset, U.K., and the United States Pharmacopeia
and National Formulary, U.S. Pharmaceutical Convention, Inc. (USPC), Rockville,
MD.
D 1068 03
ST 5 0.047 X 1 0.053
cylinders can affect analytical results. The cylinder should be

replaced at 50 psig (345 kPa).
S o 5 0.030 X 1 0.037
NOTE 5Warning: Purified grade acetylene containing a special

proprietary solvent rather than acetone should not be used with poly vinyl
chloride tubing as weakening of the tubing walls can cause a potentially
hazardous situation.
Water of Choice:
ST 5 0.050 X 1 0.114
12. Standardization
12.1 Prepare 100 mL each of a blank and at least four
standard solutions to bracket the expected iron concentration
range of the samples to be analyzed by diluting the standard
iron solution with HNO3 (1 + 499). Prepare the standards each
time the test is to be performed.
12.2 When determining total recoverable iron add 0.5 mL of
HNO3 (sp gr 1.42) and proceed as directed in 13.1 through
13.5. When determining dissolved iron proceed as directed in
Note 6, 13.1.
12.3 Aspirate the blank and standards and record the instrument readings. Aspirate HNO3 (1 + 499) between each standard.
12.4 Prepare an analytical curve by plotting the absorbance
versus concentration for each standard on linear graph paper.
Alternatively read directly in concentration if this capability is
provided with the instrument.
S o 5 0.024 X 1 0.078
where:
ST = overall precision,
So = single-operator precision, and
X = determined concentration of iron, mg/L.
15.2 Recoveries of known amounts of iron in a series of
prepared standards were as shown in Table 1.
15.3 The collaborative test data were obtained on reagent
water; tap, lake, ground and surface water; unspecified wastewater; and a refinery primary treatment water. It is the users
responsibility to ensure the validity of this test method for
waters of untested matrices.
15.4 This section on precision and bias conforms to Practice
D 2777 77 which was in place at the time of collaborative
testing. Under the allowances made in 1.4 of D 2777 98,
these precision and bias data do meet existing requirements of
interlaboratory studies of Committee D19 test methods.
13. Procedure
13.1 Measure 100.0 mL of a well-mixed acidified sample
into a 125-mL beaker or flask.
16. Quality Control

16.1 In order to be certain that analytical values obtained
using these test methods are valid and accurate within the
confidence limits of the test, the following QC procedures must
be followed when analyzing iron.
16.2 Calibration and Calibration Verification:
16.2.1 Analyze at least three working standards containing
concentrations of iron that bracket the expected sample concentration, prior to analysis of samples, to calibrate the
instrument. The calibration correlation coefficient shall be
equal to or greater than 0.990. In addition to the initial
calibration blank, a calibration blank shall be analyzed at the
end of the batch run to ensure contamination was not a problem
during the batch analysis.
16.2.2 Verify instrument calibration after standardization by
analyzing a standard at the concentration of one of the
NOTE 6If only dissolved iron is to be determined, start with 13.3.
13.2 Add 5 mL of HCl (sp gr 1.19) to each sample.

13.3 Heat the samples on a steam bath or hotplate in a
well-ventilated hood until the volume has been reduced to 15
to 20 mL, making certain that the samples do not boil.
NOTE 7When analyzing samples of brines or samples containing
appreciable amounts of suspended matter or dissolved solids, the amount
of reduction in volume is left to the discretion of the analyst.
13.4 Cool and filter the samples through a suitable filter

(such as fine-textured, acid-washed, ashless paper), into
100-mL volumetric flasks. Wash the filter paper two or three
times with water and adjust a volume.
13.5 Aspirate each filtered and acidified sample and determine its absorbance or concentration at 248.3 nm. Aspirate
HNO3 (1 + 499) between each sample.
TABLE 1 Determination of Bias, Atomic Absorption, Direct
14. Calculation
14.1 Calculate the concentration of iron in the sample, in
milligrams per litre, referring to 12.4.
Reagent Water Type II:

Amount Added, Amount Found,
mg/L
mg/L
15. Precision and Bias 6

15.1 The precision of this test method for 10 laboratories,
which include 16 operations within its designated range may be
expressed as follows:
Reagent Water Type II:
0.2
2.4
4.4
0.2
2.4
4.3
Bias, %
Bias, mg/L
60.0
60.0
0.1
0.0
0.0
2.3
Natural Water:
Amount Added, Amount Found,
mg/L
mg/L
0.2
2.4
4.4
6
Supporting data are available from ASTM Headquarters. Request RR: D19 1035.
0.2
2.3
4.2
Bias, %
Bias, mg/L
60.0
0.1
0.2
0
4.17
4.55
Statistically
Significant
(95 %
Confidence
Level)
no
no
yes
Statistically
Significant
(95 %
Confidence
Level)
no
yes
yes
D 1068 03
batch by spiking an aliquot of the sample with a known known
concentration of iron and taking it through the analytical
method.
16.6.2 The spike known concentration plus the background
known concentration of iron must not exceed the high calibration standard. The spike must produce a known concentration
in the spiked sample that is 2 to 5 times the analyte known
concentration in the unspiked sample, or 10 to 50 times the
detection limit of the test method, whichever is greater.
16.6.3 Calculate the percent recovery of the spike (P) using
the following formula:
calibration standards. The concentration of a mid-range standard should fall within 615 % of the known concentration.
16.2.3 If calibration cannot be verified, recalibrate the
instrument.
16.3 Initial Demonstration of Laboratory Capability:
16.3.1 If a laboratory has not performed the test before, or if
there has been a major change in the measurement system, for
example, new analyst, new instrument, etc., a precision and
bias study must be performed to demonstrate laboratory
capability.
16.3.2 Analyze seven replicates of a standard solution
prepared from an Independent Reference Material containing a
mid-range concentration of iron. The matrix and chemistry of
the solution should be equivalent to the solution used in the
collaborative study. Each replicate must be taken through the
complete analytical test method including any sample preservation and pretreatment steps. The replicates may be interspersed with samples.
16.3.3 Calculate the mean and standard deviation of the
seven values and compare to the acceptable ranges of bias in
Table 1. This study should be repeated until the recoveries are
within the limits given in Table 1. If a concentration other than
the recommended concentration is used, refer to Practice
D 5847 for information on applying the F test and t test in
evaluating the acceptability of the mean and standard deviation.
16.4 Laboratory Control Sample (LCS):
16.4.1 To ensure that the test method is in control, analyze
a LCS containing a known concentration of iron with each
batch or 10 samples. If large numbers of samples are analyzed
in the batch, analyze the LCS after every 10 samples. The
laboratory control samples for a large batch should cover the
analytical range when possible. The LCS must be taken
through all of the steps of the analytical method including
sample preservation and pretreatment. The result obtained for
a mid-range LCS shall fall within 615 % of the known known
concentration.
16.4.2 If the result is not within these limits, analysis of
samples is halted until the problem is corrected, and either all
the samples in the batch must be reanalyzed, or the results must
be qualified with an indication that they do not fall within the
performance criteria of the test method.
16.5 Method Blank:
16.5.1 Analyze a reagent water test blank with each batch.
The known concentration of iron found in the blank should be
less than 0.5 times the lowest calibration standard. If the known
concentration of iron is found above this level, analysis of
samples is halted until the contamination is eliminated, and a
blank shows no contamination at or above this level, or the
results must be qualified with an indication that they do not fall
within the performance criteria of the test method.
16.6 Matrix Spike (MS):
16.6.1 To check for interferences in the specific matrix
being tested, perform a MS on at least one sample from each
P 5 100 [A~Vs 1 V! 2 B Vs# / C V
(1)
where:
A = analyte known concentration (mg/L) in spiked
sample,
B = analyte known concentration (mg/L) in unspiked
sample,
C = known concentration (mg/L) of analyte in spiking
solution,
Vs = volume (mL) of sample used, and
V = volume (mL) added with spike.
16.6.4 The percent recovery of the spike shall fall within the
limits, based on the analyte known concentration, listed in
Guide D 5810, Table 1. If the percent recovery is not within
these limits, a matrix interference may be present in the sample
selected for spiking. Under these circumstances, one of the
following remedies must be employed: the matrix interference
must be removed, all samples in the batch must be analyzed by
a test method not affected by the matrix interference, or the
NOTE 8Acceptable spike recoveries are dependent on the known
concentration of the component of interest. See Guide D 5810 for
additional information.
16.7 Duplicate:
16.7.1 To check the precision of sample analyses, analyze a
sample in duplicate with each batch. If the known concentration of the analyte is less than five times the detection limit for
the analyte, a matrix spike duplicate (MSD) should be used.
16.7.2 Calculate the standard deviation of the duplicate
values and compare to the precision in the collaborative study
using an F test. Refer to 6.4.4 of Practice D 5847 for information on applying the F test.
16.7.3 If the result exceeds the precision limit, the batch
must be reanalyzed or the results must be qualified with an
indication that they do not fall within the performance criteria
of the test method.
16.8 Independent Reference Material (IRM):
16.8.1 In order to verify the quantitative value produced by
the test method, analyze an Independent Reference Material
(IRM) submitted as a regular sample (if practical) to the
laboratory at least once per quarter. The known concentration
of the IRM should be in the known concentration mid-range for
D 1068 03
20.3 Graphite Furnace, capable of reaching temperatures
sufficient to atomize the element of interest.
20.4 Graphite Tubes, compatible with furnace device. Pyrolytically coated graphite tubes are recommended to eliminate
the possible formation of carbides.
20.5 Pipets, microlitre with disposable tips. Sizes may range
from 1 to 100 L, as required.
20.6 Data Storage and Reduction Devices, Computer- and
Microprocessor-Controlled Devices, or Strip Chart Recorders,
shall be utilized for collection, storage, reduction, and problem
recognition (such as drift, incomplete atomization, changes in
sensitivity, etc.). Strip chart recorders shall have a full scale
deflection time of 0.2 s or less to ensure accuracy.
20.7 Automatic sampling should be used if available.
the method chosen. The value obtained must fall within the
control limits established by the laboratory.
TEST METHOD CATOMIC ABSORPTION,
GRAPHITE FURNACE
17. Scope
17.1 This test method covers the determination of dissolved
and total recoverable iron in most waters and wastewaters.
17.2 This test method is applicable in the range from 5 to
100 g/L of iron using a 20-L injection. The range can be
increased or decreased by varying the volume of sample
injected or the instrumental settings. High concentrations may
be diluted but preferably should be analyzed by direct aspiration atomic absorption spectrophotometry (Test Method A).
reagent grade water, filtered tap water, well water, demineralized water, boiler blowdown water, and condensate from a
medium Btu-coal gasification process. It is the users responsibility to ensure validity of this test method to waters of
untested matrices.
17.4 The analyst is encouraged to consult Practice D 3919
for a general discussion of interferences and sample analysis
procedures for graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometry.
NOTE 11Manual injection has been reported to cause widely scattered

values even on purified waters due to contamination from pipetting
technique.
21. Reagents and Materials

21.1 Iron Solution, Stock (1.0 mL = 1000 g Fe)See 11.4.
21.2 Iron Solution, Intermediate (1.0 mL = 10 g Fe)
Dilute 10.0 mL of iron solution, stock (20.1) and 1 mL of
HNO3(sp gr 1.42) to 1 L with water.
21.3 Iron Solution, Standard (1.0 mL = 0.2 g Fe)Dilute
20.0 mL of iron solution, intermediate (20.2) and 1 mL of
HNO3 (sp gr 1.42) to 1 L water. This standard is used to
prepare working standards at the time of the analysis.
21.4 Nitric Acid (sp gr 1.42)Concentrated nitric acid
(HNO3) (see Note 4).
21.5 Argon, Standard, welders grade, commercially available. Nitrogen may also be used if recommended by the
instrument manufacturer.

18.1 Iron is determined by an atomic absorption spectrophotometer used in conjunction with a graphite furnace. A
sample is placed in a graphite tube, evaporated to dryness,
charred (pyrolyzed or ashed), and atomized. The absorption
signal generated during atomization is recorded and compared
to standards. A general guide for the application of the graphite
furnace is given in Practice D 3919.
18.2 Dissolved iron is determined on a filtered sample with
no pretreatment.
18.3 Total recoverable iron is determined following acid
digestion and filtration. Because chlorides interfere with furnace procedures for some metals, the use of hydrochloric acid
in any digestion or solubilization step is to be avoided. If
suspended material is not present, this digestion and filtration
may be omitted.
22. Standardization
22.1 Initially, set the instrument according to the manufacturers specifications. Follow the general instructions as provided in Practice D 3919.
23. Procedure
23.1 Clean all glassware to be used for preparation of
standard solutions or in the solubilization step, or both, by
rinsing first with HNO3(1 + 1) and then with water.
23.2 Measure 100.0 mL of each standard and well-mixed
sample into 125-mL beakers or flasks. For total recoverable
iron add HNO3(sp gr 1.42) to each standard and sample at a
rate of 5 mL/L and proceed as directed in 23.4 through 23.6.
23.3 If only dissolved iron is to be determined, filter the
sample through a 0.45-m membrane filter prior to acidification and proceed to 23.6.
23.4 Heat the samples at 95C on a steam bath or hotplate
in a well-ventilated fume hood until the volume has been
reduced to 15 to 20 mL, making certain that the samples do not
boil (see Note 7).
23.5 Cool and filter the sample through a suitable filter
(such as fine-textured, acid-washed, ashless paper) into a
100-mL volumetric flask. Wash the filter paper 2 or 3 times
with water and bring to volume (Note 12). The acid concentration at this point should be 0.5 % HNO3.
19. Interferences
19.1 For a complete discussion on general interferences
with furnace procedures, the analyst is referred to Practice
D 3919.
20. Apparatus
20.1 Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer, for use at 248.3
nm with background correction.
NOTE 9A wavelength other than 248.3 nm may be used if it has been
determined to be suitable. Greater linearity may be obtained at high
concentrations by using a less sensitive wavelength.
NOTE 10The manufacturers instructions should be followed for all
instrumental parameters.
20.2 Iron Hollow-Cathode LampA single-element lamp is

preferred, but multielement lamps may be used.
5
D 1068 03
TABLE 2 Determination of Bias, Atomic Absorption, Graphite
Furnace
Reagent Water:
Amount
Amount
Added, g/L Found, g/L
8.0
11.3
20
21.1
68
67.1
Natural Water:
Amount
Amount
Added, g/L Found, g/L
8.0
6.9
20
19.0
68
70.1
ST
6 Bias, g/L
6 % Bias
Statistically
Significant
6.18
12.35
30.62
+ 3.3
+ 1.1
0.9
+ 41.3
+ 5.5
1.3
no
no
no
ST
6 Bias, g/L
6 % Bias
Statistically
Significant
3.17
8.33
21.63
1.1
1.0
+ 2.1
13.8
5.0
+ 3.1
no
no
no

analyzing a standard at the known concentration of one of the
calibration standards. The known concentration of a mid-range
standard should fall within 615 % of the known known
concentration.
instrument.
capability.
mid-range known concentration of iron. The matrix and
chemistry of the solution should be equivalent to the solution
used in the collaborative study. Each replicate must be taken
through the complete analytical test method including any
sample preservation and pretreatment steps. The replicates may
be interspersed with samples.
Table 2. This study should be repeated until the recoveries are
within the limits given in Table 2. If a known concentration
other than the recommended known concentration is used,
refer to Practice D 5847 for information on applying the F test
and t test in evaluating the acceptability of the mean and
standard deviation.
concentration.
26.5 Method Blank:
NOTE 12If suspended material is not present, this filtration may be

omitted. The sample must be diluted to 100 mL.
23.6 Inject a measured aliquot of sample into the furnace

device following the directions as provided by the particular
instrument manufacturer. Refer to Practice D 3919.
24. Calculation
24.1 Determine the concentration of iron in each sample by
referring to Practice D 3919.
25.1 The precision for this test method was developed by 13
laboratories using reagent water and 7 laboratories using tap
water, filtered tap water, well water, demineralized water,
boiler blowdown water, and condensate from a medium Btu
coal gasification process. Although multiple injections may
have been made, the report sheets provided allowed only for
reporting single values. Thus, no single-operator precision data
can be calculated. See Table 2 for bias data and overall
precision data.
25.2 These data may not apply to waters of other
matrices, therefore, it is the responsibility of the analyst to
ensure the validity of this test method in a particular matrix.
26. Quality Control
known concentrations of iron that bracket the expected sample
known concentration, prior to analysis of samples, to calibrate
the instrument. The calibration correlation coefficient shall be
7
Supporting data are available from ASTM Headquarters. Request RR:D191102.
D 1068 03
TEST METHOD DPHOTOMETRIC
BATHOPHENANTHROLINE FOR BPA-REACTIVE
AND
HCl-REACTIVE FERROUS FORMS

method.
P 5 100 [A~Vs 1 V! 2 B Vs# / C V
27. Scope
27.1 This test method is applicable to the determination of
two ferrous iron forms, bathophenanthroline (BPA)-reactive
and hydrochloric acid (HCl)-reactive, in water having ferrous
iron concentrations between 40 and 1000 g/L. BPA-reactive
ferrous iron is essentially ionic Fe(II) and HCl-reactive ferrous
iron most likely represents total Fe(II).
reagent water and fly ash pond effluent water. It is the users
responsibility to assure the validity of this test method for
water of untested matrices.
(2)
where:
sample,
sample,
solution,
Guide D 5810, Table 2. If the percent recovery is not within
these limits, a matrix interference may be present in the sample
selected for spiking. Under these circumstances, one of the
following remedies must be employed: the matrix interference
must be removed, all samples in the batch must be analyzed by
a test method not affected by the matrix interference, or the

28.1 The analysis for BPA-reactive ferrous iron consists of
the addition of BPA to a buffered sample which forms a
red-colored complex with ferrous iron. The red ferrous complex is extracted from the aqueous solution with n-hexyl or
isoamyl alcohol and the intensity of its color is measured.
HCl-reactive ferrous iron is determined by the addition of
buffer and BPA to a previously acidified sample followed by
extraction and measurement of the red ferrous complex.
Maximum absorption of the complex occurs at 533 nm, and
Beers law is valid.
29. Significance and Use
29.1 The form of iron most directly toxic to aquatic life is
ferrous iron. This test method allows analysis for both ionic
and total ferrous iron in water with the sensitivity to detect the
trace concentrations normally found (40 g/L to 300 g/L).

30. Interferences
30.1 The metal ions other than ferrous iron which can form
a complex with bathophenanthroline are manganese, cadmium,
copper, zinc, cobalt, nickel, chromium, and ruthenium. The
complexation/extraction is carried out at pH 4.0 to 4.5 in the
presence of excess bathophenanthroline to achieve maximum
color development with Fe(II) and also to eliminate interferences of competing ions. In acid solution, all competing ions
form colorless complexes except ruthenium and cobalt which
are yellow, and none except the colorless copper complex are
extractable into an organic solvent. In a natural water sample
buffered at pH 4, cuprous copper is the only metal ion that
could potentially affect the measurement of ferrous iron; both
species compete for the complexing agent. However, excess
bathophenanthroline is present to complex both the ferrous iron
and cuprous copper in the sample.
26.7 Duplicate:
of the test method.
31. Apparatus
31.1 Photometer, a spectrophotometer or filter photometer
suitable for use at 533 nm and equipped with absorption cell
providing a light path length of 5 cm. Photometers, and
photometric practices prescribed in this test method, shall
conform to Practice E 60. Spectrophotometers shall conform to
Practice E 275.
7
D 1068 03
ferrous iron. Separate calibration curves must be prepared for
the BPA-reactive ferrous iron in HCI-reactive ferrous iron.
32. Reagents
32.1 Acetate Buffer Solution (NaC2H3O2) (pH 4.0)
Dissolve 10 g NaC2H3O2 in 100 mL of water. If necessary, add
glacial acetic acid or ammonium hydroxide (1 + 1) to adjust
pH to 4.0. Purify acetate buffer by adding BPA reagent and
extracting any complexed iron-BPA with hexanol. Allow 2 to 5
days for the organic and aqueous (acetate buffer) phases to
separate in a separatory funnel. Discard the alcohol layer.
32.2 Alcohol, n-hexyl (preferred) or isoamyl (alternative).
32.3 Alcohol, methyl or ethyl (95 %).
32.4 Ammonium Hydroxide Solution (1 + 1)Dilute 500
mL of ammonium hydroxide (NH4OH, sp gr 0.90) with 500
mL of water and mix.
32.5 Bathophenanthroline (BPA) Solution (0.668 g/L)
Dissolve 0.0668 g (4,7 diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline) in 100
mL of ethyl alcohol (95 %).
32.6 Hydrochloric Acid (HCl) (1 + 1)Cautiously add 1
volume of HCl (sp gr 1.19) to 1 volume of water and mix.
32.7 Iron Solution, Standard (1 mL = 10 g Fe)Dissolve
0.0702 g ferrous ammonium sulfate [Fe(NH4)2(SO4)26H2O]
into 700 mL of water that has had 20 mL of concentrated
H2SO4(sp gr 1.84) added to it. Dilute to 1 L with water. Make
up fresh every 24 to 48 h. Keep standard solution out of direct
sunlight.
32.8 Sulfuric Acid (1 + 9)Cautiously add 1 volume of
H2SO4(sp gr 1.84) to 9 volumes of water and mix.
35. Procedure
35.1 When testing for BPA-reactive ferrous iron, proceed
with 35.2 and 35.3, followed immediately by 35.8. When
testing for HCl-reactive ferrous iron, proceed to 35.4.
35.2 Transfer 5 mL of acetate buffer into a clean 125-mL
separatory funnel.
35.3 Pipet 50 mL of sample from the sampling device
directly into the buffer solution. The pipet tip must be at or
slightly beneath the liquid-air interface while the sample is
draining from the pipet. Swirl the separatory funnel to mix the
contents and then proceed to 35.8.
35.4 When testing for HCl-reactive ferrous iron, place 4 mL
of HCl (1 + 1) into a clean 125-mL separatory funnel.
35.5 Pipet 50 mL of sample from the sampling device
directly into the acid. The pipet tip must be at or slightly
beneath the liquid-air interface while the sample is draining
from the pipet. Swirl the separatory funnel to mix the contents
and then wait exactly 10 min.
35.6 Add 5 mL of acetate buffer. Swirl to mix.
35.7 Add an adequate volume (approximately 5 mL) of
NH4OH (1 + 1) to bring the pH between 4.0 and 4.5. Swirl to
mix.
35.8 Add 10 mL of bathophenanthroline solution to the
separatory funnel. Shake vigorously for 30 s.
35.9 Pipet either 10.0 mL of n-hexyl alcohol when testing
for BPA-reactive ferrous iron or 20.0 mL of n-hexyl alcohol
when testing for HCl-reactive ferrous iron to the separatory
funnel, and shake vigorously for 30 s.
35.10 Allow 3 to 5 min for the organic and water phases to
separate in the separatory funnel.
35.11 Open the stopcock of the separatory funnel and drain
off the aqueous (bottom) layer.
35.12 Pipet either 5.0 mL of methyl or ethyl alcohol when
testing for BPA-reactive ferrous iron or 10.0 mL of methyl or
ethyl alcohol when testing for HCl-reactive ferrous iron to the
red-colored organic phase.
35.13 Pour the organic phase through a suitable course filter
into a beaker to remove particulates which could interfere with
the absorbance measurement.
35.14 Measure the absorbance of the organic phase by
means of any applicable apparatus listed in 31.1 at 533 nm.
33. Sampling
33.1 Sampling shall be done with any device that minimizes
the effect of atmospheric oxygen on the sample, for instance, a
van-Dorn or hand-held and dipped bottle. Immediate analysis
is preferred, but up to 1 h can elapse between sampling and
analysis without significant change to forms of iron if the
sample is essentially free of air bubbles, is placed on ice, and
held in the dark until analysis. For frequent monitoring of
similar water matrices that are held up to 1 h, the analyst
should confirm for those particular waters that the holding time
used is inconsequential for iron analyses. A holding period up
to 24 h can probably occur without significant change to
ferrous iron forms by mixing reagents and complexing ferrous
iron forms in the field (35.2 to 35.11). Once the color is
formed, the complex shall be stable, without contact with air,
and out of direct sunlight. The analyst should verify for tested
waters that the holding time is inconsequential for iron
analyses.
34. Calibration
34.1 Prepare a series of working standards to cover the
expected range of ferrous iron concentration by diluting
appropriate volumes of standard iron solution (see 32.6). Add
0.25 mL of 1 + 9 sulfuric acid (see 32.8) per 100 mL of
solution as a preservative. Make up fresh every 24 h. Keep
working standards out of direct sunlight.
34.2 Proceed as directed in 35.1 to 35.14.
34.3 Simultaneously carry out a blank determination to
correct for iron in the reagents.
34.4 Prepare a calibration curve by plotting the absorbances
of the working standard solutions against the micrograms of
36. Calculation
36.1 Calculate the concentration of ferrous iron, in micrograms per litre as follows:
Ferrous Iron, g/L 5 ~W 3 1000!/S
where:
W = ferrous iron read from the calibration curve, micrograms, and
S = original sample used, millilitres.
8
D 1068 03
TABLE 3 Overall and Single Operator Precision DataPhotometric Bathophenanthroline
Amount
Added,
g/L
Overall
Precision, St,
g/L
Single Operator
Precision, So,
g/L
16.9
47.1
33.6
4.9
6.8
13.3
11.8
51.9
291.6
10.8
25.6
28.9
29.0
32.3
33.8
27.1
25.7
37.1
24.2
33.5
191.7
22.1
19.4
199.9
Reagent water
Type 1 (BPA reactive)
50
400
800
Reagent water
Type 1 (HCl reactive)
50
400
800
Water of choice
(BPA reactive)
50
400
800
Water of choice
(HCl reactive)
50
400
800
37.3 Recoveries of known amounts of ferrous iron from the

same water were as shown in Table 4.
37.4 This data may not apply to waters of untested matrices.
38. Quality Control
known concentrations of iron that bracket the expected sample
known concentration, prior to analysis of samples, to calibrate
the instrument. The calibration correlation coefficient shall be
analyzing a standard at the known concentration of one of the
calibration standards. The known concentration of a mid-range
standard should fall within 615 % of the known known
concentration.
instrument.
capability.
mid-range known concentration of iron. The matrix and
chemistry of the solution should be equivalent to the solution
used in the collaborative study. Each replicate must be taken
through the complete analytical test method including any
sample preservation and pretreatment steps. The replicates may
be interspersed with samples.
Tables 3 and 4. This study should be repeated until the
recoveries are within the limits given in Tables 3 and 4. If a
known concentration other than the recommended known
concentration is used, refer to Practice D 5847 for information
on applying the F test and t test in evaluating the acceptability
of the mean and standard deviation.
TABLE 4 Determination of Bias, Ferrous Iron-Photometric

Bathophenanthroline
Amount
Added,
g/L
Reagent water
Type I (BPA reactive)
50
400
800
Reagent water
Type 1 (HCl reactive)
50
400
800
Water of choice
(BPA reactive)
50
400
800
Water of choice
(HCl reactive)
50
400
800
Amount
Found,
g/L
6 Bias
6 %Bias
Statistically
Significant
(95 %
Confidence
Level)
41.2
427.8
801.3
8.8
+27.6
+1.3
17.6
+6.9
+0.2
No
No
No
48.3
413.3
998.0
1.7
+ 13.3
+198.0
3.4
+3.3
+24.8
No
No
No
64.0
399.5
806.6
+14.0
0.5
+6.6
+28.0
0.1
+0.8
No
No
No
64.1
422.3
770.2
+14.1
+22.3
29.8
+28.0
+5.6
3.7
No
No
No

37.1 The single-operator and overall precision of this test
method within its designated range varies with the quantity
being tested in accordance with the data given in Table 3.
37.2 The collaborative test was conducted by six laboratories with single operators analyzing reagent water and fly ash
pond effluent water containing ferrous iron concentrations of
50, 400, and 800 g/L. In some instances, not all six laboratories analyzed each sample type at every concentration level.
8
Supporting data are available from ASTM Headquarters. Request RR: D191128.
D 1068 03
concentration.
38.5 Method Blank:
method.
P 5 100 [A~Vs 1 V! 2 B Vs# / C V

Guide D 5810, Tables 3 and 4. If the percent recovery is not
within these limits, a matrix interference may be present in the
sample selected for spiking. Under these circumstances, one of
the following remedies must be employed: the matrix interference must be removed, all samples in the batch must be
analyzed by a test method not affected by the matrix interference, or the results must be qualified with an indication that
they do not fall within the performance criteria of the test
method.
38.7 Duplicate:
of the test method.
(3)
where:
sample,
sample,
solution,
39. Keywords
39.1 analysis; atomic absorption; chelation-extraction; colorimetric; flame; graphite furnace; iron; water
APPENDIXES
(Nonmandatory Information)
X1. NOTES ON SOLUBILIZING REFRACTORY IRON COMPOUNDS
solubilizing the iron in order to correct for iron contamination.

After such treatments the procedure for determination of
ferrous iron will no longer apply, since the relative quantities of
ferrous and ferric iron in the samples will be altered.
X1.1.1 Fusion MethodEvaporate the proper sized sample
to dryness in a clean porcelain crucible. Fuse the residue with
a minimum of potassium or sodium bisulfate (KHSO4 or
X1.1 Some forms of iron oxide are very resistant to the

dissolving action of hydrochloric acid. For example, a colloidal
form found in high pressure boiler condensate is very refractory. If it is suspected that a portion of the iron is insoluble with
the acid treatment given in the method, several techniques can
be used to yield the iron in soluble form. Blank determinations
should be made with all reagents used in any methods of
10
D 1068 03
NaHSO4). Cool and leach in 50 mL of water containing 2 mL
of hydrochloric acid (HCl, sp gr 1.19). Continue with filtration,
if necessary, and with the steps for color development.
X1.1.2 Perchloric-Acid TreatmentAfter addition of HCl
and evaporation to a small volume, add 3 mL of nitric acid
(HNO3, sp gr 1.42), 3 mL of perchloric acid (70 %) (see
X1.1.3), and 3 mL of sulfuric acid (H2SO4, sp gr 1.84).
Evaporate to dense white fumes, cool the beaker, and wash the
inside of the beaker carefully with water. Add a few drops of
formic acid, and fume again to dense clouds of sulfur trioxide
to remove the last traces of nitric acid. Cool, add water
carefully, and heat for a short time to dissolve easily soluble
salts. Cool, filter, if necessary, and continue with the steps for
color development.
sively with organic matter. The use of nitric acid prevents this vigorous
reaction.
X1.1.3 Thioglycolic Acid MethodWilson 9 has shown that

a sample made to 1 % (V/V) with thioglycolic acid and heated
for 30 min at 90C (195F) will completely dissolve unreactive iron. Pocock 10 confirms the finding and also eliminates
the use of hydroxylamine hydrochloride. Dilute the propersized portion of sample to 75 mL with water and acidify with
hydrochloric acid. Add 1 mL of thioglycolic acid and heat just
under boiling for 30 min. Cool, filter, if necessary, and continue
with the steps for color development.
9
Wilson, A. L., Analyst, Vol 89, June 1964, pp. 402, 410.
Pocock, F. J., paper presented at the 152nd National Meeting of the American
Chemical Society, New York City, Sept. 12, 1966.
10
NOTE X1.1Warning: Warm perchloric acid solutions react explo-
X2. RATIONALE FOR DISCONTINUATION OF TEST METHODS
X2.1 Photometric Methods (Orthophenanthroline and Bathophenanthroline):

X2.1.1 These test methods were discontinued in 1988. They
were last published in the 1988 Annual Book of ASTM
Standards, Vol 11.01.
X2.1.2 These test methods cover the determination of iron
in water for samples containing 0.05 to 3.0 mg/L (orthophenanthroline) and 0.02 to 0.2 mg/L (bathophenanthroline). Some
data relevant to these test methods are filed at ASTM Headquarters as research reports D19 - 52, D19 - 135, and D19 148.
X2.1.3 Summary of Test Methods:
X2.1.3.1 OrthophenanthrolineUndissolved iron and iron
oxides are put into solution by treatment with acids. If the iron
is not readily soluble in acids, fusion techniques are applied.
The iron is determined photometrically with 1,10phenanthroline (o-phenanthroline), which forms an orange-red
complex with ferrous iron. The intensity of the color produced

is proportional to the amount of ferrous iron in the water.
Hydroxylamine hydrochloride is added to reduce ferric iron to
the ferrous state when determining total and dissolved iron.
X2.1.3.2 BathophenanthrolineTotal iron is determined by
this test method. Undissolved iron and iron oxides are put into
solution by treatment with acid. The iron is reduced with
hydroxylamine hydrochloride and then reacted with 4,7diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline (bathophenanthroline). The red
ferrous complex is extracted from the aqueous solution with
n-hexyl or isoamyl alcohol and the intensity of its color is
measured. Maximum absorption of the complex occurs at 533
nm, and Beers law is valid.
X2.1.4 These test methods were discontinued because there
were insufficient laboratories interested in participating in a
collaborative study to obtain the necessary precision and bias
data as required by Practice D 2777.
SUMMARY OF CHANGES
This section identifies the location of selected changes to these test methods that have been incorporated since
the last issue. For the convenience of the user, Committee D19 has highlighted those changes that may impact
the use of these test methods. This section may also include descriptions of the changes or reasons for the
changes, or both.
(1) The QC sections were added to the test method.
(2) Sections 15.4 and 25.3 were added.
(3) Section references were updated.
11
D 1068 03
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An American National Standard

Standard Test Methods for

Applicable Methods of Committee D-19 on Water2

1.2 It is the users responsibility to ensure the validity of

4. Significance and Use

Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 03.05.

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard.

Methods D 1886), chromium (Test Methods D 1687), cobalt

TEST METHOD AATOMIC ABSORPTION, DIRECT

11. Reagents and Materials

11.2 Nitric Acid (sp gr 1.42)Concentrated nitric acid

8. Summary of Test Method

11.3 Nitric Acid (1 + 499)Add 1 volume of HNO3 (sp gr

cylinders can affect analytical results. The cylinder should be

NOTE 5Warning: Purified grade acetylene containing a special

16. Quality Control

NOTE 6If only dissolved iron is to be determined, start with 13.3.

13.2 Add 5 mL of HCl (sp gr 1.19) to each sample.

13.4 Cool and filter the samples through a suitable filter

TABLE 1 Determination of Bias, Atomic Absorption, Direct

Reagent Water Type II:

15. Precision and Bias 6

P 5 100 [A~Vs 1 V! 2 B Vs# / C V

NOTE 11Manual injection has been reported to cause widely scattered

21. Reagents and Materials

18. Summary of Test Method

20.2 Iron Hollow-Cathode LampA single-element lamp is

end of the batch run to ensure contamination was not a problem

NOTE 12If suspended material is not present, this filtration may be

23.6 Inject a measured aliquot of sample into the furnace

26.6.1 To check for interferences in the specific matrix

28. Summary of Test Method

NOTE 13Acceptable spike recoveries are dependent on the known

37.3 Recoveries of known amounts of ferrous iron from the

TABLE 4 Determination of Bias, Ferrous Iron-Photometric

37. Precision and Bias 8

Vs = volume (mL) of sample used, and

solubilizing the iron in order to correct for iron contamination.

X1.1 Some forms of iron oxide are very resistant to the

X1.1.3 Thioglycolic Acid MethodWilson 9 has shown that

NOTE X1.1Warning: Warm perchloric acid solutions react explo-

X2. RATIONALE FOR DISCONTINUATION OF TEST METHODS

X2.1 Photometric Methods (Orthophenanthroline and Bathophenanthroline):

complex with ferrous iron. The intensity of the color produced

(3) Section references were updated.

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