The ASTM has approved a new standard test method for measuring total oil and grease (TOG) and total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) concentration levels in water, which uses IR analysers.

The ASTM has approved a new standard test method for measuring total oil and grease (TOG) and total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) concentration levels in water. ASTM Method D 7066 - 04 covers the use of dimer/trimer of chlorotrifluoroethylene (S-316) for analysis of recoverable oil and grease and nonpolar material by an infrared determination. With the publication of this method, the ASTM has officially approved the use of S-316 as a replacement solvent for Freon and infrared analysis for the measurement of total oil and grease and total petroleum hydrocarbons in water.

It is expected that this method will be published as an ASTM reference method in the US EPA Federal Register, part 136.

The extraction procedure detailed in the new ASTM test method is basically the same as outlined in US EPA Methods 413.2 and 418.1, but using S-316 as the extracting solvent instead of Freon.

ASTM Method D 7066 - 04 is ideal for measuring samples having volatile constituents.

The InfraCal 10mm quartz cuvette holder analyser, Model CVH, manufactured by Wilks Enterprise, was one of the infrared instruments used for developing this new ASTM standard test method.

The Model CVH is an easy-to-use portable, fixed filter infrared analyser that quickly determines TOG or TPH levels in water samples in less than 10-15 minutes, including extraction procedure.

Concentration levels as low as 1-2 parts per million (ppm) to well over 5000 ppm can be measured.

Higher concentration levels can be measured by diluting the sample prior to analysis.

The Infracal Model CVH Analyser is rugged, weighs under 5 lbs, and operates from a 12 volt power supply - making it suitable for field or laboratory use.

It is direct reading and microprocessor-controlled with simple pushbutton controls for easy operation.

It requires minimal training or knowledge of infrared analytical techniques.

The analyser is ideal for both on and off shore applications, including wastewater analysis at refineries.