ASTM D8430-26

1.1 This test method covers the determination of ammonia nitrogen in surface water, ground water, drinking water, municipal and industrial wastewater, seawater, and potassium chloride soil extracts. A gas diffusion step eliminates the need for preliminary distillation.

1.2 The applicable range of this test method is 0.05 mg/L to 5 mg/L as ammonia nitrogen (NH₃-N) with an estimated method detection limit (MDL) of 0.02 mg NH₃-N/L. Extend the range to higher concentrations using sample dilution.

1.3 The analyst should be aware that precision and bias statements included may not necessarily apply to the sample being tested.

1.4 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.5 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.6 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.

5.1 This test method is used for measuring ammonia and ammonium ion in water samples and soil or plant extracts.

5.2 Ammonia compounds are widely distributed in the environment and may be applied as fertilizer, used as cleaning compounds, or used in water treatment.

5.3 Ammonia nitrogen compounds are found in high concentrations (10 mg/L to 50 mg/L as NH₃-N) in municipal influents. Since ammonia nitrogen can be toxic to aquatic life, the sewage treatment plant oxidizes ammonia nitrogen to nitrate. Ammonia nitrogen is often regulated in national pollutant discharge elimination system (NPDES) permits.