ASTM D6060-17
(Test Method)Standard Test Method for Sampling of Process Vents with a Portable Gas Chromatograph
Standard Test Method for Sampling of Process Vents with a Portable Gas Chromatograph
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This test method has been widely used to obtain mass balance data for process scrubbers, to determine the efficiency of VOC emission control equipment, and to obtain data to support air permit applications.
5.2 This test method will have applications to the Maximum Achievable Control Technology (MACT) Rule and may have applications to Compliance Assurance Monitoring verification required by the 1990 Clean Air Act Title III Amendments.
5.3 This test method, when used with Test Methods D3464 or D3154 or on-line process flow meter data, can be used to calculate detailed emission rate profiles for VOCs from process vents.
5.4 This test method provides nearly real time results that can detect process changes or upsets that may be missed using conventional sorbent tube or integrated gas sampling bag sampling.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method describes a method for direct sampling and analysis of process vents for volatile organic compound (VOC) vapors and permanent gases using a portable gas chromatograph (GC).
1.2 This test method is applicable to analysis of permanent gases such as oxygen (O2), carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrogen (N2), as well as vapors from organic compounds with boiling points up to 125°C.
1.3 The detection limits obtained will depend on the portable gas chromatograph and detector used. Detectors available include but are not limited to thermal conductivity, photoionization, argon ionization, and electron capture. For instruments equipped with thermal conductivity detectors, typical detection limits are one to two parts per million by volume (ppm(v)) with an applicable concentration range to high percent by volume levels. For instruments with photoionization detectors detection limit of one to ten parts per billion by volume (ppb(v)) are obtainable with a concentration range from 1000 to 2000 ppm(v). The argon ionization detector has an achievable detection limit of one (ppb(v)), while the electron capture detector has an achievable detection limit of one part per trillion by volume (ppt(v)) for chlorinated compounds.
1.4 The applicability of this test method should be evaluated for each VOC by determining stability, reproducibility, and linearity.
1.5 The appropriate concentration range must also be determined for each VOC, as the range will depend on the vapor pressure of the particular VOC.
1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.
1.7 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. Refer to Section 8 on Hazards for additional safety precautions.
1.8 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.
General Information
- Status
- Published
- Publication Date
- 30-Sep-2017
- Technical Committee
- D22 - Air Quality
- Drafting Committee
- D22.03 - Ambient Atmospheres and Source Emissions
Relations
- Effective Date
- 01-Oct-2017
- Effective Date
- 01-Sep-2020
- Effective Date
- 15-Mar-2020
- Effective Date
- 15-Oct-2015
- Effective Date
- 01-Jul-2015
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2014
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2014
- Effective Date
- 15-Jan-2014
- Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2010
- Refers
ASTM D3464-96(2007) - Standard Test Method for Average Velocity in a Duct Using a Thermal Anemometer - Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2007
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2007
- Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2006
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2005
- Effective Date
- 01-Jan-2001
- Effective Date
- 01-Jan-2001
Overview
ASTM D6060-17: Standard Test Method for Sampling of Process Vents with a Portable Gas Chromatograph provides a guideline for the direct sampling and analysis of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and permanent gases emitted from process vents. Developed by ASTM International, this standard ensures reliable and near real-time identification of organic vapors and gases, supporting environmental compliance and process optimization in industrial settings. The procedure is applicable for monitoring key atmospheric gases such as oxygen, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, as well as various VOCs with boiling points up to 125°C.
ASTM D6060-17 enhances traditional emission monitoring by allowing on-site analysis using portable gas chromatography (GC), delivering quick results that help operators detect process changes and upsets that may not be captured by conventional sorbent tube or gas bag sampling.
Key Topics
- Direct VOC and Gas Sampling: Methods for measuring VOCs and permanent gases in process vents using a portable GC, reducing sample transfer time and potential sample loss.
- Detection Capabilities: Applicability to various detector types, including thermal conductivity, photoionization, argon ionization, and electron capture, widening the range of detectable compounds and concentrations.
- Real-Time Monitoring: Offers near real-time data, supporting immediate response to variations or upsets in process conditions.
- Application in Environmental Compliance: Supports data collection for mass balance, air permit applications, compliance with the U.S. Clean Air Act Amendments, and Maximum Achievable Control Technology (MACT) Rule requirements.
- Method Precision and Calibration: Guidance on preparing and calibrating the GC and sampling train, performing regular calibrations, and quality control checks to ensure measurement reliability and accuracy.
- Data Integration: Details on using data loggers, spreadsheets, and process flow measurements to calculate emission rates and optimize control equipment such as scrubbers.
Applications
ASTM D6060-17 is widely used for:
- Emission Monitoring: Direct measurement of VOC emissions from industrial process vents, essential for reporting and compliance with air quality regulations.
- Performance Evaluation of Control Equipment: Calculation of inlet and outlet VOC concentrations in scrubbers, oxidizers, or other emission control devices for efficiency assessments.
- Process Optimization: Near real-time monitoring helps identify process changes or upsets, enabling rapid operational adjustments to maintain emission targets.
- Environmental Permitting: Data generated supports air permitting applications by providing accurate emission profiles.
- Regulatory Compliance: Helps facilities meet requirements under the Clean Air Act Title III and MACT standards.
- Research and Development: Used by environmental scientists and engineers for studying emission sources and optimizing mitigation technologies.
Related Standards
For comprehensive and accurate implementation, ASTM D6060-17 references and complements several other ASTM and industry standards, including:
- ASTM D1356: Terminology Relating to Sampling and Analysis of Atmospheres
- ASTM D3154: Test Method for Average Velocity in a Duct (Pitot Tube Method)
- ASTM D3464: Test Method for Average Velocity in a Duct Using a Thermal Anemometer
- ASTM E355: Practice for Gas Chromatography Terms and Relationships
- NFPA 70: National Electrical Code (for equipment in hazardous locations)
- NFPA 496: Standard for Purged and Pressurized Enclosures for Electrical Equipment
Using ASTM D6060-17 in conjunction with these standards ensures a robust, reliable, and regulatory-compliant approach to process vent sampling and emission monitoring.
Keywords: ASTM D6060-17, process vent sampling, portable gas chromatograph, VOC emissions, emission monitoring, air quality, environmental compliance, gas chromatography, MACT, Clean Air Act, emission control, real-time monitoring, industrial air emissions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM D6060-17 is a standard published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Test Method for Sampling of Process Vents with a Portable Gas Chromatograph". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 5.1 This test method has been widely used to obtain mass balance data for process scrubbers, to determine the efficiency of VOC emission control equipment, and to obtain data to support air permit applications. 5.2 This test method will have applications to the Maximum Achievable Control Technology (MACT) Rule and may have applications to Compliance Assurance Monitoring verification required by the 1990 Clean Air Act Title III Amendments. 5.3 This test method, when used with Test Methods D3464 or D3154 or on-line process flow meter data, can be used to calculate detailed emission rate profiles for VOCs from process vents. 5.4 This test method provides nearly real time results that can detect process changes or upsets that may be missed using conventional sorbent tube or integrated gas sampling bag sampling. SCOPE 1.1 This test method describes a method for direct sampling and analysis of process vents for volatile organic compound (VOC) vapors and permanent gases using a portable gas chromatograph (GC). 1.2 This test method is applicable to analysis of permanent gases such as oxygen (O2), carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrogen (N2), as well as vapors from organic compounds with boiling points up to 125°C. 1.3 The detection limits obtained will depend on the portable gas chromatograph and detector used. Detectors available include but are not limited to thermal conductivity, photoionization, argon ionization, and electron capture. For instruments equipped with thermal conductivity detectors, typical detection limits are one to two parts per million by volume (ppm(v)) with an applicable concentration range to high percent by volume levels. For instruments with photoionization detectors detection limit of one to ten parts per billion by volume (ppb(v)) are obtainable with a concentration range from 1000 to 2000 ppm(v). The argon ionization detector has an achievable detection limit of one (ppb(v)), while the electron capture detector has an achievable detection limit of one part per trillion by volume (ppt(v)) for chlorinated compounds. 1.4 The applicability of this test method should be evaluated for each VOC by determining stability, reproducibility, and linearity. 1.5 The appropriate concentration range must also be determined for each VOC, as the range will depend on the vapor pressure of the particular VOC. 1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard. 1.7 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. Refer to Section 8 on Hazards for additional safety precautions. 1.8 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.
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 5.1 This test method has been widely used to obtain mass balance data for process scrubbers, to determine the efficiency of VOC emission control equipment, and to obtain data to support air permit applications. 5.2 This test method will have applications to the Maximum Achievable Control Technology (MACT) Rule and may have applications to Compliance Assurance Monitoring verification required by the 1990 Clean Air Act Title III Amendments. 5.3 This test method, when used with Test Methods D3464 or D3154 or on-line process flow meter data, can be used to calculate detailed emission rate profiles for VOCs from process vents. 5.4 This test method provides nearly real time results that can detect process changes or upsets that may be missed using conventional sorbent tube or integrated gas sampling bag sampling. SCOPE 1.1 This test method describes a method for direct sampling and analysis of process vents for volatile organic compound (VOC) vapors and permanent gases using a portable gas chromatograph (GC). 1.2 This test method is applicable to analysis of permanent gases such as oxygen (O2), carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrogen (N2), as well as vapors from organic compounds with boiling points up to 125°C. 1.3 The detection limits obtained will depend on the portable gas chromatograph and detector used. Detectors available include but are not limited to thermal conductivity, photoionization, argon ionization, and electron capture. For instruments equipped with thermal conductivity detectors, typical detection limits are one to two parts per million by volume (ppm(v)) with an applicable concentration range to high percent by volume levels. For instruments with photoionization detectors detection limit of one to ten parts per billion by volume (ppb(v)) are obtainable with a concentration range from 1000 to 2000 ppm(v). The argon ionization detector has an achievable detection limit of one (ppb(v)), while the electron capture detector has an achievable detection limit of one part per trillion by volume (ppt(v)) for chlorinated compounds. 1.4 The applicability of this test method should be evaluated for each VOC by determining stability, reproducibility, and linearity. 1.5 The appropriate concentration range must also be determined for each VOC, as the range will depend on the vapor pressure of the particular VOC. 1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard. 1.7 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. Refer to Section 8 on Hazards for additional safety precautions. 1.8 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.
ASTM D6060-17 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 71.040.50 - Physicochemical methods of analysis. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ASTM D6060-17 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM D6060-96(2009), ASTM D1356-20a, ASTM D1356-20, ASTM D1356-15a, ASTM D1356-15, ASTM D1356-14b, ASTM D1356-14a, ASTM D1356-14, ASTM D1356-05(2010), ASTM D3464-96(2007), ASTM E355-96(2007), ASTM D3154-00(2006), ASTM D1356-05, ASTM E355-96(2001), ASTM E355-96. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ASTM D6060-17 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
Standards Content (Sample)
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.
Designation: D6060 − 17
Standard Test Method for
Sampling of Process Vents with a Portable Gas
Chromatograph
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D6060; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision.Anumber in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope 1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
1.1 Thistestmethoddescribesamethodfordirectsampling
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
and analysis of process vents for volatile organic compound
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
(VOC) vapors and permanent gases using a portable gas
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
chromatograph (GC).
RefertoSection8onHazardsforadditionalsafetyprecautions.
1.2 This test method is applicable to analysis of permanent
1.8 This international standard was developed in accor-
gases such as oxygen (O ), carbon dioxide (CO ) and nitrogen
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
2 2
(N ), as well as vapors from organic compounds with boiling
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
points up to 125°C.
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
1.3 The detection limits obtained will depend on the por-
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
tablegaschromatographanddetectorused.Detectorsavailable
include but are not limited to thermal conductivity,
2. Referenced Documents
photoionization, argon ionization, and electron capture. For
2.1 ASTM Standards:
instruments equipped with thermal conductivity detectors,
D1356Terminology Relating to Sampling and Analysis of
typical detection limits are one to two parts per million by
Atmospheres
volume (ppm(v)) with an applicable concentration range to
D3154Test Method for Average Velocity in a Duct (Pitot
high percent by volume levels. For instruments with photoion-
Tube Method)
ization detectors detection limit of one to ten parts per billion
D3464Test Method forAverage Velocity in a Duct Using a
by volume (ppb(v)) are obtainable with a concentration range
Thermal Anemometer
from 1000 to 2000 ppm(v). The argon ionization detector has
an achievable detection limit of one (ppb(v)), while the E355PracticeforGasChromatographyTermsandRelation-
ships
electron capture detector has an achievable detection limit of
one part per trillion by volume (ppt(v)) for chlorinated com-
2.2 Other Document:
pounds.
NFPA 70National Electrical Code
NFPA496Standard for Purged and Pressurized Enclosures
1.4 Theapplicabilityofthistestmethodshouldbeevaluated
for Electrical Equipment
for each VOC by determining stability, reproducibility, and
linearity.
3. Terminology
1.5 The appropriate concentration range must also be deter-
3.1 Definitions—For the definition of terms used in this test
mined for each VOC, as the range will depend on the vapor
method, refer to Terminology D1356 and Practice E355.
pressure of the particular VOC.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
3.2.1 portable,n—referstogaschromatographwithinternal
standard. No other units of measurement are included in this
battery,internalsamplepump,andinternal/rechargeablecarrier
standard.
gas supply cylinder.
1 2
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D22 on Air For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Quality and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D22.03 on Ambient contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
Atmospheres and Source Emissions. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Current edition approved Oct. 1, 2017. Published October 2017. Originally the ASTM website.
approved in 1996. Last previous edition approved in 2009 as D6060–96 (2009). Available from National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 1 Batterymarch
DOI: 10.1520/D6060-17. Park, Quincy, MA 02169-7471, http://www.nfpa.org.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D6060 − 17
4. Summary of Test Method 5.4 This test method provides nearly real time results that
can detect process changes or upsets that may be missed using
4.1 One end of a sampling line (typically 6 mm outside
conventional sorbent tube or integrated gas sampling bag
diameter TFE-fluorocarbon tubing) is connected to a tee in a
sampling.
processventandtheotherendtoacondensationtrap(see6.1),
which is connected to a gas sampling bulb. The outlet of the
6. Interferences
gas sampling bulb is connected to a sampling pump set at a
6.1 Water or liquid in the process line will plug the sample
flow rate of 0.5 to 2 L/min. The sample line from the portable
lineofthegaschromatograph,sincetheinjectionvalveofmost
gas chromatograph is inserted through the septum port of the
portable GCs is not heated. The condensation trap is designed
gassamplingbulb.Atuserselectedintervals,theinternalpump
toprotecttheportablegaschromatographifliquidsarepresent
of the portable gas chromatograph is activated and process
or occur during process upset.
vapors drawn through the injection valve of the gas chromato-
graph and analyzed. 6.2 Interferences sometimes result from analytes having
similar retention times during gas chromatography.
5. Significance and Use
6.3 General approaches which can be followed to resolve
such interferences are given below:
5.1 This test method has been widely used to obtain mass
6.3.1 Change the type of column, length of column, or
balance data for process scrubbers, to determine the efficiency
operating conditions.
of VOC emission control equipment, and to obtain data to
6.3.2 Analyze using a nonpolar methyl silicone column
support air permit applications.
which separates according to boiling point of the compounds
5.2 ThistestmethodwillhaveapplicationstotheMaximum
and a polar column whose separations are influenced by the
Achievable Control Technology (MACT) Rule and may have 4
polarity of the compounds.
applications to ComplianceAssurance Monitoring verification
6.3.3 Use a mass spectrometer to verify the identity of
required by the 1990 Clean Air Act Title III Amendments.
peaks.
5.3 This test method, when used with Test Methods D3464
or D3154 or on-line process flow meter data, can be used to
Thecolumnsinmostportablegaschromatographsareeasilyinterchanged.One
calculatedetailedemissionrateprofilesforVOCsfromprocess
manufacturer has an instrument that simultaneously injects onto two user selected
vents. column modules.
FIG. 1 Schematic of Process Sampling Equipment
D6060 − 17
7. Apparatus Methods of Air Sampling and Analysis for applicable guide-
lines for all of these gas standard preparation techniques.
7.1 A schematic drawing of a typical sampling setup is
9.2 Althoughstandardsofsomecompoundspreparedingas
shown in Fig. 1. The laptop computer may be physically
located near the gas chromatograph as shown in Fig. 1,or bags are very stable, others show sample loss during storage
due to permeation, reactivity, or surface adsorption. As a
located remotely. In addition, some portable gas chromato-
graphs have an integral computer. Use a short piece of 1.5 mm general guideline prepare standards fresh daily.
outsidediameterby1mminsidediameterstainlesssteeltubing
9.3 Prepare at least two reference standards containing
as the sampling probe line from the gas sampling bulb to the
varying concentrations of each component. Bracket the ex-
GC inlet.
pected concentrations of each component in the testing of the
process vent, if known.
7.2 Portable Gas Chromatograph (GC), with a thermal
9.3.1 Connect the gas sampling bag to the inlet or the
conductivity, photoionization, argon ionization, electron cap-
calibration port of the GC and initiate the analysis. Perform at
ture or other appropriate detector, internal/rechargeable carrier
least triplicate injections of each standard.
gas supply, and internal sampling pump.
9.3.2 The quantitative response (calibration) of a GC detec-
7.2.1 Portable gas chromatographs are typically equipped
tor may be determined by the measurement of the peak height
with particulate filters which should be replaced periodically.
or peak area using the Data System or electronic integrator.
7.3 Data Logger, device used for automated storage of
9.3.3 Following the calibration, analyze a gas sampling bag
output from a flow measurement device.
containing air only (blank). If carryover is >1% increase the
7.4 Gas Sampling Bulb, 125 mLcapacity with septum port. sampling period (internal GC pump time). Typical sampling
periods are 20 to 45 s, however, this parameter must be
7.5 Personal Sampling Pump.
optimized for each VOC analyzed.
7.6 Gas-Tight Syringe, 1, 10, 100, 500 mLcapacity or other
convenient sizes for preparing standards.
10. Procedure
7.7 Microlitre Syringes, 10, 25, 50, 100 µL or other conve- 10.1 Preparation of the Gas Chromatograph:
nient sizes for preparing standards.
10.1.1 Fill the internal carrier gas reservoir as described by
the manufacturer.
7.8 Gas Sampling Bags, for preparation of gas standards.
10.1.2 Select a carrier gas flow or column pressure and
Bags constructed of various polymer films, such as polyvi-
column temperature compatible with the column selected for
nylidene fluoride, fluorinated ethylenepropylene,
the separation.
(tetrafluoroethylene)-fluorocarbon, polyvinylidene chloride,
10.1.3 Calibrate the chromatographic system to determine
polyethylene and mixed polymer multilayers, with a variety of
the relative retention times and response of the various
fittings and capacities (typically 1 to 200 L) are available.
compounds of interest.
7.9 ThermalAnemometer,VaneAnemometer,MassFlowme-
10.2 Preparation of the Sampling Train:
ter or Pitot Tube, for measuremen
...
This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: D6060 − 96 (Reapproved 2009) D6060 − 17
Standard Practice Test Method for
Sampling of Process Vents with a Portable Gas
Chromatograph
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D6060; 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 (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope
1.1 This practice test method describes a method for direct sampling and analysis of process vents for volatile organic
compound (VOC) vapors and permanent gases using a portable gas chromatograph (GC).
1.2 This practice test method is applicable to analysis of permanent gases such as oxygen (O ), carbon dioxide (CO ) and
2 2
nitrogen (N ), as well as vapors from organic compounds with boiling points up to 125°C.
1.3 The detection limits obtained will depend on the portable gas chromatograph and detector used. Detectors available include
but are not limited to thermal conductivity, photoionization, argon ionization, and electron capture. For instruments equipped with
thermal conductivity detectors, typical detection limits are one to two parts per million by volume (ppm(v)) with an applicable
concentration range to high percent by volume levels. For instruments with photoionization detectors detection limit of one to ten
parts per billion by volume (ppb(v)) are obtainable with a concentration range from 1000 to 2000 ppm(v). The argon ionization
detector has an achievable detection limit of one (ppb(v)), while the electron capture detector has an achievable detection limit of
one part per trillion by volume (ppt(v)) for chlorinated compounds.
1.4 The applicability of this practice test method should be evaluated for each VOC by determining stability, reproducibility,
and linearity.
1.5 The appropriate concentration range must also be determined for each VOC, as the range will depend on the vapor pressure
of the particular VOC.
1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.
1.7 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 safety, health, and healthenvironmental practices and determine the
applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Refer to Section 8 on Hazards for additional safety precautions.
1.8 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.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D1356 Terminology Relating to Sampling and Analysis of Atmospheres
D3154 Test Method for Average Velocity in a Duct (Pitot Tube Method)
D3464 Test Method for Average Velocity in a Duct Using a Thermal Anemometer
E355 Practice for Gas Chromatography Terms and Relationships
2.2 Other Document:
NFPA 70 National Electrical Code
NFPA 496 Standard for Purged and Pressurized Enclosures for Electrical Equipment
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D22 on Air Quality and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D22.03 on Ambient Atmospheres
and Source Emissions.
Current edition approved Oct. 1, 2009Oct. 1, 2017. Published December 2009October 2017. Originally approved in 1996. Last previous edition approved in 20012009
as D6060 – 96 (2001).(2009). DOI: 10.1520/D6060-96R09.10.1520/D6060-17.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Available from National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02169-7471, http://www.nfpa.org.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D6060 − 17
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—For the definition of terms used in this practice, refer to Terminology D1356 and Practice E355.
3.1 Definitions—For the definition of terms used in this test method, refer to Terminology D1356 and Practice E355.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 portable—portable, n—refers to gas chromatograph with internal battery, internal sample pump, and internal/rechargeable
carrier gas supply cylinder.
4. Summary of PracticeTest Method
4.1 One end of a sampling line (typically 6 mm ( ⁄4 in.) outside diameter TFE-fluorocarbon tubing) is connected to a tee in a
process vent and the other end to a condensation trap (see 6.1), which is connected to a gas sampling bulb. The outlet of the gas
sampling bulb is connected to a sampling pump set at a flow rate of 0.5 to 2 L/min. The sample line from the portable gas
chromatograph is inserted through the septum port of the gas sampling bulb. At user selected intervals, the internal pump of the
portable gas chromatograph is activated and process vapors drawn through the injection valve of the gas chromatograph and
analyzed.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 This practice test method has been widely used to obtain mass balance data for process scrubbers, to determine the efficiency
of VOC emission control equipment, and to obtain data to support air permit applications.
5.2 This practice test method will have applications to the MACT Maximum Achievable Control Technology (MACT) Rule and
may have applications to Compliance Assurance Monitoring verification required by the 1990 Clean Air Act Title III Amendments.
5.3 This practice, test method, when used with Test Methods D3464 or D3154 or on-line process flow meter data, can be used
to calculate detailed emission rate profiles for VOCs from process vents.
5.4 This practice test method provides nearly real time results that can detect process changes or upsets that may be missed using
conventional sorbent tube or integrated gas sampling bag sampling.
6. Interferences
6.1 Water or liquid in the process line will plug the sample line of the gas chromatograph, since the injection valve of most
portable GCs is not heated. The condensation trap is designed to protect the portable gas chromatograph if liquids are present or
occur during process upset.
FIG. 1 Schematic of Process Sampling Equipment
D6060 − 17
6.2 Interferences sometimes result from analytes having similar retention times during gas chromatography.
6.3 General approaches which can be followed to resolve such interferences are given below:
6.3.1 Change the type of column, length of column, or operating conditions.
6.3.2 Analyze using a nonpolar methyl silicone column which separates according to boiling point of the compounds and a polar
column whose separations are influenced by the polarity of the compounds.
6.3.3 Use a mass spectrometer to verify the identity of peaks.
7. Apparatus
7.1 A schematic drawing of a typical sampling setup is shown in Fig. 1. The laptop computer may be physically located near
the gas chromatograph as shown in Fig. 1, or located remotely. In addition, some portable gas chromatographs have an integral
computer. Use a short piece of 1.5 mm ( ⁄16 in.) outside diameter by 1 mm (0.04 in.) inside diameter stainless steel tubing as the
sampling probe line from the gas sampling bulb to the GC inlet.
7.2 Portable Gas Chromatograph (GC), with a thermal conductivity, photoionization, argon ionization, electron capture or other
appropriate detector, internal/rechargeable carrier gas supply, and internal sampling pump.
7.2.1 Portable gas chromatographs are typically equipped with particulate filters which should be replaced periodically.
7.3 Data Logger, device used for automated storage of output from a flow measurement device.
7.4 Gas Sampling Bulb, 125 mL capacity with septum port.
7.5 Personal Sampling Pump.
7.6 Gas-Tight Syringe, 1, 10, 100, 500 mL capacity or other convenient sizes for preparing standards.
7.7 Microlitre Syringes, 10, 25, 50, 100 μL or other convenient sizes for preparing standards.
7.8 Gas Sampling Bags, for preparation of gas standards. Bags constructed of various polymer films, such as polyvinylidene
fluoride, fluorinated ethylenepropylene, (tetrafluoroethylene)-fluorocarbon, polyvinylidene chloride, polyethylene and mixed
polymer multilayers, with a variety of fittings and capacities (typically 1 to 200 L) are available.
7.9 Thermal Anemometer, Vane Anemometer, Mass Flowmeter or Pitot Tube, for measurement of vent velocity.
7.10 Condensation Trap, Filtering Flask, 250 or 500 mL polypropylene fitted with a stopper.
1 3
7.11 TFE-Fluorocarbon Tubing, 6 mm ( ⁄4 in.) outside diameter by 5 mm ( ⁄16 in.) inside diameter.
7.12 Data System, an integral or external computer used for control of operation of a portable gas chromatograph, data
reduction, and storage of results.
8. Hazards
8.1 See NFPA 496 for use of electrical equipment in areas classified as hazardous by Article 500 of NFPA 70, National Electrical
Code. 70. A purged and pressurized enclosure is required.
9. Calibration
9.1 Suitable knowns analytes at known concentrations may be prepared by the filling of a gas sampling bag with a known
volume of air. Inject a known volume of gas or liquid containing the analyte(s) of interest into the bag and knead the bag to mix.
Permeation tubes or rigid chambers may also be used for preparation of gas standards. Reference standards in compressed gas
cylinders certified as to concentration and analytic uncertainty by the manufacturer are also available. Refer to Methods of Air
Sampling and Analysis for applicable guidelines for all of these gas standard preparation techniques.
9.2 Although standards of some compounds prepared in gas bags are very stable, others show sample loss during storage due
to permeation permeation, reactivity, or surface adsorption. As a general guideline prepare standards fresh daily.
9.3 Prepare at least two reference standards containing varying concentrations of each component. Bracket the expected
concentrations of each component in the testing of the process vent, if known.
9.3.1 Connect the gas sampling bag to the inlet or the calibration port of the GC and initiate the analysis. Perform a
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