ASTM D4980-89(2003)

These test methods are intended for use by those in the waste management industries to characterize waste streams by pH. These methods will identify those waste materials that may dictate a specific waste management procedure due to high acidity or alkalinity.

1.1 These test methods are used to determine the pH of a hazardous waste liquid, sludge, semisolid and solid.

1.2 Test Method A uses a wide-range pH paper for a rapid indication of pH to within about 1 pH unit.

1.3 Test Method B uses a pH meter to measure within about 0.1 pH unit.

1.4 These test methods are designed and intended as a preliminary test to complement the more sophisticated quantitative analytical techniques that may be used to determine pH. These test methods offer, to the user, the option and the ability to screen waste for potentially hazardous levels of acidity and alkalinity when the more sophisticated techniques are not available and the total waste composition is unknown.

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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific hazard information is given in Section 6.