Field Evaluation of a standard Test Metod for Screenign Fuels in Soils at a Railroad Site

摘要

Americal Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Method D-5831-95 is a standard test metod for screening fuel contamination in soils. This method uses low-toxicity chemicals and can be used to screen organic-rich soils. It is also fast, easy, and inexpensive to perform. The screening method calls for extracting a sample of soil with isopropyl alcohol (IPA) folloiwng treatment with calcium oxide. The resulting extract is filtered, and the ultraviolet (UV) absorbance of the extract is measured at 254 nm. Depending on the information available concerning the contaminant fuel type and availability of the contaminant fuel for calibration, the method can be used to determine the approximate concentraton of fuel contamination, an estimated value of fuel contamination, or an indication of the presence or absence of fuel contamination Fuels containing aromatic compounds, such as diesel fuel and gasoline, as well as other aromatic-containign hydrocarbon materials, such as motor oil, crude oil, and coal oil can be determined.