ASTM D2914-15 (2022) PDF

Full title and description

Standard Test Methods for Sulfur Dioxide Content of the Atmosphere (West‑Gaeke Method). This ASTM test method (designation D2914‑15, reapproved 2022) specifies bubbler collection and colorimetric determination procedures for measuring sulfur dioxide (SO2) in ambient and workplace atmospheres using the West‑Gaeke reaction.

Abstract

ASTM D2914‑15 (reapproved 2022) provides manual and automated procedures (Method A and Method B) for collecting and analysing SO2 from air samples by impingement in absorbing solution followed by colorimetric determination. The methods are applicable across a practical working concentration range, include guidance on sampling periods and detection limits, and note reagent/health precautions for some reagents used in the procedure.

General information

• Status: Active (current test method, reapproved 2022).
• Publication date: Original edition 2015; reapproved 2022 (designation shown as D2914‑15 (2022)).
• Publisher: ASTM International.
• ICS / categories: 13.040.20 – Ambient atmospheres.
• Edition / version: D2914‑15 (reapproved 2022).
• Number of pages: 15 pages.

Scope

These test methods cover the bubbler (impinger) collection and subsequent colorimetric determination of sulfur dioxide (SO2) in ambient or workplace air. The procedures are applicable over roughly 25 µg/m³ to 1000 µg/m³ (0.01 to 0.4 ppmv) in typical sample volumes, and can be adapted to lower or higher concentrations by changing sampled air volume or dilution as described in the standard. Sampling durations from about 30 minutes up to 24 hours are covered. The standard describes two determination approaches (Method A — higher sensitivity; Method B — pH dependent and suitable for wider spectrometer bandwidths).

Key topics and requirements

• Bubbler/impinger sampling design and recommended sampling volumes and flow rates.
• Colorimetric determination (West‑Gaeke reaction) including recommended reagents and spectrophotometric measurement.
• Method A (higher sensitivity, higher blank) and Method B (manual, pH‑dependent) and guidance on when to use each.
• Working analytical range and Beer's law applicability (typical solution concentration ranges and instrument calibration guidance).
• Detection limits and examples: lower limit of detection reported around 0.075 µg SO2/mL (equivalent to ≈25 µg/m³ in a 30‑min sample).
• Quality control, blanks, and safety/handling notes for reagents used in the method.

Typical use and users

Used by environmental testing laboratories, air‑quality monitoring organizations, industrial hygiene teams, research laboratories and regulatory compliance units for measuring ambient and workplace SO2 concentrations where wet chemical/colorimetric methods are appropriate or required.

Related standards

Related ASTM and reference documents include earlier and superseded editions of D2914 (1995, 2001, 2007), and other D22 committee methods for atmospheric gases such as ASTM D2913 (mercaptan content), ASTM D1607 (nitrogen dioxide methods) and guides for sample collection and preservation (examples include ASTM D5012). These related documents provide complementary procedures, definitions and sample‑handling guidance.

Keywords

sulfur dioxide; SO2; West‑Gaeke; bubbler; impinger; colorimetric; ambient air monitoring; workplace air; air quality; ASTM D2914; test methods.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: ASTM D2914‑15 (reapproved 2022) is a set of standardized test methods for measuring sulfur dioxide content in air using the West‑Gaeke bubbler/colorimetric technique.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers sample collection by bubblers/impingers and colorimetric laboratory determination of SO2, including two analytic methods (A and B), applicable concentration ranges, sampling durations (≈30 min to 24 h) and performance/quality control guidance.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Environmental testing laboratories, air‑quality monitoring agencies, industrial hygienists, regulatory bodies and researchers who require or prefer wet chemical/colorimetric determinations of SO2.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: The 2015 version (D2914‑15) was reapproved in 2022 and remains the current active ASTM designation as shown by the reapproval notice; earlier editions (1995, 2001, 2007) have been superseded by the 2015 edition.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: It is part of the ASTM D22 committee suite of ambient atmosphere and emissions test methods; related standards cover other gaseous analytes and sample‑handling guides issued by the same committee.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: sulfur dioxide, SO2, West‑Gaeke, bubbler/impinger, colorimetric, ambient air, workplace air, ASTM D2914.