ASTM D6866-12 Biobased Content Determination of Solid, Liquid, and Gaseous Samples Using Radiocarbon Analysis

Scope:

The ASTM D6866-12 method produces gaseous samples from electrical utility boilers and waste incinerators with carbon-based components. These standard test methods are used and practiced in laboratories to trace the primary carbon isotope standards, and the stated uncertainties are valid. 

Test Procedure:

There are three methods to perform this test:-

Method A uses CO₂ Absorption: – Carbon dioxide is released from the sample and absorbed into a Counting solution.

Method B uses Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS) & Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry (IRMS) techniques: – The sample produces CO₂ within a vacuum manifold system where it is ultimately distilled, quantified in a calibrated volume, transferred to a quartz tube, and torch-sealed and delivered the stored CO₂ to AMA facility for final processing and analysis. 

Method C uses liquid scintillation counting (LSC) techniques: – The sample produces CO2 using LSC and then converts it to benzene. The test methods described here directly discriminate between product carbon resulting from contemporary carbon input and derived from fossil-based inputs.

Specimen Size:

Any product containing carbon-based components.

Data:

An acceptable SI unit deviation (tolerance) for the practice of these test methods is ±5%.