Standard Methods: 4500-CN-F:  Cyanide in Water by Ion Selective Electrode

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Official Method Name
Test Method F. Cyanide-Selective Electrode
Current Revision
Standard Methods Online
Media
WATER
Instrumentation
Ion Selective Electrode
Method Subcategory
Inorganic
Method Source
  Standard Methods
Citation
  Standard Methods Online - Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater
Brief Method Summary
Cyanide in the alkaline distillate from the preliminary treatment procedures can be determined potentiometrically by using a cyanide-selective electrode in combination with a double-junction reference electrode and a pH meter having an expanded millivolt scale, or a specific ion meter.
Scope and Application
This method is applicable to surface waters, treated and untreated wastewaters, and industrial wastes.
Applicable Concentration Range
0.05 to 10 mg cyanide/L
Interferences
All known interferences eliminated or reduced by distillation
Quality Control Requirements
None given
Sample Handling
Add 0.1 g sodium arsenite in the presence of oxidizing agents. Add lead acetate or lead carbonate in the presence of sulfide. Filter sample before raising pH for stabilization. If samples cannot be anlayzed immediately, add NaOH pellets or a strong NaOH solution to raise sample pH to 12 to 12.5. Store in a closed, dark bottle in a cool place.
Maximum Holding Time
24 hours after raising pH to > 12
Relative Cost
Less than $50
Sample Preparation Methods