ASTM E508 is a standard test method for determining calcium and magnesium in iron ores, concentrates, and agglomerates in the mass fraction range of 0.05% to 5% calcium and 0.05% to 3% magnesium. Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (F-AAS) technique is used in this test method. These values are considered standard when expressed in SI units.
ASTM E508 Standard Test Method for Determination of Calcium and Magnesium in Iron Ores by Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry
What is ASTM E508?
What is the Scope of ASTM E508?
This test technique is designed to check whether impurity content conforms to compositional criteria. This test method is used as a reference method for compliance with compositional specifications for impurity content. It is assumed that the work would be done in a fully equipped laboratory with suitable waste disposal processes in place.
ASTM E508 Testing Procedure and Requirements
The analytical sample is pulverized until it passes through a 150-m sieve. With the addition of a small quantity of HNO3, the sample is dissolved in HCl. Any insoluble residue is filtered, processed for calcium and magnesium recovery, and reintroduced to the main solution after evaporation and dehydration. The solution is aspirated into the atomic absorption spectrometer’s flame. A nitrous oxide-acetylene burner is used for calcium, whereas an air-acetylene burner is chosen for magnesium. Atomic absorption spectrometry is used to measure the absorbed energy at the resonance line of the spectrum of calcium or magnesium and compared it to the calibration solutions of the two elements.
ASTM E508 Result Analysis and Interpretation
The calcium and magnesium mass fractions (percentages) are calculated as follows:
Calcium or magnesium, % = (A × 200)/ (B × 10 000)
Where:
A = calcium or magnesium per mL, μg
B = sample represented in the 200-mL volume of the final test solution, g
Updated on August 29, 2026
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