D5143-06 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide

ASTM D5143-06 (Reapproved 2015) defines a standardized laboratory procedure for the quantitative determination of seven specific nitroaromatic and nitramine explosive compounds in soil using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). This test method is critical for environmental site assessments, remediation monitoring, and forensic investigations involving energetic materials at military and industrial facilities.

📐 Scope and Target Analyte Spectrum

This test method is officially designated for the laboratory determination of explosive residues in soil. The procedure is validated for quantifying these compounds at concentrations ranging from trace detection limits up to percent-level contamination, covering a dynamic range suitable for both background screening and source zone characterization.

The standard explicitly targets the following seven energetic compounds, which represent a broad spectrum of military-grade explosives, propellant stabilizers, and environmental degradation products: