1.1This practice covers different means by which petroleum product and lubricant samples may be prepared before the measurement of their elemental content using different analytical techniques.

1.2This practice includes only the basic steps for generally encountered sample types. Anything out of the ordinary may require special procedures. See individual test methods for instructions to handle such situations.

1.3This practice is not a substitute for a thorough understanding of the actual test method to be used, caveats the test method contains, and additional sample preparation that may be required.

1.4The user should not expand the scope of the test methods to materials or concentrations outside the scope of the test methods being used without thoroughly understanding the implications of such deviations.

1.5This practice may also be applicable to sample preparation of non-petroleum based bio-fuels for elemental analysis. Currently, work is ongoing in ASTM Subcommittee D02.03; as information becomes available, it will be added to this standard.

1.6The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.7This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.