ASTM D4984-06(2011)

The measurement of carbon dioxide in natural gas is important, because of the gas quality specifications, the corrosive nature of carbon dioxide on pipeline materials, and the affects of carbon dioxide on utilization equipment.

This test method provides inexpensive field screening of carbon dioxide. The system design is such that it may be used by nontechnical personnel with a minimum of proper training.

1.1 This test method covers a rapid and simple field determination of carbon dioxide in natural gas pipelines. Available detector tubes provide a total measuring range of 100 ppm (parts per million) up to 60 % by volume, although the majority of applications will be on the lower end of this range (that is, under 5 %). At least one manufacturer provides a special kit for measurements from 10 to 100 % CO₂, but the normal 100-cc hand pump is not used. See Note 1.

Note 1—High-range carbon dioxide detector tubes will have measuring ranges in percent (%) CO₂, and low-range tubes will be in parts per million (ppm). To convert percent to ppm, multiply by 10 000 (1 % = 10 000 ppm).

1.2 The values stated in SI units are regarded as standard. The inch-pound units in parentheses are for information only.

1.3 This 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.