Method ID-211

Sodium Azide and Hydrazoic Acid in Workplace Atmospheres


This method describes the sample collection and analysis of sodium azide and hydrazoic acid.  Air samples are collected using a calibrated sampling pump and impregnated silica gel (ISG) tube. A pre-filter is used to collect particulate azide.  The analysis is performed using ion chromatography (IC) with ultraviolet (UV) detection.

In moisture conditions, sodium azide is rapidly converted to hydrazoic acid.  Also note that the method cannot distinguish different azide compounds. 

If the samples are going to be kept in the field at room temperature for more than 2 days, the method recommends that the PVC pre-filters are put into individuals vials and add 5mL of the sample desorbing solution (a mixture of  0.9 mM sodium carbonate and 0.9 mM sodium bicarbonate). Keep the sample refrigerated until shipment to the laboratory.


(OSHA)

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Method Data

Hold Times, Preservatives, Preps, Collection, Analytical & Documentation
Holding Time:   Ship samples to the laboratory as soon as possible after collection. Samples stored at room temperature need to be analyzed within 10 days.
Preservatives:   Store and ship samples refrigerated (4°C).
Required Preps:   Impregnated silica gel tube and PVC pre-filter
Collection Method:   Recommended sampling: 1 L/minute for minimum of 5 minutes.
Analytical Methodology:   Ion chromatography with UV detection.
Documentation:   ID-211

Analyte List*

Analyte Formula CAS Number Detection Limit
Sodium azide
NaN3
26628-22-8
0.011
 mg/m3 (5L sample)
Hydrogen azide
HN3
7782-79-8
0.004
 ppm

* The analytes and detection limits listed for each method represent the typical detection limits and analytes reported for that particular method. Keep in mind that analyte lists may vary from laboratory to laboratory. Detection limits may also vary from lab to lab and are dependent upon the sample size, matrix, and any interferences that may be present in the sample.