Improved Colorimetric Methods and Field Test Kits for Analyzing Anionic Surfactants in Water and Wastewater

摘要

This report is about various methods for the analysis of surfactants in aqueous solution that were reviewed, evaluated, and/or assessed. Emphasis was placed on the development of field test kits based on two improved colorimetric methods involving the use of methylene blue and Azure A. The simplified and improved Methylene Blue Method and Azure A Method require only 5 or 6 ml of aqueous reagent and 25 ml of chloroform for analyzing one sample. The principles, analytical procedures and limitations of the two methods are described in detail. A field test kit based on the use of a portable spectrophotometer (or photometer), and a field test kit based on the use of color comparison device(s) are proposed for use by military personnel with limited training in chemistry.