The Fertilisers (Sampling and Analysis) Regulations 1996

Determination

7.2  According to the variant chosen, place in the receiving flask an exactly measured quantity of standard sulfuric acid as indicated in the Table. Add the appropriate quantity of the chosen indicator solution (4.10.1 or 4.10.2) and sufficient water to give a volume of 50 ml. The end of the extension tube of the condenser must be below the surface of the solution. Fill the bubble trap with distilled water.

Using a pipette, take an aliquot part of the clear solution as indicated in the Table and place in the distillation flask. Add sufficient water to the distillation flask to obtain a volume of 250 – 300 ml, then add 5 ml ethanol (4.11) and 4 g Devarda’s alloy (4.8).

Note: In the presence of calcium salts such as calcium nitrate and calcium ammonium nitrate, it is necessary to add 0.7 g disodium hydrogen phosphate (Na2HPO4.2H2O) before distillation for each gram of sample present in the aliquot part, to prevent the formation of calcium hydroxide.

Taking the necessary precautions to avoid loss of ammonia, add to the flask about 30 ml of 30% sodium hydroxide solution (4.9) and finally, in the case of acid-soluble samples, an additional quantity sufficient to neutralise the quantity of hydrochloric acid (4.1) present in the aliquot part taken for the analysis. Connect the distillation flask to the apparatus, ensuring the tightness of connections. Carefully swirl the flask to mix the contents.

Warm gently, so that the release of hydrogen decreases appreciably over about half an hour and the liquid begins to boil. Continue the distillation, increasing the heat so that at least 200 ml of liquid distils in about 30 minutes. (Do not prolong the distillation beyond 45 minutes.)

When the distillation is complete, disconnect the receiving flask from the apparatus, carefully wash the extension tube and bubble trap, collecting the rinsings in the titration flask. Titrate the excess acid according to the procedure in Method 2.