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 METHOD 9014 

 CYANIDE IN WATERS AND EXTRACTS 

 USING TITRIMETRIC AND MANUAL SPECTROPHOTOMETRIC PROCEDURES

SW-846 is not intended to be an analytical training manual. Therefore, method procedures 

are written based on the assumption that they will be followed by analysts who are formally 

trained in at least the basic principles of chemical analysis and in the use of the subject 

technology. 

In addition, SW-846 methods, with the exception of required method use for the analysis of 

method-defined parameters, are intended to be guidance methods which contain general 

information on how to perform an analytical procedure or technique which a laboratory can use as 

a basic starting point for generating its own detailed standard operating procedure (SOP), either 

for its own general use or for a specific project application. The performance data included in this 

method are for guidance purposes only, and are not intended to be and must not be used as 

absolute QC acceptance criteria for purposes of laboratory accreditation. 

1.0 SCOPE AND APPLICATION 

1.1 This method can be used for measuring free (non-complexed) cyanide and 

hydrocyanic acid in drinking water, natural surface waters, domestic and industrial wastewaters, 

and in soil extracts. This method may also be used as a determinative step for quantifying total 

and amenable cyanide in the alkaline distillates from Method 9010. 

1.2 The titration procedure of this method uses silver nitrate with 

p-dimethylaminobenzalrhodanine indicator and is used for measuring concentrations of cyanide 

exceeding 0.1 mg/L (0.025 mg/250 mL of absorbing liquid). 

1.3 Prior to employing this method, analysts should consult the disclaimer statement at 

the front of the manual and the information in Chapter Two for guidance on the intended flexibility 

in the choice of methods, apparatus, materials, reagents, and supplies, and on the responsibilities 

of the analyst for demonstrating that the techniques employed are appropriate for the analytes of 

interest, in the matrix of interest, and at the levels of concern. 

In addition, analysts and data users are advised that, except where explicitly required in a 

regulation, the use of SW-846 methods is not mandatory in response to Federal testing 

requirements. The information contained in this method is provided by EPA as guidance to be 

used by the analyst and the regulated community in making judgments necessary to generate 

results that meet the data quality objectives for the intended application. 

1.4 This method is restricted to use by, or under supervision of, appropriately 

experienced and trained personnel. Each analyst must demonstrate the ability to generate 

acceptable results with this method. 

2.0 SUMMARY OF METHOD 

2.1 This method provides two options for the determination of cyanide; namely, a 

manual spectrophotometric (colorimetric) procedure or a titrimetric procedure. 
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2.2 In the colorimetric measurement, the cyanide is converted to cyanogen chloride 

(CNCl) by reaction of cyanide with chloramine-T at a pH less than 8. After the reaction is 

complete, color is formed on the addition of pyridine-barbituric acid reagent. The absorbance is 

read at 578 nm for the complex formed with pyridine-barbituric acid reagent and CNCl. To obtain 

colors of comparable intensity, it is essential to have the same salt content in both the sample and 

the standards. 

2.3 The titration measurement uses a standard solution of silver nitrate to titrate cyanide 

in the presence of a silver sensitive indicator. 

3.0 DEFINITIONS 

Refer to Chapter One, Chapter Three, and the manufacturer's instructions for definitions 

that may be relevant to this procedure. 

4.0 INTERFERENCES 

4.1 Solvents, reagents, glassware, and other sample processing hardware may yield 

artifacts and/or interferences to sample analysis. All of these materials must be demonstrated to 

be free from interferences under the conditions of the analysis by analyzing method blanks. 

Specific selection of reagents and purification of solvents by distillation in all-glass systems may 

be necessary. Refer to each method to be used for specific guidance on quality control 

procedures and to Chapter Three for general guidance on the cleaning of glassware. 

4.2 Interferences are eliminated or reduced by using the distillation procedure. 

Chlorine and sulfide are potential interferences in this method. 

4.3 Oxidizing agents such as chlorine decompose most cyanides in solution. Chlorine 

interferences can be removed by adding an excess of sodium arsenite to the waste prior to 

preservation and storage of the sample to reduce the chlorine to chloride which does not interfere. 

4.4 Sulfide interference can be removed by adding an excess of bismuth nitrate to the 

waste (to precipitate the sulfide) before distillation. Samples that contain hydrogen sulfide, metal 

sulfides, or other compounds that may produce hydrogen sulfide during the distillation should be 

treated by the addition of bismuth nitrate. 

4.5 High results may be obtained for samples that contain nitrate and/or nitrite. During 

the distillation, nitrate and nitrite will form nitrous acid, which will react with some organic 

compounds to form oximes. These compounds, once formed, will decompose under test 

conditions to generate HCN. The possibility of interference of nitrate and nitrite is eliminated by 

pretreatment with sulfamic acid just before distillation. Nitrate and nitrite are interferences when 

present at levels higher than 10 mg/l and in conjunction with certain organic compounds. 

4.6 Thiocyanate is reported to be an interferent when present at very high levels; levels 

of 10 mg/L or less were not found to interfere. 

 4.7 Fatty acids, detergents, surfactants, and other compounds may cause foaming 

during the distillation when they are present in high concentrations, and may make the endpoint 

for the titrimetric determination difficult to detect. They may be extracted at pH 6-7 to eliminate 

this interference. 
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5.0 SAFETY 

5.1 This method does not address all safety issues associated with its use. The 

laboratory is responsible for maintaining a safe work environment and a current awareness file of 

OSHA regulations regarding the safe handling of the chemicals specified in this method. A 

reference file of material safety data sheets (MSDSs) should be available to all personnel involved 

in these analyses. 

WARNING: KCN and NaCN are highly toxic. Avoid skin and eye contact and inhalation. 

5.2 Because of the toxicity of cyanide, exercise great care in its handling. Acidification 

of cyanide solutions produces lethal, toxic hydrogen cyanide (HCN) gas. Prepare all 

cyanide-containing solutions within a ventilation hood. Wear hand and eye protection at all times 

when working with cyanide. 

6.0 EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES 

 

The mention of trade names or commercial products in this manual is for illustrative 

purposes only, and does not constitute an EPA endorsement or exclusive recommendation for 

use. The products and instrument settings cited in SW-846 methods represent those products 

and settings used during method development or subsequently evaluated by the Agency. 

Glassware, reagents, supplies, equipment, and settings other than those listed in this manual 

may be employed provided that method performance appropriate for the intended application has 

been demonstrated and documented. 

This section does not list all common laboratory glassware (e.g., beakers and flasks) that 

might be used. 

6.1 Spectrophotometer - Suitable for measurements at 578 nm with a 1.0 cm cell or 

larger. 

6.2 Hot plate stirrer/heating mantle. 

6.3 pH meter. 

6.4 Refrigerator. 

6.5 5 mL microburette. 

6.6 Class A volumetric flasks - 1000, 250, and 100 mL. 

6.7 Erlenmeyer flask - 500 mL. 
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7.0 REAGENTS AND STANDARDS 

7.1 Reagent-grade chemicals must be used in all tests. Unless otherwise indicated, it 

is intended that all reagents conform to the specifications of the Committee on Analytical 

Reagents of the American Chemical Society, where such specifications are available. Other 

grades may be used, provided it is first ascertained that the reagent is of sufficiently high purity to 

permit its use without lessening the accuracy of the determination. Reagents should be stored in 

glass to prevent the leaching of contaminants from plastic containers. Note, however, that 

sodium hydroxide solutions of relatively moderate strength (i.e., 4.1 g/L and greater), should be 

stored in HDPE plastic containers whenever possible. 

7.2 Reagent water -- Reagent water must be interference free. All references to water 

in this method refer to reagent water, unless otherwise specified. 

7.3 Reagents for spectrophotometric determination 

 7.3.1 Sodium hydroxide solution (0.25N), NaOH - Dissolve 10 g of NaOH in 1 liter 

of water. 

7.3.2 Sodium phosphate monobasic (1M), NaH2PO4•H2O - Dissolve 138 g of 

NaH2PO4•H2O in 1 liter of water. Refrigerate this solution. 

7.3.3 Chloramine-T solution (0.44%), C7H7ClNNaO2S - Dissolve 1.0 g of white, 

water-soluble chloramine-T in 100 mL of water and refrigerate until ready to use. 

7.3.4 Pyridine-barbituric acid reagent, C5H5N•C4H4N2O3 - Place 15 g of barbituric 

acid in a 250-mL volumetric flask and add just enough water to wash the sides of the flask 

and wet the barbituric acid. Add 75 mL of pyridine and mix. Add 15 mL of concentrated 

hydrochloric acid (HCl), mix, and cool to room temperature. Dilute to 250 mL with water. 

This reagent is stable for approximately six months if stored in a cool, dark place. 

7.3.5 Stock potassium cyanide solution (1 mL = 1000 μg CN−), KCN - Dissolve 

2.51 g of KCN and 2 g of KOH in 900 mL of water. Standardize with 0.0192N silver 

nitrate, AgNO3. Dilute to appropriate concentration to achieve 1 mL = 1000 μg of CN−. 

NOTE: A detailed procedure for AgNO3 standardization is described in Standard 

Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater, 18th Edition, 1992, "Method 

4500-CN D." 

7.3.6 Intermediate standard potassium cyanide solution (1 mL = 100 μg CN−), 

KCN. Dilute 100 mL of stock potassium cyanide solution (1 mL = 1000 μg CN−) to 1000 

mL with water. 

7.3.7 Working standard potassium cyanide solution (1 mL = 10 μg CN−), KCN. 

Prepare fresh daily by diluting 100 mL of intermediate standard potassium cyanide solution 

and 10 mL of 1N NaOH to 1 liter with water. 

7.4 Reagents for titration procedure 

7.4.1 Rhodanine indicator - Dissolve 20 mg of p-dimethylamino-benzal-rhodanine, 

C12H12N2OS2, in 100 mL of acetone. 

7.4.2 Standard silver nitrate solution (0.0192N), AgNO3 - Prepare by crushing 

approximately 5 g of AgNO3 and drying to constant weight at 40 °C. Weigh out 3.2647 g of 
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dried AgNO3. Dissolve in 1 liter of water. 

NOTE: A detailed procedure for AgNO3 standardization is described in Standard Methods 

for the Examination of Water and Wastewater, 18th Edition, 1992, "Method 4500-CN D." 

8.0 SAMPLE COLLECTION, PRESERVATION, AND STORAGE 

Sample collection, preservation and storage requirements may vary by EPA program and 

may be specified in a regulation or project planning document that requires compliance 

monitoring for a given contaminant. Where such requirements are specified in the regulation, 

follow those requirements. In the absence of specific regulatory requirements, use the following 

information as guidance in determining the sample collection, preservation and storage 

requirements. 

8.1 See the introductory material in Chapter Three, "Inorganic Analytes." 

8.2 Samples should be collected in plastic or glass (preferably plastic) containers that 

are either amber or covered with aluminum foil so as to filter light at 400 nm and below and 

prevent photodecomposition of cyanide complexes. All containers must be thoroughly cleaned 

and rinsed prior to use. All sample containers must be prewashed with acids, water, and 

metal-free detergents, if necessary, depending on the use history of the container. For further 

information, see Chapter Three. 

8.3 Aqueous samples for cyanide analysis should be preserved under alkaline 

conditions by adjusting the pH to 12 or greater using sodium hydroxide. Solid waste samples 

should be stored at ≤6 oC after collection and prior to extraction. 

8.4 Store all sample matrices at ≤6 oC for no longer than 14 days. Solid phase samples 

must be extracted within 14 days of sample collection. Bring the samples to room temperature 

prior to analysis. Analysis of aqueous samples and solid phase extract solutions must be 

performed within 14 days of sample collection or extract generation. 

8.5 Distillates that are not analyzed immediately should be stored in tightly sealed flasks 

at ≤6 °C. 

9.0 QUALITY CONTROL 

9.1 Refer to Chapter One for guidance on quality assurance (QA) and quality control 

(QC) protocols. When inconsistencies exist between QC guidelines, method-specific QC criteria 

take precedence over both technique-specific criteria and those criteria given in Chapter One, 

and technique-specific QC criteria take precedence over the criteria in Chapter One. Any effort 

involving the collection of analytical data should include development of a structured and 

systematic planning document, such as a Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) or a Sampling 

and Analysis Plan (SAP), which translates project objectives and specifications into directions for 

those that will implement the project and assess the results. Each laboratory should maintain a 

formal quality assurance program. The laboratory should also maintain records to document the 

quality of the data generated. All data sheets and quality control data should be maintained for 

reference or inspection.
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9.2 Initial demonstration of proficiency (IDP) 

 Prior to the analysis of samples an initial demonstration of method proficiency is 

accomplished through the successful calibration of method-specific instruments according to 

project requirements and criteria set forth in the applicable analytical methodology. This initial 

demonstration should be performed prior to independently running an analytical method, and 

should be repeated if other changes occur (e.g., instrument repair, significant change in 

procedure). Documentation of IDP should be maintained by the Quality Assurance Manager. 

The laboratory must also repeat the demonstration of proficiency whenever new staff members 

are trained or significant changes in instrumentation are made. See Method 8000 for information 

on how to accomplish an initial demonstration of proficiency. 

 An analytical instrument is said to be calibrated when an instrumental response can be 

related to the concentration of an analyte. This relationship may be depicted graphically, and 

referred to as a “calibration curve.” Initial calibration curves must be established based upon the 

requisite number of standards identified within the method for each target analyte (and surrogate 

for organic compounds). All reported concentrations for target analytes should be within the high 

and low initial calibration standards. Data generated above the high standard should be diluted 

into the calibration range and reanalyzed. The frequency requirements for the initial calibration 

vary among the individual methods. 

Most analytical methods require multipoint (three or more) calibration that may include 

calibration blanks and higher levels so that unknowns fall within the calibration range and are 

bracketed by calibration points. The number of calibration points, the calibration range, and the 

frequency requirements should be specified in the QAPP. 

9.3 Before processing any samples, the analyst should demonstrate that all parts of the 

equipment in contact with the sample and reagents are interference-free. This is accomplished 

through the analysis of a method blank. As a continuing check, each time samples are 

extracted, cleaned up, and analyzed, and when there is a change in reagents, a method blank 

should be prepared and analyzed for the compounds of interest as a safeguard against chronic 

laboratory contamination. If a measurable absorbance is observed at or in close proximity to the 

measurement wavelength of the target analyte that would prevent the accurate determination of 

that analyte, determine the source and eliminate it, if possible, before processing the samples. 

The blanks should be carried through all stages of sample preparation and analysis. When new 

reagents or chemicals are received, the laboratory should monitor the preparation and/or analysis 

blanks associated with samples for any signs of contamination. It is not necessary to test every 

new batch of reagents or chemicals prior to sample preparation if the source shows no prior 

problems. However, if reagents are changed during a preparation batch, separate blanks need 

to be prepared for each set of reagents. 

The laboratory should not subtract the results of the method blank from those of any 

associated samples. Such "blank subtraction" may lead to negative sample results. If the 

method blank results do not meet the project-specific acceptance criteria and reanalysis is not 

practical, then the data user should be provided with the sample results, the method blank results, 

and a discussion of the corrective actions undertaken by the laboratory. 

9.4 Sample quality control for preparation and analysis 

 The laboratory must also have procedures for documenting the effect of the matrix on 

method performance (precision, accuracy, method sensitivity). At a minimum, this should 

include the analysis of QC samples including a method blank, a matrix spike, a duplicate, and a 

laboratory control sample in each analytical batch. Any method blanks, matrix spike samples, 
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and replicate samples must be subjected to the same analytical procedures (Sec. 11.0) as those 

used on actual samples. 

The following should be included within each analytical batch: 

9.4.1 Method Blank - For each batch of samples analyzed, at least one method 

blank must be carried throughout the entire sample preparation and analytical process, 

including exposure to all glassware, equipment, solvents, filtration, and reagents that are 

used with field samples. Analysis of a method blank is used to assess contamination 

from the laboratory environment, equipment, and/or reagents. Any free cyanide 

measured in the method blank that exceeds the lower limit of quantitation (LLOQ) (Sec. 

9.7) indicates that contamination is present. The source of the contamination should be 

determined and corrected prior to performing any sample analysis. Any sample included 

in an analysis batch that has an unacceptable method blank concentration should be 

reanalyzed in a subsequent batch after the contamination problem is resolved. 

9.4.2 Matrix Spike (MS)/Duplicate - Documenting the effect of the matrix should 

include the analysis of at least one MS and one duplicate unspiked sample or one matrix 

spike/matrix spike duplicate (MS/MSD) pair. Both aqueous samples and solid sample 

extracts should be represented by a minimum of one MS sample for each respective 

matrix. The decision on whether to prepare and analyze duplicate samples or a 

MS/MSD must be based on knowledge of the samples in the sample batch. If samples 

are expected to contain the target analyte, laboratories may use a matrix spike (MS) and 

a duplicate analysis of an unspiked field sample. If samples are not expected to contain 

the target analyte, the laboratories should use a MS/MSD pair. Consult Method 8000 

for information on developing acceptance criteria for the MS/MSD. 

9.4.3 A laboratory control sample (LCS) should be included with each analytical 

batch. The LCS consists of an aliquot of a clean (control) matrix similar to the sample 

matrix and of the same weight or volume. The LCS is spiked with the same analytes at 

the same concentrations as the matrix spike, when appropriate. When the results of the 

matrix spike analysis indicate a potential problem due to the sample matrix itself, the 

LCS results are used to verify that the laboratory can perform the analysis in a clean 

matrix. Consult Method 8000 for information on developing acceptance criteria for the 

LCS. 

9.4.4 Also see Method 8000 for the details on carrying out sample quality control 

procedures for preparation and analysis. In-house method performance criteria for 

evaluating method performance should be developed using the guidance found in 

Method 8000. 

9.5 Initial Calibration Verification (ICV) 

 Immediately after the calibration standards have been analyzed, the accuracy of the 

calibration must be verified by the analysis of an ICV standard. The ICV is prepared in the same 

manner as a calibration standard (i.e., the sample is NOT processed through distillation) at a 

concentration level within the calibration range of the method and using a second source standard 

(prepared using standards different from the calibration standards) spiked into 0.25N sodium 

hydroxide (see Sec. 10.1). The control limit for the ICV is ±15% of the true value. When the ICV 

exceeds the control limits, the analysis should be terminated, the problem corrected, the 

instrument recalibrated, and the calibration re-verified. 
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9.6 Continuing Calibration Verification (CCV) 

 Once the calibration curve has been established, the continuing accuracy must be verified 

by analysis of a CCV after every tenth field sample, and at the end of the analysis sequence. 

The CCV is equivalent to or prepared in the same manner as a calibration standard (i.e., the 

sample is NOT processed through distillation) at a concentration level within the calibration range 

of the method and using the same source standard (prepared using the same source standards 

as those used to prepare the calibration standards) spiked into 0.25N sodium hydroxide (see Sec. 

10.1). CCV concentrations alternating between the low- and mid-range calibration standard 

concentrations are recommended. The control limit for the low-range CCV is ± 50% and for the 

mid-range CCV is ± 15% of the true value. When the CCV exceeds the control limits, the 

analysis should be terminated, the problem corrected, the instrument recalibrated, and the 

calibration re-verified using an ICV analysis. Samples that are not bracketed by acceptable CCV 

runs must be reanalyzed. 

9.7 Lower Limit of Quantitation (LLOQ) check standard 

The laboratory should establish the LLOQ as the lowest point of quantitation which, in 

most cases, is the lowest concentration in the calibration curve. The LLOQ should be verified by 

the analysis of at least 7 replicate samples, spiked at the LLOQ and processed through all 

preparation and analysis steps of the method. The mean recovery and relative standard 

deviation of these samples provide an initial statement of precision and accuracy at the LLOQ. 

In most cases the mean recovery should be +/- 35% of the true value and RSD should be < 20%. 

In-house limits may be calculated when sufficient data points exist. 

 9.7.1 The LLOQ verification is recommended for each project application or, at a 

minimum, on a quarterly basis to validate quantitation capability at low analyte concentration 

levels. This verification may be accomplished either with clean control material (e.g., reagent 

water, method blank, Ottawa sand, diatomaceous earth, etc.) or a representative sample matrix 

(free of target compounds). Optimally, the LLOQ should be less than or equal to the desired 

regulatory action levels based on the stated project-specific requirements. 

9.7.1.1 The determination of LLOQs using spiked clean control material 

represents a best-case scenario, and does not evaluate the potential matrix effects of 

real-world samples. For the application of LLOQs on a project-specific basis, with 

established DQOs, a representative matrix-specific LLOQ verification may provide a more 

reliable estimate of the lower quantitation limit capabilities. 

9.7.1.2 Alternatively, a representative sample matrix may be spiked with 

the analytes of interest at the predicted LLOQ concentration levels. This LLOQ check is 

carried through the same preparation procedures as the environmental samples and other 

QC. Individual LLOQs are verified when each respective analyte is recovered at ±50% of 

the predicted LLOQ concentration or established DQO criteria. This check may also be 

applied towards establishing the individual analyte reporting limit(s). 

9.7.2 In-house limits may be calculated when sufficient data points exist. 

9.8 It is recommended that the laboratory adopt additional QA practices for use with this 

method. The specific practices that are most productive depend upon the needs of the 

laboratory and the nature of the samples. Whenever possible, the laboratory should analyze 

standard reference materials and participate in relevant performance evaluation studies. 

9.9 The method of standard additions must be used for the analysis of all samples that 
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suffer from matrix interferences such as samples which contain sulfides. 

10.0 CALIBRATION AND STANDARDIZATION 

10.1 Standard curve for samples without sulfide 

10.1.1 Prepare a series of standards by pipetting suitable volumes of working 

standard potassium cyanide solution into 250-mL volumetric flasks. To each flask, add 

50 mL of 1.25N sodium hydroxide and dilute to 250 mL with water. Prepare using the 

following table. The sodium hydroxide concentration will be 0.25N. 

 mL of Working Standard 

Solution

(1 mL = 10 μg CN−)

Concentration 

(μg CN−/L)

 0

1.0 

2.0 

5.0 

10.0 

15.0 

20.0 

Blank

 40

 80

200 

400 

600 

800 

10.1.2 After the standard solutions have been prepared according to the table 

above, pipet 50 mL of each standard solution into a 100-mL volumetric flask and proceed 

to Sections 11.2.2 and 11.2.3 to obtain absorbance values for the standard curve. The 

final concentrations for the standard curve will be one half of the amounts in the above 

table (final concentrations ranging from 20 to 400 μg/L). 

10.1.3 Prepare a standard curve ranging from 20 to 400 μg/L by plotting absorbance 

of standard versus the cyanide concentration 

10.2 Standard curve for samples with sulfide 

10.2.1 It is imperative that all standards be distilled in the same manner as the 

samples using the method of standard additions. Standards distilled by this method will 

give a linear curve, at low concentrations, but as the concentration increases, the 

recovery decreases. It is recommended that at least five standards be distilled. 

10.2.2 Prepare a series of standards similar in concentration to those mentioned in 

Sec. 10.1.1 and analyze as in Sec. 11.2. Prepare a standard curve by plotting 

absorbance of standard versus the cyanide concentration. 

11.0 PROCEDURE 

11.1 If the manual spectrophotometric determination will be performed, proceed to 

Sec. 11.2. If the titration procedure will be performed, proceed to Sec. 11.3. 
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11.2 Manual spectrophotometric (colorimetric) determination 

11.2.1 Pipet 50 mL of sample or 50 mL of the scrubber solution obtained from the 

distillation procedure in Method 9010 into a 100-mL volumetric flask. If the sample is later 

found to be beyond the linear range of the colorimetric determination and redistillation of a 

smaller sample is not feasible, a smaller aliquot may be taken. If less than 50 mL is taken, 

dilute to 50 mL with 0.25N sodium hydroxide solution. 

CAUTION: Temperature of reagents and spiking solution can affect the response factor of 

the colorimetric determination. The reagents stored in the refrigerator should be warmed to 

ambient temperature before use. Samples should not be left in a warm instrument to 

develop color, but instead they should be aliquoted to a cuvette immediately prior to reading 

the absorbance. 

11.2.2 Add 15 mL of 1M sodium phosphate solution and mix. Add 2 mL of 

chloramine-T and mix. Some distillates may contain compounds that have chlorine 

demand. One minute after the addition of chloramine-T, test for excess chlorine with 

KI-starch paper. If the test is negative, add 0.5 mL chloramine-T. After 1 minute recheck 

with KI-starch paper. Continue to add chloramine-T in 0.5 mL increments until an excess is 

maintained. After 1 to 2 min., add 5 mL of pyridine-barbituric acid solution and mix. 

11.2.3 Dilute to 100 mL with water and mix again. Allow 8 minutes for color 

development and then read the absorbance at 578 nm in a 1-cm cell within 15 min. The 

sodium hydroxide concentration will be 0.125N. See Sec. 10.0 for standard curves. See 

Sec. 12.1 for calculation. 

11.2.4 See Sec. 10.0 for instructions regarding preparation of a standard curve 

based on whether the sample contains sulfides. 

11.3 Titration procedure 

11.3.1 Transfer the gas scrubber solution or a suitable aliquot from the 250-mL 

volumetric flask to a 500-mL Erlenmeyer flask. Add 10-12 drops of the rhodanine indicator. 

11.3.2 Titrate with standard 0.0192N silver nitrate to the first change in color from 

yellow to brownish-pink. The titration must be performed slowly with constant stirring. 

Titrate a water blank using the same amount of sodium hydroxide and indicator used in the 

sample. The analyst should be familiar with the endpoint of the titration and the amount of 

indicator to be used before actually titrating the samples. A 5-mL burette may be 

conveniently used to obtain a precise titration. 

NOTE: The titration is based on the following reaction: 

Ag+

 + 2CN → [Ag(CN)2]−

When all of the cyanide has complexed and more silver nitrate is added, the excess 

silver combines with the rhodanine indicator to turn the solution yellow and then brownish-pink. See Sec. 12.2 for calculation. 

 12.0 DATA ANALYSIS AND CALCULATIONS 

12.1 If the spectrophotometric procedure is used, calculate the cyanide, in μg/L, in the 
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original sample as follows: 

 CN− (μg/L) = A x B x C

 D x E 

where: 

 

A = μg/L CN− read from standard curve. 

B = mL of sample after preparation of colorimetric analysis 

(100 mL recommended). 

C = mL of sample after distillation (250 mL recommended). 

D = mL of original sample for distillation (500 mL recommended). 

E = mL used for colorimetric analysis (50 mL recommended). 

 12.2 If the titrimetric procedure is used, calculate concentration of CN- in μg/L in the 

original sample as follows: 

 

 

where: 

A = mL of AgNO3 for titration of sample. 

B = mL of AgNO3 for titration of blank. 

C = mL of sample titrated (250 mL recommended). 

D = Actual normality of AgNO3 (0.0192 N recommended). 

E = mL of sample after distillation (250 mL recommended). 

F = mL of original sample before distillation (500 mL recommended). 

 12.3 Results must be reported in units commensurate with their intended use and all 

dilutions must be taken into account when computing final results. 

13.0 METHOD PERFORMANCE 

13.1 Performance data and related information are provided in SW-846 methods only as 

examples and guidance. The data do not represent required performance goals for users of the 

methods. Instead, performance goals should be developed on a project-specific basis, and the 

laboratory should establish in-house QC performance criteria for the application of this method. 

These performance data are not intended to be and must not be used as absolute QC acceptance 

criteria for purposes of laboratory accreditation.

13.2 The titration procedure using silver nitrate is used for measuring concentrations of 

cyanide exceeding 0.1 mg/L. The colorimetric procedure is used for concentrations below 1 

mg/L of cyanide and is sensitive to about 0.02 mg/L. 

13.3 EPA Method 335.2 (sample distillation with titration) reports that in a single 

laboratory using mixed industrial and domestic waste samples at concentrations of 0.06 to 0.62 

mg/L CN−, the standard deviations for precision were ± 0.005 to ± 0.094, respectively. In a 

single laboratory using mixed industrial and domestic waste samples at concentrations of 0.28 

and 0.62 mg/L CN−, recoveries (accuracy) were 85% and 102%, respectively. These data are 

provided for guidance purposes only. 

 13.4 In two additional studies using surface water, ground water, and landfill leachate 
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samples, the titration procedure was further evaluated. The concentration range used in these 

studies was 0.5 to 10 mg/L cyanide. The detection limit was found to be 0.2 mg/L for both total 

and amenable cyanide determinations. The precision (CV) was 6.9 and 2.6 for total cyanide 

determinations and 18.6 and 9.1 for amenable cyanide determinations. The mean recoveries 

were 94% and 98.9% for total cyanide, and 86.7% and 97.4% for amenable cyanide. These data 

are provided for guidance purposes only. 

14.0 POLLUTION PREVENTION 

14.1 Pollution prevention encompasses any technique that reduces or eliminates the 

quantity and/or toxicity of waste at the point of generation. Numerous opportunities for pollution 

prevention exist in laboratory operation. The EPA has established a preferred hierarchy of 

environmental management techniques that places pollution prevention as the management 

option of first choice. Whenever feasible, laboratory personnel should use pollution prevention 

techniques to address their waste generation. When wastes cannot be feasibly reduced at the 

source, the Agency recommends recycling as the next best option. 

14.2 For information about pollution prevention that may be applicable to laboratories and 

research institutions consult Less is Better: Laboratory Chemical Management for Waste 

Reduction, a free publication available from the American Chemical Society (ACS), Committee on 

Chemical Safety. http://portal.acs.org/portal/fileFetch/C/WPCP_012290/pdf/WPCP_012290.pdf 

15.0 WASTE MANAGEMENT 

The Environmental Protection Agency requires that laboratory waste management 

practices be conducted consistent with all applicable rules and regulations. The Agency urges 

laboratories to protect the air, water, and land by minimizing and controlling all releases from 

hoods and bench operations, complying with the letter and spirit of any sewer discharge permits 

and regulations, and by complying with all solid and hazardous waste regulations, particularly the 

hazardous waste identification rules and land disposal restrictions. For further information on 

waste management, consult the ACS publication listed in Sec. 14.2. 

16.0 REFERENCES 

There are no references directly related to this method. References on total and amenable 

cyanide can be found in Method 9010. 

17.0 TABLES, DIAGRAMS, FLOWCHARTS, AND VALIDATION DATA 

There are no tables or figures in this method. 
SW-846 Update V 9014 - 13 Revision 1 

October 2012 

Appendix A 

Summary of Revisions to Method 9014 (from Revision 0, December 1996) 

1. The entire document was updated to Microsoft Word 2007 .docx format from the original 

.WPD and .PDF files. 

2. Minor editorial and grammatical changes were made throughout the document, as 

needed. 

3. Graphics in the Figures Section were modified from Corel Drawing Objects V.10 to .jpg 

graphical images where needed to remove artifacts from the conversion process. The text 

titles of each figure was centered and formatted. 

4. Minor editorial comments from Workgroup notes for 9013, 9014, 9015 in excel table were 

checked and were found to already be incorporated into the Method. 

5. This Appendix was added to document changes made during the editorial process. 

6. The discussion of Initial Demonstration of Proficiency (IDP) in Section 9.2 was revised per 

language from Chapter One. 

7. Significantly updated and expanded “QUALITY CONTROL” section for better adherence 

to current SW-846 method guidelines and for improved alignment with current universal 

practices for published analytical methods. 

8. Inserted Section 9.7 to describe the use and application of LLOQ.