Sampling, Physical Testing and Chemical Analysis of Fertilisers – A Review of Recent Developments in Methods

Review of Recent Developments in Methods for the Sampling and Physical Testing of Fertilisers

SUMMARY

Technical Committee 134 of the International Standards Organisation was set up to study methods for the sampling and testing of fertilisers. This paper covers work carried out within this Committee in the course of its studies on the sampling and physical testing of fertilisers, leading to the preparation of International Standards. Other recent published work on sampling is reviewed. Recommended techniques for sampling and sample preparation are given in outline and equipment for sample division and grinding is examined. A number of methods for the physical testing of fertilisers are outlined based on the work within I.S.O. and also the UKF Group.

G E N Lance MA (Cantab), UKF Fertilisers Ltd, Ince, Chester, UK.

19 References, 6 Figures, 14 Tables, 41 Pages.

Review of Recent Developments in Methods for the Chemical Analysis of Fertilisers

CONCLUSIONS

In the period under review, instrumental methods have begun to be used more widely for the analysis of fertilisers and have superseded some chemical methods which have given good service over many years. Automatic calculation and reporting of the results of automatic chemical methods is just beginning and this is likely to be the most important development in the immediate future.

A C Docherty BSC, PhD, C.Chem, FRSC, Imperial Chemical Industries Ltd, Billingham, UK.

13 Pages.