What type of container is recommended for collecting ammonia samples?

Ammonia samples require careful collection to ensure that the results are accurate and reflect the actual concentration of ammonia in the water being tested. The recommendation for using either plastic or glass containers is based on their ability to prevent contamination and chemical reactions that could alter ammonia levels.

Plastic containers, particularly those made from materials like polyethylene or polypropylene, are commonly used for ammonia sampling because they are chemically inert and do not release substances that might react with ammonia. They are lightweight and less prone to breakage, making them practical for field sampling.

Glass containers, on the other hand, are also suitable for ammonia sampling as they provide a non-reactive surface that does not interact with the sample. Glass is often preferred in laboratory settings because of its ability to be cleaned thoroughly and reused without concerns of leaching or contamination.

Metal containers are not recommended due to the potential for chemical reactions with the ammonia or its degradation products, which could lead to erroneous results. Similarly, cardboard boxes are unsuitable since they are not a suitable material for containing liquids and could introduce contaminants or absorb moisture.

Ultimately, the choice of either plastic or glass ensures that the ammonia samples are collected in a manner that preserves their integrity until analysis.