The principle is based on the conversion of methanol present in a test portion to formaldehyde by oxidation. The oxidation is carried out with a solution of potassium permanganate in phosphoric acid. Reaction of the formaldehyde formed with chromotropic acid (4,5-dihydroxynaphthalene-2,7-disulphonic acid). Photometric measurement of the violet coloration obtained at a wavelength of about 570 nm. - International Standards ISO 1388/1 to ISO 1377/12 cancel and replace ISO Recommendation R 1388-1970 of which they constitute a technical revision.