This study was conducted to provide information for the selection and use of sorbents for cleanup or control of liquid hazardous substances. Literature reviews, sorbent manufacturer data and experiences of On-Scene Coordinators were reviewed in conjunction with laboratory studies. These laboratory studies determined the compatibility and sorption capacity of selected representative hazardous liquid-sorbent pairs. The combined experimental and literature data are being used to prepare A Guidance Manual for the Selection and Use of Sorbents for Hazardous Substance Releases. On-Scene Coordinators and their technical support personnel are the primary target audience for the Manual. To utilize the Manual, the user must first identify the spilled liquid. If it is one of the 200+ liquid hazardous substances addressed in the Manual, a reference is provided to one of 25 'Sorbent Selection and Use Guides'. Each of the 'Guides' enables the user to rapidly identify generic sorbent classes, physical forms, and methods for application and collection that are most suitable for each of four different chemical release-control scenarios: (1) a spill onto land; (2) a floating release into water; (3) a non-floating release into water; and (4) immobilization for landfilling. The Manual contains 'Sorbent Data Sheets' for 13 generic classes of sorbents other than activated carbon. These data sheets contain information on manufacturers, acquisition costs, bulk density and sorbent limitations. The sorption capacity of 190 sorbent-chemical pairs was determined and recorded in the Manual. The Manual also includes cost and estimation procedures, test methods, hazardous liquid physical properties, and a description of the rationale for the release-control scenarios.