CFR 40 Environmental Pollutant Testing by Chromatography
The testing of environmental pollutants as mandated under Codified Regulations for Federal Agencies (CFR) Title 40, Chapter I, Part 53, is a critical process in environmental protection and public health. This service ensures the accurate identification and quantification of hazardous substances present in air, water, soil, and other media. Chromatography serves as an indispensable tool for this purpose due to its unparalleled ability to separate complex mixtures into their individual components.
Chromatographic analysis is primarily conducted using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS). These methods are chosen for their high sensitivity, selectivity, and resolution. GC-MS is particularly effective for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in air and soil samples, while LC-MS offers superior performance for polar compounds like pesticides and pharmaceutical residues in water.
The testing process begins with the collection of environmental specimens, which are then prepared according to rigorous protocols that ensure minimal contamination. The specimen is introduced into the chromatographic system where it undergoes separation based on its physical or chemical properties. Once separated, the components are detected by mass spectrometry, providing detailed information about their identity and concentration.
The results of these analyses are used in a variety of applications including:
- Evaluation of compliance with environmental regulations
- Source identification of pollutants
- Determination of remediation effectiveness
- Audit and verification for regulatory bodies
- Risk assessment in contaminated sites
The accuracy and reliability of these tests are underpinned by strict adherence to international standards such as ISO 17025, ASTM E1648, EN 1903, and IEC 62321. These standards ensure that the testing process is conducted in a manner consistent with best practices globally.
For instance, in the case of water samples, the detection limits for many pollutants are in the picogram range (pg/L), which underscores the sensitivity of our analytical methods. For air samples, we can detect trace levels down to parts per trillion (ppt). This level of precision is essential given the stringent requirements set forth by CFR 40.
Our laboratory employs state-of-the-art instrumentation including Agilent 7890A GC-MS and Thermo Scientific Q Exactive GC-MS, which are regularly calibrated to maintain their accuracy. Our team of experts ensures that each sample is handled with the utmost care, from initial collection to final analysis.
The comprehensive nature of this testing allows for a thorough understanding of environmental pollutant levels, enabling effective mitigation strategies and compliance with legal requirements.
Benefits
Our service provides several key advantages to our clients:
- Compliance Assurance: Ensures that all environmental samples are analyzed in accordance with CFR 40, thereby mitigating the risk of non-compliance.
- Scientific Accuracy: Utilizes advanced chromatographic techniques to achieve high precision and accuracy in pollutant detection.
- Cost Efficiency: By providing accurate and reliable data from the first analysis, it eliminates the need for repeated testing.
- Time-Saving: Quick turnaround times mean that clients can receive their results promptly, allowing for timely decision-making.
- Trusted Expertise: Rely on a team of experienced professionals who are committed to delivering the highest quality service.
Eurolab Advantages
Eurolab prides itself on providing comprehensive and reliable testing services. Here's why we stand out:
- Accreditation: Our laboratory is accredited by the European accreditation body, ensuring that our tests meet the highest standards.
- Experienced Team: A team of experts with years of experience in environmental testing ensures that every sample receives the best possible analysis.
- State-of-the-Art Equipment: We use cutting-edge chromatographic instruments to provide accurate and precise results.
- Comprehensive Services: In addition to pollutant testing, we offer a wide range of other environmental services that cater to diverse client needs.
International Acceptance and Recognition
- ISO 17025 Accreditation: Our laboratory is ISO 17025 accredited, ensuring that all tests meet international standards.
- ASTM E1648 Compliance: This standard specifies the performance requirements for laboratories engaged in environmental testing.
- EN 1903 Conformance: Our services are compliant with this European standard, which sets out the essential requirements for quality assurance systems for testing and calibration laboratories.
- IEC 62321 Acceptance: This international standard ensures that our tests meet the highest electrical safety standards.
