EN 17803 Persistent Organic Pollutants POPs in Environmental Samples Test
The European Standard EN 17803 provides a comprehensive method for the determination of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in environmental samples. These substances are hazardous, as they can persist in the environment and bioaccumulate through food chains. This standard is crucial for monitoring compliance with regulations that aim to protect human health and the environment.
The test involves the extraction of POPs from various environmental matrices such as water, soil, sediment, and biota. The extracted compounds are then analyzed using advanced chromatographic techniques like gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS) or liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). This ensures the accurate identification and quantification of POPs.
The scope of EN 17803 is broad, covering a wide range of compounds that fall under the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants. The standard specifies detailed procedures for sample preparation, extraction, clean-up, and analysis to ensure reliable results. Compliance with this test is mandatory in several countries as part of their national programs aimed at reducing POPs pollution.
The acceptance criteria are stringent and require that the recovery rates for each target analyte fall within a specified range (typically 70%-120%). This ensures that the method provides accurate and reliable results. The standard also includes quality control measures such as the use of spiked samples to verify the precision and accuracy of the analytical methods.
The test procedure is complex, involving multiple steps from sample collection to final analysis. It requires specialized equipment, including extraction devices, chromatographic instruments, and calibration standards. Proper training and expertise are essential for conducting this test accurately and efficiently. The standard also provides guidance on potential sources of error and how to minimize them.
Environmental monitoring programs use EN 17803 to track the presence and concentrations of POPs in various environmental matrices over time. This helps in assessing the effectiveness of control measures and identifying new sources of contamination. Regulatory bodies rely on these data to enforce compliance with environmental protection laws.
| Applied Standards | Description |
|---|---|
| EN 17803:2016 | A standard for the determination of persistent organic pollutants in environmental samples. |
| ISO 15223-4 | Methodology for the extraction and clean-up of pesticides from environmental matrices. |
Applied Standards
| Standard | Description |
|---|---|
| EN 17803:2016 | European standard for the determination of persistent organic pollutants in environmental samples. |
| ISO 15223-4 | International standard providing methodology for extraction and clean-up of pesticides from environmental matrices. |
Industry Applications
The primary application of EN 17803 is in environmental monitoring programs aimed at reducing POPs pollution. This test is also used by regulatory bodies to enforce compliance with environmental protection laws. Additionally, it is valuable for R&D projects focused on understanding the behavior and effects of POPs in different environmental conditions.
Water treatment companies use this method to ensure that their processes are not inadvertently releasing POPs into the environment. Agricultural organizations employ it to assess the effectiveness of their pest control strategies and mitigate potential risks associated with pesticide residues. Environmental consulting firms utilize EN 17803 when conducting assessments for clients in compliance programs.
| Industry | Application |
|---|---|
| Water Treatment | Ensuring processes do not release POPs into the environment. |
| Agriculture | Evaluating pest control strategies and mitigating risks of pesticide residues. |
Why Choose This Test
- Comprehensive method for determining POPs in various environmental matrices.
- Stringent acceptance criteria ensuring accurate and reliable results.
- Inclusion of quality control measures to verify precision and accuracy.
- Use by regulatory bodies to enforce compliance with environmental protection laws.
- Valuable for R&D projects focused on understanding POPs behavior and effects.
- Essential for monitoring the effectiveness of control measures over time.
- Provides data for assessing potential new sources of contamination.
