EPA 8270 Organic Contaminant Residues by GC MS
The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) Method 8270 is widely recognized as a robust and reliable analytical technique for the determination of organic contaminants in various environmental samples. This method employs gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), which provides high sensitivity, selectivity, and resolution necessary for detecting even trace levels of organic compounds.
Organic contaminants can pose significant risks to human health and the environment if not properly managed or regulated. Method 8270 is particularly useful in environmental monitoring programs aimed at ensuring compliance with regulatory standards set by governing bodies like the EPA, OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), and other national and international organizations.
One of the key advantages of using GC-MS for this analysis is its ability to simultaneously identify and quantify multiple organic compounds within a single run. This comprehensive approach allows laboratories to efficiently screen complex matrices such as water, soil, air samples, or biological tissues without needing to perform numerous separate tests.
Another significant benefit lies in the versatility of Method 8270; it can be adapted to suit different types of matrices and analytical requirements. For instance, modifications can be made to optimize the method for specific target analytes based on regulatory updates or emerging contaminants of concern. This adaptability ensures that laboratories remain current with evolving scientific knowledge and regulatory expectations.
The extensive experience and expertise our laboratory brings to bear means we are capable of handling a wide range of sample types, from liquid extracts directly prepared from solid samples to concentrated solutions derived after thorough extraction processes. Our team understands the nuances involved in preparing these specimens for analysis, ensuring accurate results every time.
Applied Standards
| Standard | Description |
|---|---|
| EPA Method 8270B | This method covers the procedure for the extraction, clean-up, and analysis of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), semivolatile organic compounds (SVOCs), pesticides, PCBs, PAHs, and other priority pollutants in environmental samples. |
| ASTM D7923 | This standard provides guidance on the use of GC-MS for determining the presence of known or suspected hazardous substances in soil, sediment, sludge, and water. |
Scope and Methodology
| Methodology | Description |
|---|---|
| Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) | This technique involves the use of sorbents to selectively extract analytes from a sample. The extracted compounds are then eluted and concentrated for further analysis. |
| Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) | The separated components are introduced into the mass spectrometer where they undergo ionization followed by fragmentation. The resulting ions are detected based on their mass-to-charge ratio, providing unique fingerprints for identification. |
Why Choose This Test
- Comprehensive Analysis: Simultaneously detects multiple organic compounds in a single run.
- High Sensitivity and Selectivity: Capable of identifying trace levels of contaminants.
- Versatility: Adapted to various sample types, including water, soil, air samples, or biological tissues.
- Regulatory Compliance: Meets stringent requirements set by EPA, OSHA, and other governing bodies.
- Expertise: Leveraging extensive experience in handling complex matrices.
- Accurate Results: Ensures precise identification and quantification of contaminants.
