The field analytical screening program (FASP) polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) method uses a temperature-programmable gas chromatograph (GC) equipped with an electron-capture detector (ECD) to identify and quantify PCBs in soil and water. Gas chromatography is an EPA-approved method for determining PCB concentrations. The FASP PCB method is a modified version of EPA SW-846 Method 8080.
In the FASP PCB method for soil samples, PCBs are extracted from the samples, injected into a GC, and identified and quantified with an ECD. Chromatograms for each sample are compared to the chromatograms for PCB standards. Peak patterns and retention times from the chromatograms are used to identify and quantify PCBs in the soil sample extract. In addition to the GC, the operator may use an autosampler that automatically injects equal amounts of the sample extract into the GC column. The autosampler ensures that the correct amount of extract is used for each analysis and allows continual analysis without an operator.
The FASP PCB method quickly provides results with statistical accuracy and detection limits comparable to those achieved by formal laboratories. The method can also identify individual Aroclors.
Instrumentation and equipment required for the FASP PCB method are not highly portable. When mounted in a mobile laboratory trailer, however, the method can operate on or near most sites relatively easily. Use of this method requires electricity, and Aroclor standards require refrigeration. An exhaust hood and carrier gases also are needed.
Soil samples must be extracted before analysis begins. Hexane and sulfuric acid are used during the extraction process, which removes potential interferences from the soil sample.
The FASP PCB method can identify and quantify PCBs in soil and water samples.
The FASP PCB method was demonstrated under the SITE Program at a well-characterized, PCB-contaminated site. During the demonstration, the method was used to analyze 112 soil samples, 32 field duplicates, and two performance evaluation samples. Split samples were submitted to an off-site laboratory for confirmatory analysis by SW-846 Method 8080. Data generated by the FASP PCB method were directly compared with the data from the off-site laboratory to evaluate the method's accuracy and precision. In addition, the operational characteristics and performance factors of the FASP PCB method were evaluated. The Innovative Technology Evaluation Report (EPA/540/R-95/516) is available from EPA.
EPA PROJECT MANAGER:
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U.S. EPA
National Exposure Research Laboratory
Characterization Research Division
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