Semivolatile organic compound analysis is a common requirement for environmental testing and as such traditionally requires testing of complex and problematic matrices ranging from solid wastes and soils to water samples and gaseous media. Methods, such as the U.S. EPA Method 8270, outline requirements for such testing, and outline suitability checks to ensure results remain accurate across multiple tests. One of the greatest issues presented by SVOC analysis is maintaining peak shape performance as matrix buildup and reactivity from compounds can lead to peak tailing or compound degradation.
This poster outlines the development of a novel inert GC phase with a view towards replacing traditional “5-type” columns. Testing was carried out using samples from NIST SRM 1975 diesel particulate extract to demonstrate performance under particularly adverse conditions. Results determined that the column was able to maintain performance under standard operating and maintenance conditions for 300 samples of this extract with 93.6% of compounds remaining within the ± 20% recovery window acceptance criteria.
