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U.S. Department of Energy
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A data base for establishment of preanalytical holding times

Conference ·
OSTI ID:7003832

Experiments aimed at precisely determining the preanalytical holding time for soil and water samples containing volatile organic compounds have been conducted. Three water samples, distilled water, surface water, and groundwater, as well as three soil samples, were fortified with a wide range of volatile organics. Aliquots of these samples were stored at three conditions for up to one year. Four replicates were analyzed by GC/MS at logarithmic time intervals. Objectives were to develop procedures for the preparation of the samples, to establish the holding time for each compound under each storage condition, and to develop or apply preservation techniques for the extension of the holding time. Most of the volatile organic compounds are stable for at least eight weeks, and probably beyond. Those which are not stable either undergo dehydrohalogenation (tetrachloroethane to trichloroethylene) or bacterial degradation (aromatics). This can be reduced or eliminated by the use of HCI as a preservative. Data on the stability of preserved samples will be presented. Results on the stability of volatiles in soil will also be reported. 10 tabs.

Research Organization:
Oak Ridge National Lab., TN (USA)
DOE Contract Number:
AC05-84OR21400
OSTI ID:
7003832
Report Number(s):
CONF-870763-4; ON: DE88011402
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English