Storage and Preservation of Soil Samples for Volatile Compound Analysis
Abstract
Traditionally, soil samples obtained for characterizing or monitoring sites for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have been transported off site before initiating the preparation steps necessary for analysis. In the most recent regulatory guidance, only a two-day holding period at 4 +/- 2 deg C is recommended before a sample should be pre served, so as to allow storage up to 14 days prior to instrumental analysis. The transportation and storage of soil samples were evaluated for: (1) covered core barrel liners, (2) En Core samplers, and (3) empty volatile organic analysis (VOA) vials under different conditions. Core barrel liners covered with either of two formulations of Teflon sheeting or aluminum foil failed to prevent rapid losses of VOCs. En Core samplers and otherwise empty VOA vials were suitable transportation and storage chambers for samples. These chambers not only meet the initial requirement to retain VOCs for two days when held at 4 +/- 2 deg C for transportation purposes, but frequently showed no significant loss of VOCs after placing in a freezer and storing at -12 +/- 3 deg C for an additional 12 days.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1999
- Accession Number
- ADA363601
Entities
People
- Alan D. Hewitt
Organizations
- Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory