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6 SAMPLE ANALYSIS TOOLS for VOCs, SVOCS, and PESTICIDES

6.2 EX-SITU ANALYSIS

6.2.16 Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy

Use: Monitoring of air contaminants.

Description:

Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy measures the absorption caused by infrared active molecules. This technique involves generation of a light beam over a range of wavelengths in the near-IR portion of the spectrum. The beam passes through a parcel of atmosphere in which chemical species absorb IR radiation at characteristic wavelengths. The beam is reflected directly back on itself to the receiver/transmitter. The received spectrum is compared to a library spectrum for each chemical compound of interest so that the compounds present can be identified and qualified. Data analysis is conducted using a PC and a software package.

Analytes:

1. Non-Halogenated VOCs
3. Halogenated VOCs
11. TPHs

Media:

Soil/Sediment Water Gas/Air
Requires extraction to a liquid or gas phase Requires extraction to a liquid or gas phase BETTER
Selectivity: Technique measures the contaminant directly.
Susceptibility to Interference: Medium.
Detection Limits : 100-1000 ppb (soil); 1-50 ppb (water).
Turnaround Time per Sample: Minutes.
Applicable To:
Screen/Identify Characterize Concentration/Extent Cleanup Performance Long-Term Monitoring
BETTER ADEQUATE BETTER BETTER
Quantitative Data Capability: Data become quantitative with additional effort.
Technology Status: Commercially available technology with moderate field experience.
Certification/Verification: Technology has not participated in CalEPA certification and/or CSCT verification program.
Relative Cost per Analysis: Mid-range expense.

Limitations:

EPA Methods:

8410 GC/FTIR Spectrometry for SVOCs: Capillary Column.
8430 Analysis of Bis (2-chloroethyl) Ether and Hydrolysis Products by Direct Aqueous Injection GC/FTIR.
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