METHOD 8082 POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS (PCBs) BY GAS CHROMATOGRAPHY
2.0 SUMMARY OF METHOD
2.1 A measured volume or weight of sample (approximately 1 L for liquids, 2 g to 30 g for solids) is extracted using the appropriate matrix-specific sample extraction technique.
2.2 Aqueous samples are extracted at neutral pH with methylene chloride using Method 3510 (separatory funnel), Method 3520 (continuous liquid-liquid extractor), or other appropriate technique.
2.3 Solid samples are extracted with hexane-acetone (1:1) or methylene chloride-acetone (1:1) using Method 3540 (Soxhlet), Method 3541 (automated Soxhlet), or other appropriate technique.
2.4 Extracts for PCB analysis may be subjected to a sulfuric acid/potassium permanganate cleanup (Method 3665) designed specifically for these analytes. This cleanup technique will remove (destroy) many single component organochlorine or organophosphorus pesticides. Therefore, Method 8082 is not applicable to the analysis of those compounds. Instead, use Method 8081.
2.5 After cleanup, the extract is analyzed by injecting a 2-µL aliquot into a gas chromatograph with a narrow- or wide-bore fused silica capillary column and electron capture detector (GC/ECD).
2.6 The chromatographic data may be used to determine the seven Aroclors in Sec. 1.1, individual PCB congeners, or total PCBs.
