Complete Automation of Solid Phase Extraction for EPA Drinking Water Method: A Comprehensive Solution

Oral Presentation

Prepared by P. Bassignani
Fluid Management Systems, 580 PLeasant Street, Watertown, MA, 02472, United States


Contact Information: pbassignani@fms-inc.com; 617-393-2396


ABSTRACT

EPA 500 series covers the analytical protocols for Analysis of organic contaminants in drinking water matrices. Covering a wide array of analyte classes and analytical platforms, Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) is a reoccurring theme. Due to the flexibility of SPE products, a vast assortment of products are cited ranging from reversed phase packing materials like C18 and DVB, to more complex procedures like anion exchange cartridges. Additionally, many extract purification protocols are call the use of SPE housed processes in conjunction with SPE based extractions.

Using automated SPE, various EPA 500 series methods were evaluated for both optimal performance and cost efficiencies. EPA Methods examined included 508, 515, 521, 522, 525, 529, 548, 550 and 552. Emphasis was placed on optimizing method specific media, maximizing solvent usage and increased reproducibility. As wells as performance data, time and labor costs were compared with traditional manual processes.