ASTM E2143-01(R2021) pdf free download

ASTM E2143-01(R2021) pdf free download.Standard Test Method for Using Field-Portable Fiber Optics Synchronous Fluorescence Spectrometer for Quantification of Field Samples for Aromatic and Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons
1. Scope
1.1 This test method covers a rapid method for the screening of environmental samples for aromatic hydrocarbons (AHs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The screening takes place in the field and provides immediate feedback on limits of contamination by substances containing AHs and PAHs. Quantification is obtained by the use of appropriately characterized, site-specific calibration curves. Remote sensing by use of optical fibers is useful for accessing difficult to reach areas or potentially dangerous materials or situations. When contamination of field personnel by dangerous materials is a possibility, use of remote sensors may minimize or eliminate the likelihood of such contamination taking place. 1.2 This test method is applicable to AHs and PAHs present in samples extracted from soils or in water. This test method is applicable for field screening or, with an appropriate calibration, quantification of total AHs and PAHs. 1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard. 1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro- priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter- mine the applicability ofregulatory limitations prior to use. 1.5 This international standard was developed in accor- dance with internationally recognized principles on standard- ization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom- mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
4. Summary of Test Method
4.1 This test method consists of extracting the AHs and PAHs from soil samples or preparation of water samples followed by synchronous fluorescence analysis with a field- portable instrument. The samples require serial dilutions of samples to establish a linear response. These measurements are made using standard fluorescence cuvettes. While some opti- mization of selectivity can be accomplished by varying the wavelength difference between excitation and emission monochromators, generally spectra generated from petroleum contaminants with a wavelength difference such as 6 nm or 18 nm provide good results and no preliminary spectra are required (see Test Method D5412).4.2 Different soils have varying partition coefficients. Therefore, representative samples of a subset of the extracts or the water samples should be analyzed by gas chromatography (GC) or other appropriate methods. The purpose is to establish a site-specific calibration curve to be used for quantification of total AHs and PAHs in the environmental samples of interest. 4.3 When desirable, determination of AHs and PAHs may be made remotely using an optical fiber.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 This technique is designed for on-site rapid screening and characterization of environmental soil and water samples resulting in significant cost savings for environmental reme- diation projects. Remote analysis can be made with optical fibers when situations warrant or demand use of this option. 5.2 Quantification of total AHs and PAHs in these environ- mental samples is accomplished by having a subset of the samples analyzed by an alternate technique and generating a site-specific calibration curve. 5.3 Synchronous fluorescence provides sufficient spectral information to characterize the AHs and PAHs present as benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylene(s) (BTEX), the aromatic portion of total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH), or large aromatic ring systems up to at least seven fused rings, such as might be found in creosote.
6. Interferences
6.1 The synchronous fluorescence spectrum can be distorted or quantification may be affected if there is a contaminant present that produces a synchronous peak in the same vicinity as the material of interest. Often spectroquality solvents contain impurities that produce background signals. Solvent blanks should be used to verify a low fluorescence background so the background can be subtracted from the sample’s spectrum. 6.2 There are naturally occurring compounds that fluoresce, which may interfere with the detection of petroleum compounds, present in the sample. Humic acid from leaf mold is an example of such a compound. Its strongest emission occurs in the near ultraviolet range.