This application note describes a method for the analysis of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in water samples according to US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) method 8260B.
This document details the development of an electronic method (eMethod) for the analysis of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in water samples. The method utilizes Agilent's new G1701DA software (Version 2.0.00) to package GC/MS parameters, calibration tables, and retention time locking (RTL) files into a portable format. This allows for easy transfer and replication of methods across different similarly configured GC/MS systems without manual re-entry of parameters.
The specific application described follows US EPA Method 8260B and analyzes 60 VOCs. The setup includes a Teledyne Tekmar Velocity XPT purge-and-trap sample concentrator, an Agilent 6890N gas chromatograph, and an Agilent 5975 inert Mass Selective Detector (MSD). The document provides detailed experimental procedures, including the preparation of calibration standards and specific instrumental setpoints for the purge-and-trap, GC, and MS components.
| Software Version | G1701DA Version 2.0.00 |
|---|---|
| Target Analytes | 60 VOCs |
| EPA Method | Method 8260B |
| Purge-and-Trap System | Teledyne Tekmar Velocity XPT |
| Gas Chromatograph | Agilent 6890N |
| Mass Spectrometer | Agilent 5975 inert MSD |
| Column | 20 m x 0.18 mm x 1.0 µm DB-VRX |
| RTL Compound | toluene-d8 |
| Calibration Range | 1 to 200 µg/L |
The eMethod uses Agilent's new G1701DA software, Version 2.0.00.
Yes, eMethods are portable and can be transferred to other similarly configured GC/MS systems without tedious parameter re-entry.
The method described follows US EPA Method 8260B for the analysis of VOCs in water.
Toluene-d8 is used as the RTL compound with a retention time locked to 7.405 min.