EPA Method 603

Importance of the Topic

The accurate detection of volatile organic compounds such as acrolein and acrylonitrile is essential for monitoring industrial emissions and ensuring environmental safety. Gas chromatography with flame ionization detection (GC-FID) using capillary columns offers the sensitivity and selectivity required to quantify these toxic analytes at trace levels.

Objectives and Overview of the Study

This application note outlines an isothermal GC-FID method based on EPA Method 603 for the separation and quantification of acrolein and acrylonitrile in environmental samples. The primary aim is to demonstrate reliable chromatographic performance using a Bonded Carbowax column.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The separation was performed on a 30 m × 0.53 mm I.D. capillary column coated with 1.0 μm of Bonded Carbowax (007-CW). The oven was held at 50 °C throughout the run. Samples were introduced via a split/splitless injector maintained at 210 °C. Helium was used as the carrier gas at a constant flow rate of 10 mL/min. Detection was achieved with a flame ionization detector set to 250 °C.

Used Instrumentation

• Gas Chromatograph equipped with split/splitless injector and FID
• Column: 007-CW, Bonded Carbowax, 30 m × 0.53 mm I.D., 1.0 μm film thickness
• Carrier Gas: Helium, 10 mL/min
• Injection Temperature: 210 °C
• Detector Temperature: 250 °C

Main Results and Discussion

The method achieved baseline separation of acrolein and acrylonitrile with sharp, symmetric peaks. Retention times were reproducible, demonstrating the suitability of the Bonded Carbowax phase for polar VOCs at low temperature. The isothermal conditions simplified method operation while maintaining adequate resolution.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Rapid and robust analysis for routine environmental monitoring
• High sensitivity and reproducibility with GC-FID
• Simplified isothermal method reduces thermal stress on column

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Further enhancements may include coupling to mass spectrometry for confirmatory analysis, exploring alternative stationary phases for broader VOC panels, and miniaturizing instrumentation for field-deployable systems.

Conclusion

The presented GC-FID method provides a reliable, user-friendly approach for quantifying acrolein and acrylonitrile in environmental matrices. Its simplicity and performance make it well suited for compliance testing under EPA guidelines.

Reference

EPA Method 603 and Quadrex Corporation Application Note for Bonded Carbowax 007-CW column