Analysis of US EPA Method 8270D Semivolatiles Using a 30 m x 0.25 mm I.D., 0.50 μm SLB-5ms

Importance of the Topic

The determination of semivolatile organic compounds (SVOCs) in environmental samples is critical for monitoring pollution, ensuring regulatory compliance and protecting public health. US EPA Method 8270D is widely adopted for quantifying a broad range of hazardous semivolatiles in soil, solid waste and groundwater.

Objectives and Study Overview

This application note evaluates the performance of a 30 m x 0.25 mm I.D., 0.50 µm film SLB-5ms capillary column for US EPA Method 8270D analysis. The goal is to demonstrate extended calibration range and improved loading capacity compared to thinner films while maintaining resolution and analysis speed.

Methodology and Instrumentation

Certified SVOC standard mixtures (72 analytes plus 8 surrogates) were analyzed on an Agilent 6890 GC coupled to a 5973 MSD operating in electron ionization mode. Chromatographic separation employed an SLB-5ms column (30 m x 0.25 mm I.D., 0.50 µm film). Key conditions included:

• Oven program: hold 40 °C 1 min; ramp 12 °C/min to 250 °C; ramp 25 °C/min to 340 °C (4.5 min hold)
• Injection: 1 µL pulsed (15 psi to 0.10 min), splitless 0.5 min, liner 4 mm I.D., single taper
• Carrier gas: helium, 1.5 mL/min constant flow
• MSD interface: 340 °C, scan m/z 40–450

Used Instrumentation

• Agilent 6890 Gas Chromatograph
• Agilent 5973 Mass Selective Detector (EI mode)
• SLB-5ms capillary column, 30 m x 0.25 mm I.D., 0.50 µm film

Results and Discussion

The thicker 0.50 µm film column accommodated higher sample loads, extending linear dynamic range while preserving retention times and peak shape. All 72 target SVOCs and 8 surrogates were baseline resolved. Detection limits met or exceeded EPA requirements, and run time remained under 40 minutes. Surrogate recoveries were within control limits, indicating robust quantitation.

Benefits and Practical Applications of the Method

• Enhanced calibration range for high-concentration samples
• Improved peak capacity and stable quantitation across diverse SVOCs
• Short analysis time suitable for high-throughput QA/QC laboratories
• Compliance with RCRA and EPA 8270D regulatory frameworks

Future Trends and Opportunities

Advancements in column chemistries and faster temperature programming may further reduce analysis time. Coupling with high-resolution mass spectrometry could improve selectivity for complex matrices. Miniaturized microfluidic GC systems may offer field-deployable SVOC screening.

Conclusion

The 30 m x 0.25 mm I.D., 0.50 µm SLB-5ms column provides a robust, extended-range solution for US EPA Method 8270D semivolatile analysis. It balances capacity, speed and resolution, making it well suited for environmental monitoring and regulatory compliance.

Reference

Stenerson K. Application Report 399: Analysis of US EPA Method 8270D Semivolatiles Using a 30 m x 0.25 mm I.D., 0.50 µm SLB-5ms MSD. Sigma-Aldrich Co., 2006.