EPA Recommended HPLC Vial Wash Procedures

The EPA has established guidelines (section 4.1.4.1) for sample containers used in the analysis of semivolatile organic compounds (SVOCs). Containers for SVOC samples are typically made of glass with PTFE-lined threaded caps. If PTFE liners are unavailable, solvent-rinsed aluminum foil can be used as an alternative liner. However, acidic or basic samples may react with aluminum foil, potentially leading to sample contamination over time. To minimize contamination risks, it is recommended to use new, disposable, pre-cleaned, and certified containers instead of reusing sample containers. Plastic containers or lids without PTFE liners should be avoided, as they may introduce contamination from phthalate esters or other hydrocarbons in the plastic, or cause absorption of the chemicals of concern from the sample. If sample containers are suspected to contribute to interference, especially in low-level analyses, they should be thoroughly washed with soap and water, followed by rinsing with appropriate solvents (refer to Section 4.1.6 for specific cleaning instructions for glassware). Caps can either be solvent-rinsed or replaced with new ones. To detect potential contamination from sample containers, a method blank should be prepared and analyzed.

Per the recommendations of the EPA, it is recommended to source pre-cleaned (and certified) EPA/VOA vials to reduce potential contamination issues. Chrom Tech offers many different HPLC Vials and EPA/VOA vials in 20mL and 40mL volumes. 

Chrom Tech offers EPA/VOA Vials in three different classes:

CLASS 1 EPA/VOA Vials: (Standard)
Containers are assembled with liner and closure, without washing treatment.

CLASS 2 EPA/VOA Vials: (Pre-cleaned)
Containers are processed according to E.P.A. recommended wash procedures—washed with laboratory-grade biodegradable, non-phosphate detergent; rinsed with ASTM Type I De-ionized water; oven dried; and assembled in a contaminate-free environment. Each case’s exterior is labeled with a lot number. Each case contains a copy of wash "Standard Operating Procedure".

CLASS 3 EPA/VOA Vials: (Certified)
Containers are processed according to E.P.A. recommended wash procedures—washed with laboratory-grade biodegradable, non-phosphate detergent; rinsed with ASTM Type I De-ionized water; oven dried; and assembled in a contaminate-free environment. The exterior of each case is labeled with a lot number. Each case contains a "Certificate of Analysis". An independent laboratory is used to certify the container's cleanliness, assuring impartial results.

Conclusion

In addition to HPLC Vials that are pre-cleaned for VOA Analysis, Chrom Tech also offers Environmental Sampling bottles and jars cleaned to EPA-recommended procedures. Please contact Chrom Tech for more information on HPLC Vials, Bottles, and Jars for VOA analysis.