EPA Recommended HPLC Vial Wash Procedures

The EPA has set guidelines (section 4.1.4.1) for sample containers for Analysis of Semivolatile Organics: The containers specified for samples intended for analysis of SVOCs are typically constructed of glass with PTFE¬lined threaded caps. In situations where PTFE liners are not available, solvent-rinsed aluminum foil may be used as a liner. However, acidic or basic samples may react with the aluminum foil, causing eventual contamination of the sample. Use of new, disposable, pre-cleaned, and certified containers reduces concerns about contamination from reusing sample containers. Plastic containers or plastic lids without PTFE liners should not be used for storage of samples due to potential contamination by phthalate esters and other hydrocarbons within the plastic or absorption of any chemicals of concern in the native sample into the container material. If sample containers are suspected of being a source of interferences, particularly for low-level analysis, they should be soap and water washed followed by rinsing with solvent(s) appropriate for the analytes of interest (see Sec. 4.1.6 for specific instructions on glassware cleaning). Caps may be cleaned by solvent rinsing or replaced with new ones. Monitoring for contamination introduced from sample containers should be accomplished through preparation and analysis of a method blank.

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.