SelectScience
Join Free
Accelerating Science
NewsSeparations

Robust Method Development for Low Level Water Contaminant Analysis

SelectScience

Find out how GC-QQQ is enabling the analysis of low level contaminants in water at the National Laboratory Service

18 Sept 2016
Weylan Kiam-Laine
Microbiologist

Editorial article


Servicing the UK Environment Agency, the National Laboratory Service provides analytical solutions to problems of air, water and soil pollution, applying the very latest chemical and molecular techniques.

Anne Hazelden and John Adey of the Environmental Agency were tasked with method development for the detection of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and other contaminants, such as pesticides. For their methods they used the Thermo Fisher Scientific TSQ 8000 Triple Quadrupole GC-MS/MS, on which they were able to develop three robust methods for water analysis to meet targets set by the environmental quality standards (EQS).

PAHs and pesticides have long been highlighted as hazardous water contaminants according to EQS due to their potential harm to human health. As a result, proper ecological risk assessment must be carried out, which follows a robust method. A particular challenge for effective method development is sensitivity as these contaminants may only be present in low concentrations in water.


PAHs have a very low limit of detection now so it was quite a challenge to get down to the sub-15% RSD (relative standard deviation) targets.

John Adey  The National Laboratory Service


Use this instrument for your research? Share your experiences with other scientists worldwide and write a product review today.

For more videos from Water Contaminants Analysis for the EU Water Framework Directive Symposium, click here.

Links

SelectScienceCompany website

Tags

Mass SpectrometryMass spectrometry (MS) is a powerful analytical technique used to identify and quantify molecules based on the mass-to-charge ratio of gas-phase ions. It provides detailed information about the structure, composition, and properties of compounds and is widely used across fields such as environmental monitoring, materials science, drug discovery and development, food and beverage testing, and wider chemical research. Key MS techniques include tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS), liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LS-MS) and inductively coupled plasma (ICP-MS). Choosing from these wide range of techniques and technologies can be a daunting task, so keep up to date with scientific applications, performance expectations, and customer reviews here all in one place. Visit our product directory to receive quotes direct from the manufacturer. Environmental Monitoring and TestingEnvironmental monitoring and testing uses handheld portable analyzers, kits, spectrometers or chromatography systems for air, water, soil, food and other sample testing. Useful features of analyzers such as BOD and COD include portability, easy calibration, automation and sensitivity.  Environmental test kits for pH, water, moisture, etc, should be accurate, sensitive, reliable, fast and easy to use.GC-MS GC-MS (gas chromatography-mass spectrometry) instruments and equipment are used to separate, quantify and identify mixtures of small and volatile compounds, such as polycyclic aromatics, fatty acids and alcohols. Often used in drug detection, forensic investigation and environmental analysis for pesticides and contaminants, GC-MS is a powerful addition to your lab’s analytical capabilities. GC-MS/MS instruments equipped with a qTOF or triple quadrupole analyzers can give greater sensitivity and resolution to your analysis. Find the best GC-MS instruments and equipment in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.Water PurificationThere are a number of water purification methods available to remove contamination from laboratory water. These systems include demineralization, reverse osmosis, filtration and ultrafiltration. A combination of methods is sometimes necessary to achieve purified water suitable for use in experiments.PesticidesPesticides are used to protect crops from diseases, pests and unwanted plants. They are classed as persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and can be harmful to humans. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) currently regulates the use of pesticides in the USA. Triple Quadrupole MsWater AnalysisAnalytical methods used to test the purity of drinking water include determining the level of contaminants abides to the level set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).PAHsEnvironmental ContaminationContaminants in the environment are harmful chemicals that are present in the air, land and water. These include pesticides, pharmaceuticals, persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and many more.Environmental AnalysisEnvironmental analysis describes a variety of tests that determine the effect of chemicals, processes and particulates such as persistent organic pollutants (POPs) have on the environment.

Related articles