Method 0023A

Sampling and Analysis Method for PCDD/PCDF Emissions from Stationary Sources

This method is used for the collection and analysis of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs) and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) from stationary sources.  The PCDDs/PCDFs determined are seventeen 2,3,7,8-substituted isomers considered to be the most toxic.  Total PCDDs/PCDFs by congener group (e.g. Total TCDD, Total PeCDD) are also reported.

Samples are collected isokinetically using a modified Method 5 train which consists of a glass fiber filter containing no organic binders, XAD-2 resin trap, and a series of impingers.  The sampling train is rinsed with acetone and methylene chloride followed by toluene.  The front half (FH) fractions of the train are prepared and analyzed separately from the back half (BH) fractions.  The FH consists of the FH rinses (nozzle, probe, FH filter holder) and glass fiber filter.  The BH consists of the BH rinses (BH filter holder and condenser coil) and XAD-2 resin trap.  This method contains no language that allows the FHand BH fractions of the train to be combined for analysis as in EPA Method 23.

FH acetone and methylene chloride rinses can be combined.  BH acetone and methylene chloride rinses can be combine.  However, no FH rinse can be combined with a BH rinse and toluene rinses should always be kept separately from acetone and methylene chloride.  Note that the impinger water may be discarded as it is not extracted and analyzed for PCDDs/PCDFs.

Method Data

Hold Times, Preservatives, Preps, Collection, Analytical & Documentation
Holding Time:	30 days from sampling to extraction and 45 days from extraction to analysis.
Preservatives:	Protect all sample fractions from light. The method does not mention any preservation but if possible, all rinses and the XAD resin should be stored on ice for transport to laboratory (4°C± 2).
Required Preps:	Glass fiber filters free of organic binders and XAD-2 resin
Collection Method:	Modified Method 5 train following SW-846 Method 0023A procedures
Analytical Methodology:	GC/MS (high resolution) by SW-846 Method 8290
Documentation:	0023A

* The analytes and detection limits listed for each method represent the typical detection limits and analytes reported for that particular method. Keep in mind that analyte lists may vary from laboratory to laboratory. Detection limits may also vary from lab to lab and are dependent upon the sample size, matrix, and any interferences that may be present in the sample.