API PUBL 4599 : 1994

Description / Abstract:

API PUBL 4599, 1994 Edition, March 1994 - Interlaboratory Study of Three Methods for Analyzing Petroleum Hydrocarbons in Soils

1. SCOPE AND APPLICATION

1.1 Analytes

1.1.1 This method is designed to measure the concentration of diesel range organics in water and soil. This corresponds to an alkane range of C10 - C28 and a boiling point range between approximately 170°C and 430°C.

1.1.2 The method is designed to measure mid-range petroleum products such as diesel or fuel oil. Components greater than C28 present in products such as motor oils or lubricating oils are detectable under the conditions of the method. If, based on a review of the chromatogram, the presence of these product types is suspected, additional efforts may be performed including, but not limited to, analysis of additional reference materials. These additional efforts are not contained within this method.

1.2 Quantitation Limits

1.2.1 Quantitation limits are based on 100 μg/mL of diesel in the extract and are 0.10 mg/L for waters and 4.0 mg/kg for soils. (Note: The word "diesel" corresponds to diesel #2 or fuel oil #2.)

1.3 Dynamic Range

1.3.1 Dilutions should be performed as necessary to put the chromatographic envelope within the linear range of the method. In general, the individual compound range is 1.0 μ/mL to 50 μg/mL in the final extract. This is approximately equivalent to 100 μg/mL to 5000 μg/mL of diesel.

1.4 Experience

1.4.1 This method is based on a solvent extraction, Gas Chromatography (GC) procedure. This method should be used by, or under the supervision of, analysts experienced in the use of solvent extractions and gas chromatographs. The analysts should be skilled in the interpretation of gas chromatograms and their use as a quantitative tool.