Method 5035 Sampling

SW-846 Method 5035A  Closed System Purge & Trap and Extraction
for Volatile Organics in Soil and Waste Samples

|   Background   |   Options   |   FAQ   |   Instructions   |


Background

The EPA has released a new update to Test Methods for Evaluating Solid Waste, SW-846, Third Edition, July 2002, that includes a draft method 5035A.   This draft method, which is considered acceptable for implementation and use, describes a closed-system purge-and-trap process for the collection, preparation and analysis of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in soils, sediments, and solid waste.   A variety of sampling options are allowed.

Appendix A of Method 5035A provides details regarding the many options available for sample collection.  The collection and preservation procedures are intended to prevent loss of VOCs during sample transport, handling and analysis.

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Method 5035A Sampling Options

First Environmental encourages the use of one of the following three options for meeting method 5035A sampling and preservation requirements.

Option 1  (The option preferred by First Environmental)
Sample collection will require the following:

  • 2 pre-weighed vials containing a small magnetic stir bar for low level analysis.
  • 1 pre-weighed vial for medium-high level analysis.
  • 1 four ounce jar for percent total solids determination.
  • Filled vials need to be frozen to between –7oC and –20oC within 48 hours of sample collection.  Store samples at 4oC prior to initiating freezing.
  • Fees:  $12 per sample for sampling kit, which includes the items listed above.

Option 2
Sample collection and  preservation in the field will require the following:

  • 2 sodium bisulfate preserved, pre-weighed vials for low level analysis.
  • 1 methanol preserved, pre-weighed vial for medium level analysis.
  • 1 four ounce jar for percent total solids determination.
  • Fees: $12 per sample for sampling kit, which includes the items listed above.
  • Methanol is flammable.  If samples will be shipped to the laboratory via couriers such as, UPS or Federal Express, DOT labeling requirements must be met. Contact the lab for additional information concerning labeling requirements.

Option 3
Sample collection using EnCoreTM samplers will require:

  • 2 EnCoreTM 5g samplers for low level analysis

  • 1 EnCoreTM  5g sampler for medium level analysis

  • 1 four ounce jar for percent total solids determination

  • T-handle for sampling

  • Fees:  $36 per sample for EnCoreTM  sampling kit which includes the items listed above and $20 per sample for laboratory preservation of samples.

  • $150 for EnCoreTM sampler T-handle (used in sample collection).

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Frequently Asked Questions
About Method 5035A

 
What are the advantages to using the new method?

  • Acidification of carbonaceous soils with sodium bisulfate can cause effervescence and the loss of VOCs.

  • Certain volatile compounds such as 2-chloroethylvinyl ether may be lost by acidification.

  • Methanol is a hazardous material. The new method does not require the use of methanol in the field.

  • Acidification of certain soils with sodium bisulfate may cause the formation of acetone.

  • Sample vials do not contain liquid preservatives that may splash when the sample cores are added to the vials.

What if I can’t get my samples to the lab within 48 hours of sample collection?

Sample freezing must be started within 48 hours of sample collection.  You may initiate the freezing process.  If you purchase a freezer for this purpose, a thermometer is required to monitor the freezer temperature.  When our courier picks up samples, the freezer temperature will be checked and the reading recorded on the Chain of Custody record.  Alternatively, sodium bisulfate and methanol preserved vials can be used to collect the samples.

Can I continue using the sodium bisulfate and methanol vials?

Yes.  Our preference is that sample freezing be utilized, but the use of other options is acceptable.

Do I have to ship my samples to the lab?

If freezing will not be initiated by you within 48 hours, then samples must either be delivered to the laboratory by courier such as UPS or Federal Express, or picked up by our courier to allow the freezing to be initiated within 48 hours.  If samples are going to be shipped on Friday for delivery on Saturday, arrangements must be made with the laboratory.

For further information, please contact us at 630-778-1200.  A complete copy of method 5035A can be obtained on-line at http://www.epa.gov/epaoswer/hazwaste/test/new-meth.htm

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Instructions for
Sample Collection Using The Power Handle
 
  1. The blue plate should be in place on the Power Handle (flanges should be pointing to the round end of the handle). A 5g sample will be collected when the plate is in place.
     
  2. Clip syringe into the Power Handle.
     
  3. Using the Power Handle, push the syringe into the soil to collect 5g sample.
     
  4. Unclip syringe from Power Handle and extrude 5g sample into vial.
  5. Repeat process for each additional vial.
     
  6. A single syringe can be used to collect sample aliquots for each of the three vials.
     
  7. Mark each sample container with your sample identification. Do not add any additional labels or tape to the pre-tared vials. Store samples at 4oC. VOCs must be analyzed within 14 days of collection.
     
  8. A fourth container needs to be submitted to the laboratory for percent total solids determination. Fill the container provided to capacity. If extractable organic analyses, i.e., semi-volatiles, PNAs, or pesticides/PCBs will be performed, the fourth container should be a 4-oz. glass jar.

Note: Methanol is a flammable substance. If samples will be shipped to the laboratory via couriers such as UPS or Federal Express, DOT labeling requirements must be met.

To meet DOT labeling requirements, the following statement must be affixed to the package:
"This package conforms to the conditions and limitations specified in 49CFR 173.4."
The CFR reference is 49 – Transportation, Part 173 – Shippers, General Requirements for Shipments and Packaging, Section 173.4 – Small Quantity Exceptions. In our opinion, the pertinent requirements of this reference are as follows:

  • The maximum quantity of material per inner receptacle is limited to thirty (30) mL.
  • Each inner receptacle is securely packed in an inside packaging with cushioning and absorbent material. The inside packaging cannot react chemically with the material and needs to be capable of absorbing the entire contents of the receptacle. (Note: the foam container in which the vials are placed meet these requirements.)
  • The inside packaging is securely packed in a strong outside packaging. (Note: the cooler meets this requirement.)
  • The gross mass of the completed package does not exceed 64 pounds.

An alternative to field preservation is the use of EnCore samplers (or equivalent) as collection and storage devices. Samples collected in this device must be preserved by the laboratory or analyzed within 48 hours of collection.

Please call us if you have questions concerning these requirements.

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