RapidTrace procedure for the automated fractionation of Extractable Petroleum Hydrocarbons (EPH) in soil using ISOLUTE EPH SPE columns

ISOLUTE EPH SPE columns and associated methodologies have been optimised to efficiently fractionate EPHs into aliphatic and polycyclic aromatic (PAH) fractions. The principle is similar to the approach taken by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MADEP) and TPH criteria working group (TPHCWG) methods. However, compared to these methods, the ISOLUTE EPH fractionation column has been significantly reduced in size and the sorbent has been optimised in order to reduce solvent volumes and provide an automation compatible fractionation column. Automation of the fractionation process has been achieved without carryover of PAHs into the aliphatic fraction.

This application note describes the operating conditions for the automated fractionation of EPH into aliphatic and PAH fractions using the ISOLUTE EPH column in conjunction with the caliper RapidTrace SPE automation system.