Organic Pollutant Testing

Soil, an essential natural resource, can become a reservoir for a variety of organic pollutants stemming from industrial activities, agricultural practices, waste disposal, and accidental spills. These contaminants (such as petroleum hydrocarbons, pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)), even in low concentrations, can pose significant risks. They can leach into groundwater, affecting drinking water supplies, or be absorbed by plants, entering the food chain. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can also evaporate into the air, contributing to air pollution. Identifying and quantifying these pollutants is therefore not just a regulatory requirement but a fundamental step towards protecting public health and preserving our ecosystems. At Alfa Chemistry, we offer comprehensive soil organic pollutant testing services to identify, quantify, and monitor these contaminants, enabling clients to meet regulatory compliance, conduct risk assessments, and implement effective remediation strategies.

Organic pollutants in the soil that Alfa Chemistry can detect include:

• Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs): We can analyze a suite of PAHs, including naphthalene, acenaphthene, fluorene, phenanthrene, anthracene, fluoranthene, pyrene, benzo(a)anthracene, chrysene, benzo(b)fluoranthene, benzo(k)fluoranthene, benzo(a)pyrene, dibenzo(a,h)anthracene, indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene, benzo(g,h,i)perylene, etc.
• Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs): We can test for individual PCB congeners as well as Aroclor mixtures.
• Pesticides and Herbicides: We can test a wide range of pesticide classes, including:
  • Organochlorine Pesticides (OCPs): Such as DDT, DDE, DDD, aldrin, dieldrin, endrin, chlordane, heptachlor, etc.
  • Organophosphorus Pesticides (OPPs): Including malathion, parathion, chlorpyrifos, diazinon, etc.
  • Carbamate Pesticides: Like carbaryl and carbofuran.
  • Pyrethroids: Such as permethrin and cypermethrin.
  • Triazine Herbicides: Including atrazine and simazine.
  • Chlorophenoxy Herbicides: Such as 2,4-D and 2,4,5-T.
• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Our analysis covers:
  • BTEX Compounds: Benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylenes, etc.
  • Chlorinated Solvents: Such as trichloroethylene (TCE), perchloroethylene (PCE), tetrachloroethene, dichloroethanes, vinyl chloride, etc.
  • Oxygenated VOCs: Including methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) and acetone.
  • Other VOCs: Such as chloroform, carbon tetrachloride, styrene, etc.
• Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons (TPH): We can test a wide range of compounds derived from crude oil, including gasoline, diesel and lubricants.
• Phthalates: We can analyze a suite of common phthalates, including di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), dibutyl phthalate (DBP), butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP), etc.
• Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products (PPCPs): We can analyze for a growing list of these compound, including active pharmaceutical ingredients, antibiotics, compounds from personal care products, etc.
• Others: Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), dioxins and furans (PCDD/PCDFs) (if required), semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs), etc.

Analytical techniques we use include:

• Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS/GC-MS/MS): Ideal for PAHs, PCBs, pesticides, and SVOCs.
• Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/LC-MS/MS): Suitable for polar organic compounds and newer pesticides.
• Gas Chromatography-Flame Ionization Detection (GC-FID): Commonly used for petroleum hydrocarbons (e.g., TPH).
• Purge and Trap GC-MS: For detecting VOCs at trace levels.
• High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry (HRMS): For identifying unknown or emerging organic contaminants.

Moreover, our lab is equipped with automated extraction systems (e.g., Soxhlet, accelerated solvent extraction) and cleanup modules to ensure consistent and contamination-free sample processing.

Our advantages:

• Cutting-Edge Technology: We invest in the latest analytical instrumentation and stay abreast of advancements in testing methodologies to provide the most accurate and efficient services.
• Fast Turnaround Times: We understand that time is often critical for environmental projects. We strive to provide prompt and efficient service without compromising on data quality.
• Customized Solutions: We recognize that every project is unique. We work closely with our clients to develop tailored testing plans that meet their specific requirements and budget.
• Exceptional Client Support: Our dedicated client service team is committed to providing excellent support throughout the entire process, from initial inquiry to post-report consultation. We are always available to answer your questions and provide guidance.

For more information about our soil testing services or to request a quote, please contact us. We are committed to supporting cleaner soils and a healthier environment.