Method 625-1 2016

Office of Water EPA 821-R-16-007
www.epa.gov December 2016
Method 625.1: Base/Neutrals and

Acids by GC/MS
This document contains the text of Method 625.1 as published in 40 CFR part 136, Appendix A;
but formatted as a more user friendly stand-alone document.
Please address questions or comments to:
CWA Methods Team

Engineering and Analytical Support Branch/EAD (4303T)
Office of Science and Technology
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20460
www.epa.gov/cwa-methods/forms/contact-us-about-cwa-analytical-methods
Method 625.1 – Base/Neutrals and Acids by GC/MS
1. Scope and Application
1.1 This method is for determination of semivolatile organic pollutants in industrial discharges and
other environmental samples by gas chromatography combined with mass spectrometry (GC/MS),
as provided under 40 CFR 136.1. This revision is based on a previous protocol (Reference 1), on
the basic revision promulgated October 26, 1984 (49 FR 43234), and on an interlaboratory method
validation study (Reference 2). Although this method was validated through an interlaboratory
study conducted in the early 1980s, the fundamental chemistry principles used in this method
remain sound and continue to apply.
1.2 The analytes that may be qualitatively and quantitatively determined using this method and their
CAS Registry numbers are listed in Tables 1 and 2. The method may be extended to determine the
analytes listed in Table 3; however, extraction or gas chromatography of some of these analytes
may make quantitative determination difficult. For example, benzidine is subject to oxidative
losses during extraction and/or solvent concentration. Under the alkaline conditions of the
extraction, alpha-BHC, gamma-BHC, endosulfan I and II, and endrin are subject to decomposition.
Hexachlorocyclopentadiene is subject to thermal decomposition in the inlet of the gas
chromatograph, chemical reaction in acetone solution, and photochemical decomposition. N-
nitrosodiphenylamine and other nitrosoamines may decompose in the gas chromatographic inlet.
The sample may be extracted at neutral pH if necessary to overcome these or other decomposition
problems that could occur at alkaline or acidic pH. EPA also has provided other methods (e.g.,
Method 607 – Nitrosamines) that may be used for determination of some of these analytes. EPA
encourages use of Method 625.1 to determine additional compounds amenable to extraction and
GC/MS.
1.3 The large number of analytes in Tables 1 - 3 of this method makes testing difficult if all analytes
are determined simultaneously. Therefore, it is necessary to determine and perform quality control
(QC) tests for the “analytes of interest” only. Analytes of interest are those required to be
determined by a regulatory/control authority or in a permit, or by a client. If a list of analytes is not
specified, the analytes in Tables 1 and 2 must be determined, at a minimum, and QC testing must
be performed for these analytes. The analytes in Tables 1 and 2, and some of the analytes in Table
3 have been identified as Toxic Pollutants (40 CFR 401.15), expanded to a list of Priority
Pollutants (40 CFR part 423, appendix A).
1.4 In this revision to Method 625, the pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) have been
moved from Table 1 to Table 3 (Additional Analytes) to distinguish these analytes from the
analytes required in quality control tests (Tables 1 and 2). QC acceptance criteria for pesticides
and PCBs have been retained in Table 6 and may continue to be applied if desired, or if requested
or required by a regulatory/control authority or in a permit. Method 608.3 should be used for
determination of pesticides and PCBs. However, if pesticides and/or PCBs are to be determined,
an additional sample must be collected and extracted using the pH adjustment and extraction
procedures specified in Method 608.3. Method 1668C may be useful for determination of PCBs as
individual chlorinated biphenyl congeners, and Method 1699 may be useful for determination of
pesticides. At the time of writing of this revision, Methods 1668C and 1699 had not been approved
for use at 40 CFR part 136. The screening procedure for 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin
(2,3,7,8-TCDD) contained in the version of Method 625 promulgated October 26, 1984 (49 FR
43234) has been replaced with procedures for selected ion monitoring (SIM), and 2,3,7,8-TCDD
may be determined using the SIM procedures. However, EPA Method 613 or 1613B should be
Method 625.1 1 December 2016

used for analyte-specific determination of 2,3,7,8-TCDD because of the focus of these methods on
this compound. Methods 613 and 1613B are approved for use at 40 CFR part 136.
1.5 Method detection limits (MDLs; Reference 3) for the analytes in Tables 1, 2, and 3 are listed in
those tables. These MDLs were determined in reagent water (Reference 4). Advances in analytical
technology, particularly the use of capillary (open-tubular) columns, allowed laboratories to
routinely achieve MDLs for the analytes in this method that are 2 - 10 times lower than those in the
version promulgated in 1984 (49 FR 43234). The MDL for an analyte in a specific wastewater
may differ from those listed, depending upon the nature of interferences in the sample matrix.
1.5.1 EPA has promulgated this method at 40 CFR part 136 for use in wastewater compliance
monitoring under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES). The data
reporting practices described in Section 15.2 are focused on such monitoring needs and
may not be relevant to other uses of the method.
1.5.2 This method includes “reporting limits” based on EPA’s “minimum level” (ML) concept
(see the glossary in Section 22). Tables 1, 2, and 3 contain MDL values and ML values for
many of the analytes.
1.6 This method is performance-based. It may be modified to improve performance (e.g., to overcome
interferences or improve the accuracy of results) provided all performance requirements are met.
1.6.1 Examples of allowed method modifications are described at 40 CFR 136.6. Other
examples of allowed modifications specific to this method, including solid-phase extraction
(SPE) are described in Section 8.1.2.
1.6.2 Any modification beyond those expressly permitted at 40 CFR 136.6 or in Section 8.1.2 of
this method shall be considered a major modification subject to application and approval of
an alternate test procedure under 40 CFR 136.4 and 136.5.
1.6.3 For regulatory compliance, any modification must be demonstrated to produce results
equivalent or superior to results produced by this method when applied to relevant
wastewaters (Section 8.3).
1.7 This method is restricted to use by or under the supervision of analysts experienced in the use of a
gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer and in the interpretation of mass spectra. Each laboratory
that uses this method must demonstrate the ability to generate acceptable results using the
procedure in Section 8.2.
1.8 Terms and units of measure used in this method are given in the glossary at the end of the method.
2. Summary of Method
2.1 A measured volume of sample, sufficient to meet an MDL or reporting limit, is serially extracted
with methylene chloride at pH 11 - 13 and again at a pH less than 2 using a separatory funnel or
continuous liquid/liquid extractor.
2.2 The extract is concentrated to a volume necessary to meet the required compliance or detection
limit, and analyzed by GC/MS. Qualitative identification of an analyte in the extract is performed
using the retention time and the relative abundance of two or more characteristic masses (m/z’s).

Quantitative analysis is performed using the internal standard technique with a single characteristic
m/z.
3. Contamination and Interferences
3.1 Solvents, reagents, glassware, and other sample processing labware may yield artifacts, elevated
baselines, or matrix interferences causing misinterpretation of chromatograms and mass spectra.
All materials used in the analysis must be demonstrated to be free from contamination and
interferences by analyzing blanks initially and with each extraction batch (samples started through
the extraction process in a given 24-hour period, to a maximum of 20 samples - see Glossary for
detailed definition), as described in Section 8.5. Specific selection of reagents and purification of
solvents by distillation in all-glass systems may be required. Where possible, labware is cleaned by
extraction or solvent rinse, or baking in a kiln or oven.
3.2 Glassware must be scrupulously cleaned (Reference 5). Clean all glassware as soon as possible
after use by rinsing with the last solvent used in it. Solvent rinsing should be followed by detergent
washing with hot water, and rinses with tap water and reagent water. The glassware should then be
drained dry, and heated at 400 °C for 15 - 30 minutes. Some thermally stable materials, such as
PCBs, may require higher temperatures and longer baking times for removal. Solvent rinses with
pesticide quality acetone, hexane, or other solvents may be substituted for heating. Do not heat
volumetric labware above 90 °C. After drying and cooling, store inverted or capped with solvent-
rinsed or baked aluminum foil in a clean environment to prevent accumulation of dust or other
contaminants.
3.3 Matrix interferences may be caused by contaminants co-extracted from the sample. The extent of
matrix interferences will vary considerably from source to source, depending upon the nature and
diversity of the industrial complex or municipality being sampled. Interferences extracted from
samples high in total organic carbon (TOC) may result in elevated baselines, or by enhancing or
suppressing a signal at or near the retention time of an analyte of interest. Analyses of the matrix
spike and duplicate (Section 8.3) may be useful in identifying matrix interferences, and gel
permeation chromatography (GPC; Section 11.1) and sulfur removal (Section 11.2) may aid in
eliminating these interferences. EPA has provided guidance that may aid in overcoming matrix
interferences (Reference 6).
3.4 In samples that contain an inordinate number of interferences, the use of chemical ionization (CI)
or triple quadrupole (MRM) mass spectrometry may make identification easier. Tables 4 and 5
give characteristic CI and MRM m/z’s for many of the analytes covered by this method. The use
of CI or MRM mass spectrometry may be utilized to support electron ionization (EI) mass
spectrometry or as a primary method for identification and quantification. While the use of these
enhanced techniques is encouraged, it is not required.
4. Safety
4.1 Hazards associated with each reagent used in this method have not been precisely defined;
however, each chemical compound should be treated as a potential health hazard. From this
viewpoint, exposure to these chemicals must be reduced to the lowest possible level by whatever
means available. The laboratory is responsible for maintaining a current awareness file of OSHA
regulations regarding the safe handling of the chemicals specified in this method. A reference file
of safety data sheets (SDSs, OSHA, 29 CFR 1910.1200(g)) should also be made available to all

personnel involved in sample handling and chemical analysis. Additional references to laboratory
safety are available and have been identified (References 7 - 9) for the information of the analyst.
4.2 The following analytes covered by this method have been tentatively classified as known or
suspected human or mammalian carcinogens: benzo(a)anthracene, benzidine, 3,3’-
dichlorobenzidine, benzo(a)pyrene, alpha-BHC, beta-BHC, delta-BHC, gamma-BHC, Dibenz(a,h)-
anthracene, N-nitrosodimethylamine, 4,4’-DDT, and PCBs. Other compounds in Table 3 may also
be toxic. Primary standards of toxic compounds should be prepared in a chemical fume hood, and
a NIOSH/MESA approved toxic gas respirator should be worn when handling high concentrations
of these compounds.
4.3 This method allows the use of hydrogen as a carrier gas in place of helium (Section 5.6.1.2). The
laboratory should take the necessary precautions in dealing with hydrogen, and should limit
hydrogen flow at the source to prevent buildup of an explosive mixture of hydrogen in air.
5. Apparatus and Materials
Note: Brand names, suppliers, and part numbers are for illustration purposes only. No
endorsement is implied. Equivalent performance may be achieved using equipment and
materials other than those specified here. Demonstrating that the equipment and supplies
used in the laboratory achieves the required performance is the responsibility of the
laboratory. Suppliers for equipment and materials in this method may be found through an
on-line search. Please do not contact EPA for supplier information.
5.1 Sampling equipment, for discrete or composite sampling.
5.1.1 Grab sample bottle – Amber glass bottle large enough to contain the necessary sample
volume, fitted with a fluoropolymer-lined screw cap. Foil may be substituted for
fluoropolymer if the sample is not corrosive. If amber bottles are not available, protect
samples from light. Unless pre-cleaned, the bottle and cap liner must be washed, rinsed
with acetone or methylene chloride, and dried before use to minimize contamination.
5.1.2 Automatic sampler (optional) – The sampler must incorporate a pre-cleaned glass sample
container. Samples must be kept refrigerated at ≤ 6 °C and protected from light during
compositing. If the sampler uses a peristaltic pump, a minimum length of compressible
silicone rubber tubing may be used. Before use, however, rinse the compressible tubing
with methanol, followed by repeated rinsing with reagent water, to minimize the potential
for sample contamination. An integrating flow meter is required to collect flow-
proportioned composites.
5.2 Glassware
5.2.1 Separatory funnel – Size appropriate to hold sample volume and extraction solvent volume,
and equipped with fluoropolymer stopcock.
5.2.2 Drying column – Chromatographic column, approximately 400 mm long by 19 mm ID,

with coarse frit, or equivalent, sufficient to hold 15 g of anhydrous sodium sulfate.
5.2.3 Concentrator tube, Kuderna-Danish – 10 mL, graduated (Kontes 570050-1025 or

equivalent). Calibration must be checked at the volumes employed in the test. A ground
glass stopper is used to prevent evaporation of extracts.

5.2.4 Evaporative flask, Kuderna-Danish – 500 mL (Kontes 57001-0500 or equivalent). Attach
to concentrator tube with springs.
Note: Use of a solvent recovery system with the K-D or other solvent evaporation
apparatus is strongly recommended.
5.2.5 Snyder column, Kuderna-Danish – Three-ball macro (Kontes 503000-0121 or equivalent).
5.2.6 Snyder column, Kuderna-Danish – Two-ball micro (Kontes 569001-0219 or equivalent).
5.2.7 Vials – 10-15 mL, amber glass, with Teflon-lined screw cap.
5.2.8 Continuous liquid-liquid extractor – Equipped with fluoropolymer or glass connecting

joints and stopcocks requiring no lubrication. (Hershberg-Wolf Extractor, Ace Glass
Company, Vineland, N.J., P/N 6848-20, or equivalent.)
5.2.9 In addition to the glassware listed above, the laboratory should be equipped with all
necessary pipets, volumetric flasks, beakers, and other glassware listed in this method and
necessary to perform analyses successfully.
5.3 Boiling chips – Approximately 10/40 mesh, glass, silicon carbide, or equivalent. Heat to 400 °C
for 30 minutes, or solvent rinse or Soxhlet extract with methylene chloride.
5.4 Water bath – Heated, with concentric ring cover, capable of temperature control (±2 °C). The bath
should be used in a hood.
5.5 Balances
5.5.1 Analytical, capable of accurately weighing 0.1 mg
5.5.2 Top loading, capable of accurately weighing 10 mg
5.6 GC/MS system
5.6.1 Gas chromatograph (GC) – An analytical system complete with a temperature

programmable gas chromatograph and all required accessories, including syringes and
analytical columns.
5.6.1.1 Injection port – Can be split, splitless, temperature programmable vaporization

split/splitless (PTV), solvent-purge, large-volume, on-column, backflushed, or
other. An autosampler is highly recommended because it injects volumes more
precisely than volumes injected manually.
5.6.1.2 Carrier gas – Helium or hydrogen. Data in the tables in this method were
obtained using helium carrier gas. If hydrogen is used, analytical conditions may
need to be adjusted for optimum performance, and calibration and all QC tests
must be performed with hydrogen carrier gas. See Section 4.3 for precautions
regarding the use of hydrogen as a carrier gas.
5.6.2 GC column – See the footnotes to Tables 4 and 5. Other columns or column systems may
be used provided all requirements in this method are met.

5.6.3 Mass spectrometer – Capable of repetitively scanning from 35-450 Daltons (amu) every
two seconds or less, utilizing a 70 eV (nominal) electron energy in the electron impact
ionization mode, and producing a mass spectrum which meets all the criteria in Table 9A or
9B when 50 ng or less of decafluorotriphenyl phosphine (DFTPP; CAS 5074-71-5;
bis(pentafluorophenyl) phenyl phosphine) is injected into the GC.
5.6.4 GC/MS interface – Any GC to MS interface that meets all performance requirements in this
method may be used.
5.6.5 Data system – A computer system must be interfaced to the mass spectrometer that allows
the continuous acquisition and storage of mass spectra acquired throughout the
chromatographic program. The computer must have software that allows searching any
GC/MS data file for specific m/z’s (masses) and plotting m/z abundances versus time or
scan number. This type of plot is defined as an extracted ion current profile (EICP).
Software must also be available that allows integrating the abundance at any EICP between
specified time or scan number limits.
5.7 Automated gel permeation chromatograph (GPC)
5.7.1 GPC column – 150 - 700 mm long x 21 - 25 mm ID, packed with 70 g of SX-3 Biobeads;
Bio-Rad Labs, or equivalent
5.7.2 Pump, injection valve, UV detector, and other apparatus necessary to meet the requirements
in this method.
5.8 Nitrogen evaporation device – Equipped with a water bath than can be maintained at 30 - 45 °C;
N-Evap, Organomation Associates, or equivalent.
5.9 Muffle furnace or kiln – Capable of baking glassware or sodium sulfate in the range of
400 - 450 °C.
6. Reagents
6.1 Reagent water – Reagent water is defined as water in which the analytes of interest and interfering
compounds are not detected at the MDLs of the analytes of interest.
6.2 Sodium hydroxide solution (10 N) – Dissolve 40 g of NaOH (ACS) in reagent water and dilute to
100 mL.
6.3 Sodium thiosulfate – (ACS) granular.
6.4 Sulfuric acid (1+1) – Slowly add 50 mL of H2SO4 (ACS, sp. gr. 1.84) to 50 mL of reagent water.
6.5 Acetone, methanol, methylene chloride, 2-propanol – High purity pesticide quality, or equivalent,
demonstrated to be free of the analytes of interest and interferences (Section 3). Purification of
solvents by distillation in all-glass systems may be required.
6.6 Sodium sulfate – (ACS) granular, anhydrous, rinsed or Soxhlet extracted with methylene chloride
(20 mL/g), baked in a shallow tray at 450 °C for one hour minimum, cooled in a desiccator, and
stored in a pre-cleaned glass bottle with screw cap that prevents moisture from entering.

6.7 Stock standard solutions (1.00 μg/μL) – Stock standard solutions may be prepared from pure
materials, or purchased as certified solutions. Traceability must be to the National Institute of
Standards and Technology (NIST) or other national or international standard, when available.
Stock solution concentrations alternate to those below may be used. Because of the toxicity of
some of the compounds, primary dilutions should be prepared in a hood, and a NIOSH/MESA
approved toxic gas respirator should be worn when high concentrations of neat materials are
handled. The following procedure may be used to prepare standards from neat materials.
6.7.1 Prepare stock standard solutions by accurately weighing about 0.0100 g of pure material.
Dissolve the material in pesticide quality methanol or other suitable solvent and dilute to
volume in a 10-mL volumetric flask. Larger volumes may be used at the convenience of
the laboratory. When compound purity is assayed to be 96% or greater, the weight may be
used without correction to calculate the concentration of the stock standard. Commercially
prepared stock standards may be used at any concentration if they are certified by the
manufacturer or by an independent source.
6.7.2 Unless stated otherwise in this method, store non-aqueous standards in fluoropolymer-lined
screw-cap, or heat-sealed, glass containers, in the dark at -20 to -10 °C. Store aqueous
standards; e.g., the aqueous LCS (Section 8.4.1), in the dark at ≤ 6 °C, but do not freeze.
Standards prepared by the laboratory may be stored for up to one year, except when
comparison with QC check standards indicates that a standard has degraded or become
more concentrated due to evaporation, or unless the laboratory has data on file to prove
stability for a longer period. Commercially prepared standards may be stored until the
expiration date provided by the vendor, except when comparison with QC check standards
indicates that a standard has degraded or become more concentrated due to evaporation, or
unless the laboratory has data from the vendor on file to prove stability for a longer period.
6.8 Surrogate standard spiking solution
6.8.1 Select a minimum of three surrogate compounds from Table 8 that most closely match the
recovery of the analytes of interest. For example, if all analytes tested are considered acids,
use surrogates that have similar chemical attributes. Other compounds may be used as
surrogates so long as they do not interfere in the analysis. If only one or two analytes are
determined, one or two surrogates may be used.
6.8.2 Prepare a solution containing each selected surrogate such that the concentration in the
sample would match the concentration in the mid-point calibration standard. For example,
if the midpoint of the calibration is 100 μg/L, prepare the spiking solution at a
concentration of 100 μg/mL in methanol. Addition of 1.00 mL of this solution to 1000 mL
of sample will produce a concentration of 100 μg/L of the surrogate. Alternate volumes
and concentrations appropriate to the response of the GC/MS instrument or for selective ion
monitoring (SIM) may be used, if desired. Store per Section 6.7.2.
6.9 Internal standard spiking solution
6.9.1 Select three or more internal standards similar in chromatographic behavior to the analytes
of interest. Internal standards are listed in Table 8. Suggested internal standards are:
1,4-dichlorobenzene-d4; naphthalene-d8; acenaphthene-d10; phenanthrene-d10; chrysene-d12;
and perylene-d12. The laboratory must demonstrate that measurement of the internal
standards is not affected by method or matrix interferences (see also Section 7.3.4).

6.9.2 Prepare the internal standards at a concentration of 10 mg/mL in methylene chloride or
other suitable solvent. When 10 μL of this solution is spiked into a 1-mL extract, the
concentration of the internal standards will be 100 μg/mL. A lower concentration
appropriate to the response of the GC/MS instrument or for SIM may be used, if desired.
Store per Section 6.7.3.
6.9.3 To assure accurate analyte identification, particularly when SIM is used, it may be
advantageous to include more internal standards than those suggested in Section 6.9.1. An
analyte will be located most accurately if its retention time relative to an internal standard is
in the range of 0.8 to 1.2.
6.10 DFTPP standard – Prepare a solution of DFTPP in methanol or other suitable solvent such that 50
ng or less will be injected (see Section 13.2). An alternative concentration may be used to
compensate for specific injection volumes or to assure that the operating range of the instrument is
not exceeded, so long as the total injected is 50 ng or less. Include benzidine and pentachloro-
phenol in this solution such that ≤ 100 ng of benzidine and ≤ 50 ng of pentachlorophenol will be
injected.
6.11 Quality control check sample concentrate – See Section 8.2.1.
6.12 GPC calibration solution
6.12.1 Prepare a methylene chloride solution to contain corn oil, bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate
(BEHP), perylene, and sulfur at the concentrations in Section 6.12.2, or at concentrations
appropriate to the response of the detector.
Note: Sulfur does not readily dissolve in methylene chloride, but is soluble in warm corn oil. The
following procedure is suggested for preparation of the solution:
6.12.2 Weigh 8 mg sulfur and 2.5 g corn oil into a 100-mL volumetric flask and warm to dissolve
the sulfur. Separately weigh 100 mg BEHP, 20 mg pentachlorophenol, and 2 mg perylene
and add to flask. Bring to volume with methylene chloride and mix thoroughly.
6.12.3 Store the solution in an amber glass bottle with a fluoropolymer-lined screw cap at 0 - 6 ºC.
Protect from light. Refrigeration may cause the corn oil to precipitate. Before use, allow
the solution to stand at room temperature until the corn oil dissolves, or warm slightly to
aid in dissolution. Replace the solution every year, or more frequently if the response of a
component changes.
6.13 Sulfur removal – Copper foil or powder (bright, non-oxidized), or tetrabutylammonium sulfite
(TBA sulfite).
6.13.1 Copper foil, or powder – Fisher, Alfa Aesar 42455-18, 625 mesh, or equivalent. Cut
copper foil into approximately 1-cm squares. Copper must be activated before it may be
used, as described below:
6.13.1.1 Place the quantity of copper needed for sulfur removal (Section 11.2.1.3) in a
ground-glass-stoppered Erlenmeyer flask or bottle. Cover the foil or powder
with methanol.
6.13.1.2 Add HCl dropwise (0.5 - 1.0 mL) while swirling, until the copper brightens.

6.13.1.3 Pour off the methanol/HCl and rinse 3 times with reagent water to remove all
traces of acid, then 3 times with acetone, then 3 times with hexane.
6.13.1.4 For copper foil, cover with hexane after the final rinse. Store in a stoppered flask
under nitrogen until used. For the powder, dry on a rotary evaporator or under a
stream of nitrogen. Store in a stoppered flask under nitrogen until used. Inspect
the copper foil or powder before each use. It must have a bright, non-oxidized
appearance to be effective. Copper foil or powder that has oxidized may be
reactivated using the procedure described above.
6.13.2 Tetrabutylammonium sodium sulfite (TBA sodium sulfite)
6.13.2.1 Tetrabutylammonium hydrogen sulfate, [CH3(CH2)3]4NHSO4
6.13.2.2 Sodium sulfite, Na2SO3
6.13.2.3 Dissolve approximately 3 g tetrabutylammonium hydrogen sulfate in 100 mL of

reagent water in an amber bottle with fluoropolymer-lined screw cap. Extract
with three 20-mL portions of hexane and discard the hexane extracts.
6.13.2.4 Add 25 g sodium sulfite to produce a saturated solution. Store at room

temperature. Replace after 1 month.
6.14 DDT and endrin decomposition (breakdown) solution – Prepare a solution containing endrin at a
concentration of 1 µg/mL and 4,4'-DDT at a concentration of 2 µg/mL, in isooctane or hexane. A
1-µL injection of this standard will contain 1 nanogram (ng) of endrin and 2 ng of DDT. The
concentration of the solution may be adjusted by the laboratory to accommodate other injection
volumes such that the same masses of the two analytes are introduced into the instrument.
7. Calibration
7.1 Establish operating conditions equivalent to those in the footnote to Table 4 or 5 for the
base/neutral or acid fraction, respectively. If a combined base/neutral/acid fraction will be
analyzed, use the conditions in the footnote to Table 4. Alternative temperature program and flow
rate conditions may be used. It is necessary to calibrate the GC/MS for the analytes of interest
(Section 1.3) only.
7.2 Internal standard calibration
7.2.1 Prepare calibration standards for the analytes of interest and surrogates at a minimum of
five concentration levels by adding appropriate volumes of one or more stock standards to
volumetric flasks. One of the calibration standards should be at a concentration at or below
the ML specified in Table 1, 2, or 3, or as specified by a regulatory/control authority or in a
permit. The ML value may be rounded to a whole number that is more convenient for
preparing the standard, but must not exceed the ML in Table 1, 2, or 3 for those analytes
which list ML values. Alternatively, the laboratory may establish a laboratory ML for each
analyte based on the concentration in a nominal whole-volume sample that is equivalent to
the concentration of the lowest calibration standard in a series of standards produced in the
laboratory or obtained from a commercial vendor. The laboratory’s ML must not exceed
the ML in Table 1, 2, or 3, and the resulting calibration must meet the acceptance criteria in
Section 7.2.3, based on the RSD, RSE, or R2. The concentrations of the other calibration

standards should correspond to the expected range of concentrations found in real samples
or should define the working range of the GC/MS system for full-scan and/or SIM
operation, as appropriate. A minimum of six concentration levels is required for a second
order, non-linear (e.g., quadratic; ax2 + bx + c = 0) calibration (Section 7.2.3). Calibrations
higher than second order are not allowed. To each calibration standard or standard mixture,
add a known constant volume of the internal standard solution (Section 6.9), and dilute to
volume with methylene chloride.
Note: The large number of analytes in Tables 1 through 3 may not be soluble or stable in
a single solution; multiple solutions may be required if a large number of analytes
are to be determined simultaneously.
7.2.1.1 Prior to analysis of the calibration standards, inject the DFTPP standard (Section
6.10) and adjust the scan rate of the mass spectrometer to produce a minimum of
5 mass spectra across the DFTPP GC peak. Adjust instrument conditions until
the DFTPP criteria in Table 9A or 9B are met. Calculate peak tailing factors for
benzidine and pentachlorophenol. Calculation of the tailing factor is illustrated
in Figure 1. The tailing factor for benzidine and pentachlorophenol must be <2;
otherwise, adjust instrument conditions and either replace the column or break
off a short section of the front end of the column, and repeat the test. Once the
scan conditions are established, they must be used for analyses of all standards,
blanks, and samples.
Note: The DFTPP spectrum may be evaluated by summing the intensities of the
m/z’s across the GC peak, subtracting the background at each m/z in a
region of the chromatogram within 20 scans of but not including any
part of, the DFTPP peak. The DFTPP spectrum may also be evaluated
by fitting a Gaussian to each m/z and using the intensity at the maximum
for each Gaussian or by integrating the area at each m/z and using the
integrated areas. Other means may be used for evaluation of the DFTPP
spectrum so long as the spectrum is not distorted to meet the criteria in
Table 9A or 9B.
7.2.1.2 Analyze the mid-point combined base/neutral and acid calibration standard and
enter or review the retention time, relative retention time, mass spectrum, and
quantitation m/z in the data system for each analyte of interest, surrogate, and
internal standard. If additional analytes (Table 3) are to be quantified, include
these analytes in the standard. The mass spectrum for each analyte must be
comprised of a minimum of 2 m/z’s (Tables 4 and 5); 3 to 5 m/z’s assure more
reliable analyte identification. Suggested quantitation m/z’s are shown in Tables
4 and 5 as the primary m/z. If an interference occurs at the primary m/z, use one
of the secondary m/z’s or an alternate m/z. A single m/z only is required for
quantitation.
7.2.1.3 For SIM operation, determine the analytes in each descriptor, the quantitation
m/z for each analyte (the quantitation m/z can be the same as for full-scan
operation; Section 7.2.1.2), the dwell time on each m/z for each analyte, and the
beginning and ending retention time for each descriptor. Analyze the verification
standard in scan mode to verify m/z’s and establish retention times for the
analytes. There must be a minimum of two m/z’s for each analyte to assure
analyte identification. To maintain sensitivity, the number of m/z’s in a
descriptor should be limited. For example, for a descriptor with 10 m/z’s and a

chromatographic peak width of 5 sec, a dwell time of 100 ms at each m/z would
result in a scan time of 1 second and provide 5 scans across the GC peak. The
quantitation m/z will usually be the most intense peak in the mass spectrum. The
quantitation m/z and dwell time may be optimized for each analyte. The
acquisition table used for SIM must take into account the mass defect (usually
less than 0.2 Dalton) that can occur at each m/z monitored. Refer to the
footnotes to Table 4 or 5 for establishing operating conditions and to Section
7.2.1.1 for establishing scan conditions.
7.2.1.4 For combined scan and SIM operation, set up the scan segments and descriptors
to meet requirements in Sections 7.2.1.1 - 7.2.1.3. Analyze unfamiliar samples
in the scan mode to assure that the analytes of interest are determined.
7.2.2 Analyze each calibration standard according to Section 12 and tabulate the area at the
quantitation m/z against concentration for each analyte of interest, surrogate, and internal
standard. If an interference is encountered, use a secondary m/z (Table 4 or 5) for
quantitation. Calculate a response factor (RF) for each analyte of interest at each
concentration using Equation 1.
Equation 1
(As xCis )
RF =
(Ais xCs )
where:
As = Area of the characteristic m/z for the analyte of interest or surrogate.
Ais = Area of the characteristic m/z for the internal standard.
Cis = Concentration of the internal standard (μg/mL).
Cs = Concentration of the analyte of interest or surrogate (μg/mL).
7.2.3 Calculate the mean (average) and relative standard deviation (RSD) of the responses
factors. If the RSD is less than 35%, the RF can be assumed to be invariant and the average
RF can be used for calculations. Alternatively, the results can be used to fit a linear or
quadratic regression of response ratios, As/Ais, vs. concentration ratios Cs/Cis. If used, the
regression must be weighted inversely proportional to concentration. The coefficient of
determination (R2; Reference 10) of the weighted regression must be greater than 0.920
(this value roughly corresponds to the RSD limit of 35%). Alternatively, the relative
standard error (Reference 11) may be used as an acceptance criterion. As with the RSD,
the RSE must be less than 35%. If an RSE less than 35% cannot be achieved for a
quadratic regression, system performance is unacceptable and the system must be adjusted
and re-calibrated.
Note: Using capillary columns and current instrumentation, it is quite likely that a
laboratory can calibrate the target analytes in this method and achieve a linearity
metric (either RSD or RSE) well below 35%. Therefore, laboratories are permitted
to use more stringent acceptance criteria for calibration than described here, for
example, to harmonize their application of this method with those from other
sources.
7.3 Calibration verification – The RF or calibration curve must be verified immediately after
calibration and at the beginning of each 12-hour shift, by analysis of a standard at or near the
concentration of the mid-point calibration standard (Section 7.2.1). The standard(s) must be
obtained from a second manufacturer or a manufacturer’s batch prepared independently from the
batch used for calibration. Traceability must be to a national standard, when available. Include the

surrogates (Section 6.8) in this solution. It is necessary to verify calibration for the analytes of
interest (Section 1.3) only.
Note: The 12-hour shift begins after the DFTPP (Section 13.1) and DDT/endrin tests (if DDT and
endrin are to be determined), and after analysis of the calibration verification standard.
The 12-hour shift ends 12 hours later. The DFTPP, DDT/endrin, and calibration
verification tests are outside of the 12-hour shift.
7.3.1 Analyze the calibration verification standard(s) beginning in Section 12. Calculate the
percent recovery of each analyte. Compare the recoveries for the analytes of interest
against the acceptance criteria for recovery (Q) in Table 6, and the recoveries for the
surrogates against the acceptance criteria in Table 8. If recovery of the analytes of interest
and surrogates meet acceptance criteria, system performance is acceptable and analysis of
samples may continue. If any individual recovery is outside its limit, system performance
is unacceptable for that analyte.
Note: The large number of analytes in Tables 6 and 8 present a substantial probability
that one or more will fail acceptance criteria when all analytes are tested
simultaneously.
7.3.2 When one or more analytes fail acceptance criteria, analyze a second aliquot of the
calibration verification standard and compare ONLY those analytes that failed the first test
(Section 7.3.1) with their respective acceptance criteria. If these analytes now pass, system
performance is acceptable and analysis of samples may continue. A repeat failure of any
analyte that failed the first test, however, will confirm a general problem with the
measurement system. If this occurs, repair the system (Section 7.2.1.1) and repeat the test
(Section 7.3.1), or prepare a fresh calibration standard and repeat the test. If calibration
cannot be verified after maintenance or injection of the fresh calibration standard, re-
calibrate the instrument.
Note: If it is necessary to perform a repeat verification test frequently; i.e., perform two
tests in order to pass, it may be prudent to perform two injections in succession and
review the results, rather than perform one injection, review the results, then
perform the second injection if results from the first injection fail. To maintain the
validity of the test and re-test, system maintenance and/or adjustment is not
permitted between the injections.
7.3.3 Many of the analytes in Table 3 do not have QC acceptance criteria in Table 6, and some of
the surrogates in Table 8 do not have acceptance criteria. If calibration is to be verified and
other QC tests are to be performed for these analytes, acceptance criteria must be developed
and applied. EPA has provided guidance for development of QC acceptance criteria
(References 12 and 13). Alternatively, analytes that do not have acceptance criteria in
Table 6 or Table 8 may be based on laboratory control charts, or 60 to 140% may be used.
7.3.4 Internal standard responses – Verify that detector sensitivity has not changed by comparing
the response of each internal standard in the calibration verification standard (Section 7.3)
to the response of the respective internal standard in the midpoint calibration standard
(Section 7.2.1). The peak areas or heights of the internal standards in the calibration
verification standard must be within 50% to 200% (1/2 to 2x) of their respective peak areas
or heights in the mid-point calibration standard. If not, repeat the calibration verification
test using a fresh calibration verification standard (7.3), or perform and document system
repair. Subsequent to repair, repeat the calibration verification test (Section 7.3.1). If the

responses are still not within 50% to 200%, re-calibrate the instrument (Section 7.2.2) and
repeat the calibration verification test.
8. Quality Control
8.1 Each laboratory that uses this method is required to operate a formal quality assurance program.
The minimum requirements of this program consist of an initial demonstration of laboratory
capability and ongoing analysis of spiked samples and blanks to evaluate and document data quality
(40 CFR 136.7). The laboratory must maintain records to document the quality of data generated.
Results of ongoing performance tests are compared with established QC acceptance criteria to
determine if the results of analyses meet performance requirements of this method. When results of
spiked samples do not meet the QC acceptance criteria in this method, a quality control check
sample (laboratory control sample; LCS) must be analyzed to confirm that the measurements were
performed in an in-control mode of operation. A laboratory may develop its own performance
criteria (as QC acceptance criteria), provided such criteria are as or more restrictive than the criteria
in this method.
8.1.1 The laboratory must make an initial demonstration of capability (DOC) to generate
acceptable precision and recovery with this method. This demonstration is detailed in
Section 8.2.
8.1.2 In recognition of advances that are occurring in analytical technology, and to overcome
matrix interferences, the laboratory is permitted certain options (Section 1.6 and 40 CFR
136.6(b)) to improve separations or lower the costs of measurements. These options may
include alternate extraction, concentration, and cleanup procedures (e.g., solid-phase
extraction; rotary-evaporator concentration; column chromatography cleanup), changes in
column and type of mass spectrometer (40 CFR 136.6(b)(4)(xvi)). Alternate determinative
techniques, such as substitution of spectroscopic or immunoassay techniques, and changes
that degrade method performance, are not allowed. If an analytical technique other than
GC/MS is used, that technique must have a specificity equal to or greater than the
specificity of GC/MS for the analytes of interest. The laboratory is also encouraged to
participate in inter-comparison and performance evaluation studies (see Section 8.10).
8.1.2.1 Each time a modification is made to this method, the laboratory is required to
repeat the procedure in Section 8.2. If the detection limit of the method will be
affected by the change, the laboratory must demonstrate that the MDLs (40 CFR
part 136, appendix B) are lower than one-third the regulatory compliance limit or
the MDLs in this method, whichever are greater. If calibration will be affected
by the change, the instrument must be recalibrated per Section 7. Once the
modification is demonstrated to produce results equivalent or superior to results
produced by this method, that modification may be used routinely thereafter, so
long as the other requirements in this method are met (e.g., matrix spike/matrix
spike duplicate recovery and relative percent difference).
8.1.2.1.1 If SPE, or another allowed method modification, is to be applied to a

specific discharge, the laboratory must prepare and analyze matrix
spike/matrix spike duplicate (MS/MSD) samples (Section 8.3) and
LCS samples (Section 8.4). The laboratory must include surrogates
(Section 8.7) in each of the samples. The MS/MSD and LCS samples
must be fortified with the analytes of interest (Section 1.3). If the
modification is for nationwide use, MS/MSD samples must be

prepared from a minimum of nine different discharges (See Section
8.1.2.1.2), and all QC acceptance criteria in this method must be met.
This evaluation only needs to be performed once other than for the
routine QC required by this method (for example it could be
performed by the vendor of the SPE materials) but any laboratory
using that specific material must have the results of the study
available. This includes a full data package with the raw data that will
allow an independent reviewer to verify each determination and
calculation performed by the laboratory (see Section 8.1.2.2.5, items a-
q).
8.1.2.1.2 Sample matrices on which MS/MSD tests must be performed for

nationwide use of an allowed modification:
(a) Effluent from a POTW
(b) ASTM D5905 Standard Specification for Substitute Wastewater
(c) Sewage sludge, if sewage sludge will be in the permit
(d) ASTM D1141 Standard Specification for Substitute Ocean Water,
if ocean water will be in the permit
(e) Untreated and treated wastewaters up to a total of nine matrix
types (see www.epa.gov/eg/industrial-effluent-guidelines for a list
of industrial categories with existing effluent guidelines).
At least one of the above wastewater matrix types must have at least
one of the following characteristics:
(i) Total suspended solids greater than 40 mg/L
(ii) Total dissolved solids greater than 100 mg/L
(iii) Oil and grease greater than 20 mg/L
(iv) NaCl greater than 120 mg/L
(v) CaCO3 greater than 140 mg/L
Results of MS/MSD tests must meet QC acceptance criteria in Section

8.3.
(f) A proficiency testing (PT) sample from a recognized provider, in

addition to tests of the nine matrices (Section 8.1.2.1.1).
8.1.2.2 The laboratory is required to maintain records of modifications made to this

method. These records include the following, at a minimum:
8.1.2.2.1 The names, titles, and business street addresses, telephone numbers,
and e-mail addresses, of the analyst(s) that performed the analyses and
modification, and of the quality control officer that witnessed and will
verify the analyses and modifications.
8.1.2.2.2 A list of analytes, by name and CAS Registry Number.
8.1.2.2.3 A narrative stating reason(s) for the modifications.
8.1.2.2.4 Results from all quality control (QC) tests comparing the modified
method to this method, including:
a) Calibration (Section 7).
b) Calibration verification (Section 7).

c) Initial demonstration of capability (Section 8.2).
d) Analysis of blanks (Section 8.5).
e) Matrix spike/matrix spike duplicate analysis (Section 8.3).
f) Laboratory control sample analysis (Section 8.4).
8.1.2.2.5 Data that will allow an independent reviewer to validate each

determination by tracing the instrument output (peak height, area, or
other signal) to the final result. These data are to include:
a) Sample numbers and other identifiers.
b) Extraction dates.
c) Analysis dates and times.
d) Analysis sequence/run chronology.
e) Sample weight or volume (Section 10).
f) Extract volume prior to each cleanup step (Sections 10 and 11).
g) Extract volume after each cleanup step (Section 11).
h) Final extract volume prior to injection (Sections 10 and 12).
i) Injection volume (Section 12.2.3).
j) Sample or extract dilution (Section 12.2.3.2).
k) Instrument and operating conditions.
l) Column (dimensions, material, etc.).
m) Operating conditions (temperature program, flow rate, etc.).
n) Detector (type, operating conditions, etc.).
o) Chromatograms, mass spectra, and other recordings of raw data.
p) Quantitation reports, data system outputs, and other data to link
the raw data to the results reported.
(q) A written Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)
8.1.2.2.6 Each individual laboratory wishing to use a given modification must

perform the start-up tests in Section 8.1.2 (e.g., DOC, MDL), with the
modification as an integral part of this method prior to applying the
modification to specific discharges. Results of the DOC must meet the
QC acceptance criteria in Table 6 for the analytes of interest (Section
1.3), and the MDLs must be equal to or lower than the MDLs in
Tables 1, 2, or 3 for the analytes of interest.
8.1.3 Before analyzing samples, the laboratory must analyze a blank to demonstrate that
interferences from the analytical system, labware, and reagents, are under control. Each
time a batch of samples is extracted or reagents are changed, a blank must be extracted and
analyzed as a safeguard against laboratory contamination. Requirements for the blank are
given in Section 8.5.
8.1.4 The laboratory must, on an ongoing basis, spike and analyze to monitor and evaluate
method and laboratory performance on the sample matrix. The procedure for spiking and
analysis is given in Section 8.3.
8.1.5 The laboratory must, on an ongoing basis, demonstrate through analysis of a quality control
check sample (laboratory control sample, LCS; on-going precision and recovery sample,
OPR) that the measurement system is in control. This procedure is given in Section 8.4.
8.1.6 The laboratory must maintain performance records to document the quality of data that is
generated. This procedure is given in Section 8.9.

8.1.7 The large number of analytes tested in performance tests in this method present a
substantial probability that one or more will fail acceptance criteria when many analytes are
tested simultaneously, and a re-test is allowed if this situation should occur. If, however,
continued re-testing results in further repeated failures, the laboratory must document and
report the failures (e.g., as qualifiers on results), unless the failures are not required to be
reported as determined by the regulatory/control authority. Results associated with a QC
failure for an analyte regulated in a discharge cannot be used to demonstrate regulatory
compliance. QC failures do not relieve a discharger or permittee of reporting timely
results.
8.2 Initial demonstration of capability (DOC) – To establish the ability to generate acceptable recovery
and precision, the laboratory must perform the DOC in Sections 8.2.1 through 8.2.6 for the analytes
of interest. The laboratory must also establish MDLs for the analytes of interest using the MDL
procedure at 40 CFR part 136, appendix B. The laboratory’s MDLs must be equal to or lower than
those listed in Tables 1, 2, or 3 or lower than one third the regulatory compliance limit, whichever
is greater. For MDLs not listed in Tables 4 and 5, the laboratory must determine the MDLs using
the MDL procedure at 40 CFR 136, Appendix B under the same conditions used to determine the
MDLs for the analytes listed in Tables 1, 2, and 3. All procedures used in the analysis, including
cleanup procedures, must be included in the DOC.
8.2.1 For the DOC, a QC check sample concentrate (LCS concentrate) containing each analyte of
interest (Section 1.3) is prepared in a water-miscible solvent. The QC check sample
concentrate must be prepared independently from those used for calibration, but may be
from the same source as the second-source standard used for calibration verification
(Section 7.3). The concentrate should produce concentrations of the analytes of interest in
water at the mid-point of the calibration range, and may be at the same concentration as the
LCS (Section 8.4). Multiple solutions may be required.
Note: QC check sample concentrates are no longer available from EPA.
8.2.2 Using a pipet or micro-syringe, prepare four LCSs by adding an appropriate volume of the
concentrate to each of four aliquots of reagent water, and mix well. The volume of reagent
water must be the same as the volume that will be used for the sample, blank (Section 8.5),
and MS/MSD (Section 8.3). A volume of 1-L and a concentration of 100 μg/L were used
to develop the QC acceptance criteria in Table 6. Also add an aliquot of the surrogate
spiking solution (Section 6.8) to the reagent-water aliquots.
8.2.3 Extract and analyze the four LCSs according to the method beginning in Section 10.
8.2.4 Calculate the average percent recovery (X�) and the standard deviation of the percent
recovery (s) for each analyte using the four results.
8.2.5 For each analyte, compare s and (X �) with the corresponding acceptance criteria for
precision and recovery in Table 6. For analytes in Table 3 not listed in Table 6, DOC QC
acceptance criteria must be developed by the laboratory. EPA has provided guidance for
development of QC acceptance criteria (References 12 and 13). Alternatively, acceptance
criteria for analytes not listed in Table 6 may be based on laboratory control charts. If s and
�) for all analytes of interest meet the acceptance criteria, system performance is
(X
acceptable and analysis of blanks and samples may begin. If any individual s exceeds the
precision limit or any individual (X �) falls outside the range for recovery, system
performance is unacceptable for that analyte.

Note: The large number of analytes in Tables 1 - 3 present a substantial probability that
one or more will fail at least one of the acceptance criteria when many or all
analytes are determined simultaneously. Therefore, the analyst is permitted to
conduct a “re-test” as described in Section 8.2.6.
8.2.6 When one or more of the analytes tested fail at least one of the acceptance criteria, repeat
the test for only the analytes that failed. If results for these analytes pass, system
performance is acceptable and analysis of samples and blanks may proceed. If one or more
of the analytes again fail, system performance is unacceptable for the analytes that failed
the acceptance criteria. Correct the problem and repeat the test (Section 8.2). See Section
8.1.7 for disposition of repeated failures.
Note: To maintain the validity of the test and re-test, system maintenance and/or
adjustment is not permitted between this pair of tests.
8.3 Matrix spike and matrix spike duplicate (MS/MSD) – The purpose of the MS/MSD requirement is
to provide data that demonstrate the effectiveness of the method as applied to the samples in
question by a given laboratory, and both the data user (discharger, permittee, regulated entity,
regulatory/control authority, customer, other) and the laboratory share responsibility for provision
of such data. The data user should identify the sample and the analytes of interest (Section 1.3) to
be spiked and provide sufficient sample volume to perform MS/MSD analyses. The laboratory
must, on an ongoing basis, spike at least 5% of the samples in duplicate from each discharge being
monitored to assess accuracy (recovery and precision). If direction cannot be obtained from the
data user, the laboratory must spike at least one sample in duplicate per extraction batch of up to 20
samples with the analytes in Table 1. Spiked sample results should be reported only to the data
user whose sample was spiked, or as requested or required by a regulatory/control authority, or in a
permit.
8.3.1 If, as in compliance monitoring, the concentration of a specific analyte will be checked
against a regulatory concentration limit, the concentration of the spike should be at that
limit; otherwise, the concentration of the spike should be one to five times higher than the
background concentration determined in Section 8.3.2, at or near the midpoint of the
calibration range, or at the concentration in the LCS (Section 8.4) whichever concentration
would be larger.
8.3.2 Analyze one sample aliquot to determine the background concentration (B) of the each
analyte of interest. If necessary, prepare a new check sample concentrate (Section 8.2.1)
appropriate for the background concentration. Spike and analyze two additional sample
aliquots, and determine the concentration after spiking (A1 and A2) of each analyte.
Calculate the percent recoveries (P1 and P2) as 100 (A1 - B) / T and 100 (A2 - B) / T,
where T is the known true value of the spike. Also calculate the relative percent difference
(RPD) between the concentrations (A1 and A2) as 200 |A1 - A2| / (A1 + A2). If necessary,
adjust the concentrations used to calculate the RPD to account for differences in the
volumes of the spiked aliquots.
8.3.3 Compare the percent recoveries (P1 and P2) and the RPD for each analyte in the MS/MSD
aliquots with the corresponding QC acceptance criteria in Table 6. A laboratory may
develop and apply QC acceptance criteria more restrictive than the criteria in Table 6, if
desired.

8.3.3.1 If any individual P falls outside the designated range for recovery in either
aliquot, or the RPD limit is exceeded, the result for the analyte in the unspiked
sample is suspect. See Section 8.1.7 for disposition of failures.
8.3.3.2 The acceptance criteria in Table 6 were calculated to include an allowance for
error in measurement of both the background and spike concentrations, assuming
a spike to background ratio of 5:1. This error will be accounted for to the extent
that the spike to background ratio approaches 5:1 (Reference 14) and is applied
to spike concentrations of 100 μg/L and higher. If spiking is performed at a
concentration lower than 100 μg/L, the laboratory must use the QC acceptance
criteria in Table 6, the optional QC acceptance criteria calculated for the specific
spike concentration in Table 7, or optional in-house criteria (Section 8.3.4). To
use the acceptance criteria in Table 7: (1) Calculate recovery (X’) using the
equation in Table 7, substituting the spike concentration (T) for C; (2) Calculate
�; (3)
overall precision (S') using the equation in Table 7, substituting X' for X
Calculate the range for recovery at the spike concentration as (100 X’/T) ±
2.44(100 S'/T)% (Reference 14). For analytes in Table 3 not listed in Table 6,
QC acceptance criteria must be developed by the laboratory. EPA has provided
guidance for development of QC acceptance criteria (References 12 and 13).
Alternatively, acceptance criteria may be based on laboratory control charts.
8.3.4 After analysis of a minimum of 20 MS/MSD samples for each target analyte and surrogate,
and if the laboratory chooses to develop and apply the optional in-house QC limits (Section
8.3.3), the laboratory should calculate and apply the optional in-house QC limits for
recovery and RPD of future MS/MSD samples (Section 8.3). The QC limits for recovery
are calculated as the mean observed recovery ± 3 standard deviations, and the upper QC
limit for RPD is calculated as the mean RPD plus 3 standard deviations of the RPDs. The
in-house QC limits must be updated at least every two years and re-established after any
major change in the analytical instrumentation or process. If in-house QC limits are
developed, at least 80% of the analytes tested in the MS/MSD must have in-house QC
acceptance criteria that are tighter than those in Table 6, and the remaining analytes (those
other than the analytes included in the 80%) must meet the acceptance criteria in Table 6.
If an in-house QC limit for the RPD is greater than the limit in Table 6, then the limit in
Table 6 must be used. Similarly, if an in-house lower limit for recovery is below the lower
limit in Table 6, then the lower limit in Table 6 must be used, and if an in-house upper limit
for recovery is above the upper limit in Table 6, then the upper limit in Table 6 must be
used.
8.4 Laboratory control sample (LCS) – A QC check sample (laboratory control sample, LCS; on-going
precision and recovery sample, OPR) containing each analyte of interest (Section 1.3) and surrogate
must be prepared and analyzed with each extraction batch of up to 20 samples to demonstrate
acceptable recovery of the analytes of interest from a clean sample matrix.
8.4.1 Prepare the LCS by adding QC check sample concentrate (Section 8.2.1) to reagent water.
Include all analytes of interest (Section 1.3) in the LCS. The LCS may be the same sample
prepared for the DOC (Section 8.2.1). The volume of reagent water must be the same as
the volume used for the sample, blank (Section 8.5), and MS/MSD (Section 8.3). Also add
an aliquot of the surrogate spiking solution (Section 6.8). The concentration of the analytes
in reagent water should be the same as the concentration in the DOC (Section 8.2.2).

8.4.2 Analyze the LCS prior to analysis of field samples in the extraction batch. Determine the
concentration (A) of each analyte. Calculate the percent recovery (PS) as 100 (A/T)%,
where T is the true value of the concentration in the LCS.
8.4.3 Compare the percent recovery (PS) for each analyte with its corresponding QC acceptance
criterion in Table 6. For analytes of interest in Table 3 not listed in Table 6, use the QC
acceptance criteria developed for the LCS (Section 8.4.5), or limits based on laboratory
control charts. If the recoveries for all analytes of interest fall within their respective QC
acceptance criteria, analysis of blanks and field samples may proceed. If any individual PS
falls outside the range, proceed according to Section 8.4.4.
Note: The large number of analytes in Tables 1 - 3 present a substantial probability that
one or more will fail the acceptance criteria when all analytes are tested
simultaneously. Because a re-test is allowed in event of failure (Sections 8.1.7 and
8.4.3), it may be prudent to extract and analyze two LCSs together and evaluate
results of the second analysis against the QC acceptance criteria only if an analyte
fails the first test.
8.4.4 Repeat the test only for those analytes that failed to meet the acceptance criteria (PS). If
these analytes now pass, system performance is acceptable and analysis of blanks and
samples may proceed. Repeated failure, however, will confirm a general problem with the
measurement system. If this occurs, repeat the test using a fresh LCS (Section 8.2.2) or an
LCS prepared with a fresh QC check sample concentrate (Section 8.2.1), or perform and
document system repair. Subsequent to analysis of the LCS prepared with a fresh sample
concentrate, or to system repair, repeat the LCS test (Section 8.4). If failure of the LCS
indicates a systemic problem with samples in the batch, re-extract and re-analyze the
samples in the batch. See Section 8.1.7 for disposition of repeated failures.
Note: To maintain the validity of the test and re-test, system maintenance and/or
adjustment is not permitted between the pair of tests.
8.4.5 After analysis of 20 LCS samples, and if the laboratory chooses to develop and apply in-
house QC limits, the laboratory should calculate and apply in-house QC limits for recovery
to future LCS samples (Section 8.4). Limits for recovery in the LCS should be calculated
as the mean recovery ±3 standard deviations. A minimum of 80% of the analytes tested for
in the LCS must have QC acceptance criteria tighter than those in Table 6, and the
remaining analytes (those other than the analytes included in the 80%) must meet the
acceptance criteria in Table 6. If an in-house lower limit for recovery is lower than the
lower limit in Table 6, the lower limit in Table 6 must be used, and if an in-house upper
limit for recovery is higher than the upper limit in Table 6, the upper limit in Table 6 must
be used. Many of the analytes and surrogates do not contain acceptance criteria. The
laboratory should use 60 - 140% as interim acceptance criteria for recoveries of spiked
analytes and surrogates that do not have recovery limits specified in Table 8, and at least
80% of the surrogates must meet the 60 - 140% interim criteria until in-house LCS and
surrogate limits are developed. Alternatively, acceptance criteria for analytes that do not
have recovery limits in Table 6 may be based on laboratory control charts. In-house QC
acceptance criteria must be updated at least every two years.
8.5 Blank – A blank must be extracted and analyzed with each extraction batch to demonstrate that the
reagents and equipment used for preparation and analysis are free from contamination.

8.5.1 Spike the surrogates into the blank. Extract and concentrate the blank using the same
procedures and reagents used for the samples, LCS, and MS/MSD in the batch. Analyze
the blank immediately after analysis of the LCS (Section 8.4) and prior to analysis of the
MS/MSD and samples to demonstrate freedom from contamination.
8.5.2 If an analyte of interest is found in the blank: 1) at a concentration greater than the MDL
for the analyte, 2) at a concentration greater than one-third the regulatory compliance limit,
or 3) at a concentration greater than one-tenth the concentration in a sample in the
extraction batch, whichever is greater, analysis of samples must be halted, and the problem
corrected. If the contamination is traceable to the extraction batch, samples affected by the
blank must be re-extracted and the extracts re-analyzed. If, however, continued re-testing
results in repeated blank contamination, the laboratory must document and report the
failures (e.g., as qualifiers on results), unless the failures are not required to be reported as
determined by the regulatory/control authority. Results associated with blank
contamination for an analyte regulated in a discharge cannot be used to demonstrate
regulatory compliance. QC failures do not relieve a discharger or permittee of reporting
timely results.
8.6 Internal standards responses
8.6.1 Calibration verification – The responses (GC peak heights or areas) of the internal
standards in the calibration verification must be within 50% to 200% (1/2 to 2x) of their
respective responses in the mid-point calibration standard. If they are not, repeat the
calibration verification (Section 7.4) test or perform and document system repair.
Subsequent to repair, repeat the calibration verification. If the responses are still not within
50% to 200%, re-calibrate the instrument (Section 7) and repeat the calibration verification
test.
8.6.2 Samples, blanks, LCSs, and MS/MSDs – The responses (GC peak heights or areas) of each
internal standard in each sample, blank, and MS/MSD must be within 50% to 200% (1/2 to
2x) of its respective response in the LCS for the extraction batch. If, as a group, all internal
standards are not within this range, perform and document system repair, repeat the
calibration verification (Section 8.4), and re-analyze the affected samples. If a single
internal standard is not within the 50% to 200% range, use an alternate internal standard for
quantitation of the analyte referenced to the affected internal standard. It may be necessary
to use the data system to calculate a new response factor from calibration data for the
alternate internal standard/analyte pair. If an internal standard fails the 50 - 200% criteria
and no analytes are detected in the sample, ignore the failure or report it if required by the
regulatory/control authority.
8.7 Surrogate recoveries – The laboratory must evaluate surrogate recovery data in each sample against
its in-house surrogate recovery limits. The laboratory may use 60 -140% as interim acceptance
criteria for recoveries for surrogates not listed in Table 8. At least 80% of the surrogates must meet
the 60 - 140% interim criteria until in-house limits are developed. Alternatively, surrogate recovery
limits may be developed from laboratory control charts, but such limits must be at least as
restrictive as those in Table 8. Spike the surrogates into all samples, blanks, LCSs, and MS/MSDs.
Compare surrogate recoveries against the QC acceptance criteria in Table 8 and/or those developed
in Section 7.3.3 or 8.4.5. If any recovery fails its criteria, attempt to find and correct the cause of
the failure. See Section 8.1.7 for disposition of failures.

8.8 DDT and endrin decomposition (breakdown) – If DDT and/or endrin are to be analyzed using this
method, the DDT/endrin decomposition test in Section 13.8 must be performed to reliably quantify
these two pesticides.
8.9 As part of the QC program for the laboratory, control charts or statements of accuracy for
wastewater samples must be assessed and records maintained (40 CFR 136.7(c)(1)(viii)). After
analysis of five or more spiked wastewater samples as in Section 8.3, calculate the average percent
recovery (Px) and the standard deviation of the percent recovery (sp). Express the accuracy
assessment as a percent interval from Px -2sp to Px +2sp. For example, if Px = 90% and sp = 10%,
the accuracy interval is expressed as 70 - 110%. Update the accuracy assessment for each analyte
on a regular basis (e.g., after each 5 - 10 new accuracy measurements). If desired, statements of
accuracy for laboratory performance, independent of performance on samples, may be developed
using LCSs.
8.10 It is recommended that the laboratory adopt additional quality assurance practices for use with this
method. The specific practices that are most productive depend upon the needs of the laboratory
and the nature of the samples. Field duplicates may be analyzed to assess the precision of
environmental measurements. Whenever possible, the laboratory should analyze standard reference
materials and participate in relevant performance evaluation studies.
9. Sample Collection, Preservation, and Handling
9.1 Collect samples as grab samples in amber or clear glass bottles, or in refrigerated bottles using
automatic sampling equipment. If clear glass is used, protect samples from light. Collect 1-L of
ambient waters, effluents, and other aqueous samples. If the sensitivity of the analytical system is
sufficient, a smaller volume (e.g., 250 mL), but no less than 100 mL, may be used. Conventional
sampling practices (Reference 15) should be followed, except that the bottle must not be pre-rinsed
with sample before collection. Automatic sampling equipment must be as free as possible of
polyvinyl chloride or other tubing or other potential sources of contamination. If needed, collect
additional sample(s) for the MS/MSD (Section 8.3).
9.2 Ice or refrigerate samples at ≤6 °C from the time of collection until extraction, but do not freeze. If
residual chlorine is present, add 80 mg of sodium thiosulfate per liter of sample and mix well. Any
method suitable for field use may be employed to test for residual chlorine (Reference 16). Add
more sodium sulfate if 80 mg/L is insufficient but do not add excess sodium thiosulfate. If sodium
thiosulfate interferes in the determination of the analytes, an alternate preservative (e.g., ascorbic
acid or sodium sulfite) may be used. If preservative has been added, shake the sample vigorously
for one minute. Maintain the hermetic seal on the sample bottle until time of analysis.
9.3 All samples must be extracted within 7 days of collection and sample extracts must be analyzed
within 40 days of extraction.
10. Extraction
10.1 This section contains procedures for separatory funnel liquid-liquid extraction (SFLLE) and
continuous liquid-liquid extraction (CLLE). SFLLE is faster, but may not be as effective as CLLE
for recovery of polar analytes such as phenol. SFLLE is labor intensive and may result in
formation of emulsions that are difficult to break. CLLE is less labor intensive, avoids emulsion
formation, but requires more time (18-24 hours) and more hood space, and may require more
solvent. The procedures assume base-neutral extraction followed by acid extraction. For some

matrices and analytes of interest, improved results may be obtained by acid-neutral extraction
followed by base extraction. A single acid or base extraction may also be performed. If an
extraction scheme alternate to base-neutral followed by acid extraction is used, all QC tests must be
performed and all QC acceptance criteria must be met with that extraction scheme as an integral
part of this method. Solid-phase extraction (SPE) may be used provided requirements in Section
8.1.2 are met.
10.2 Separatory funnel liquid-liquid extraction (SFLLE) and extract concentration
10.2.1 The SFLLE procedure below assumes a sample volume of 1 L. When a different sample
volume is extracted, adjust the volume of methylene chloride accordingly.
10.2.2 Mark the water meniscus on the side of the sample bottle for later determination of sample
volume. Pour the entire sample into the separatory funnel. Pipet the surrogate standard
spiking solution (Section 6.8) into the separatory funnel. If the sample will be used for the
LCS or MS or MSD, pipet the appropriate check sample concentrate (Section 8.2.1 or
8.3.2) into the separatory funnel. Mix well. Check the pH of the sample with wide-range
pH paper and adjust to pH 11 - 13 with sodium hydroxide solution.
10.2.3 Add 60 mL of methylene chloride to the sample bottle, seal, and shake for approximately
30 seconds to rinse the inner surface. Transfer the solvent to the separatory funnel and
extract the sample by shaking the funnel for two minutes with periodic venting to release
excess pressure. Allow the organic layer to separate from the water phase for a minimum
of 10 minutes. If the emulsion interface between layers is more than one-third the volume
of the solvent layer, the analyst must employ mechanical techniques to complete the phase
separation. The optimum technique depends upon the sample, but may include stirring,
filtration of the emulsion through glass wool or phase-separation paper, salting,
centrifugation, or other physical methods. Collect the methylene chloride extract in a flask.
If the emulsion cannot be broken (recovery of <80% of the methylene chloride), transfer
the sample, solvent, and emulsion into a continuous extractor and proceed as described in
Section 10.3.
10.2.4 Add a second 60-mL volume of methylene chloride to the sample bottle and repeat the
extraction procedure a second time, combining the extracts in the Erlenmeyer flask.
Perform a third extraction in the same manner.
10.2.5 Adjust the pH of the aqueous phase to less than 2 using sulfuric acid. Serially extract the
acidified aqueous phase three times with 60 mL aliquots of methylene chloride. Collect
and combine the extracts in a flask in the same manner as the base/neutral extracts.
Note: Base/neutral and acid extracts may be combined for concentration and analysis
provided all QC tests are performed and all QC acceptance criteria met for the
analytes of interest with the combined extract as an integral part of this method,
and provided that the analytes of interest are as reliably identified and quantified
as when the extracts are analyzed separately. If doubt exists as to whether
identification and quantitation will be affected by use of a combined extract, the
fractions must be analyzed separately.
10.2.6 For each fraction or the combined fractions, assemble a Kuderna-Danish (K-D)
concentrator by attaching a 10-mL concentrator tube to a 500-mL evaporative flask. Other
concentration devices or techniques may be used in place of the K-D concentrator so long
as the requirements in Section 8.2 are met.

10.2.7 For each fraction or the combined fractions, pour the extract through a solvent-rinsed
drying column containing about 10 cm of anhydrous sodium sulfate, and collect the extract
in the K-D concentrator. Rinse the Erlenmeyer flask and column with 20-30 mL of
methylene chloride to complete the quantitative transfer.
10.2.8 Add one or two clean boiling chips and attach a three-ball Snyder column to the
evaporative flask for each fraction (Section 10.2.7). Pre-wet the Snyder column by adding
about 1 mL of methylene chloride to the top. Place the K-D apparatus on a hot water bath
(60-65 °C) so that the concentrator tube is partially immersed in the hot water, and the
entire lower rounded surface of the flask is bathed with hot vapor. Adjust the vertical
position of the apparatus and the water temperature as required to complete the
concentration in 15-20 minutes. At the proper rate of distillation, the balls of the column
will actively chatter but the chambers will not flood with condensed solvent. When the
apparent volume of liquid reaches 1 mL or other determined amount, remove the K-D
apparatus from the water bath and allow to drain and cool for at least 10 minutes. Remove
the Snyder column and rinse the flask and its lower joint into the concentrator tube with 1 -
2 mL of methylene chloride. A 5-mL syringe is recommended for this operation. If the
sample will be cleaned up, reserve the K-D apparatus for concentration of the cleaned up
extract. Adjust the volume to 5 mL with methylene chloride and proceed to Section 11 for
cleanup; otherwise, further concentrate the extract for GC/MS analysis per Section 10.2.9
or 10.2.10.
10.2.9 Micro Kuderna-Danish concentration – Add another one or two clean boiling chips to the
concentrator tube for each fraction and attach a two-ball micro-Snyder column. Pre-wet the
Snyder column by adding about 0.5 mL of methylene chloride to the top. Place the K-D
apparatus on a hot water bath (60-65 °C) so that the concentrator tube is partially immersed
in hot water. Adjust the vertical position of the apparatus and the water temperature as
required to complete the concentration in 5-10 minutes. At the proper rate of distillation
the balls of the column will actively chatter but the chambers will not flood with condensed
solvent. When the apparent volume of liquid reaches about 1 mL or other determined
amount, remove the K-D apparatus from the water bath and allow it to drain and cool for at
least 10 minutes. Remove the Snyder column and rinse the flask and its lower joint into the
concentrator tube with approximately 0.2 mL of or methylene chloride. Adjust the final
volume to 1.0 mL or a volume appropriate to the sensitivity desired (e.g., to meet lower
MDLs or for selected ion monitoring). Record the volume, stopper the concentrator tube
and store refrigerated if further processing will not be performed immediately. If the
extracts will be stored longer than two days, they should be transferred to fluoropolymer-
lined screw-cap vials and labeled base/neutral or acid fraction as appropriate. Mark the
level of the extract on the vial so that solvent loss can be detected.
10.2.10 Nitrogen evaporation and solvent exchange – Extracts may be concentrated for analysis
using nitrogen evaporation in place of micro K-D concentration (Section 10.2.9). Extracts
that have been cleaned up using sulfur removal (Section 11.2) and are ready for analysis are
exchanged into methylene chloride.
10.2.10.1 Transfer the vial containing the sample extract to the nitrogen evaporation
(blowdown) device (Section 5.8). Lower the vial into the water bath and begin
concentrating. If the more volatile analytes (Section 1.2) are to be concentrated,
use room temperature for concentration; otherwise, a slightly elevated (e.g., 30 - 45
°C) may be used. During the solvent evaporation process, keep the solvent level
below the water level of the bath and do not allow the extract to become dry.

Adjust the flow of nitrogen so that the surface of the solvent is just visibly
disturbed. A large vortex in the solvent may cause analyte loss.
10.2.10.2 Extracts to be solvent exchanged – When the volume of the liquid is approximately
200 μL, add 2 to 3 mL of methylene chloride and continue concentrating to
approximately 100 μL. Repeat the addition of solvent and concentrate once more.
Adjust the final extract volume to be consistent with the volume extracted and the
sensitivity desired.
10.2.10.3 For extracts that have been cleaned up by GPC and that are to be concentrated to
a nominal volume of 1 mL, adjust the final volume to compensate the GPC loss.
For a 50% GPC loss, concentrate the extract to 1/2000 of the volume extracted.
For example, if the volume extracted is 950 mL, adjust the final volume to 0.48
mL. For extracts that have not been cleaned up by GPC and are to be
concentrated to a nominal volume of 1.0 mL, adjust the final extract volume to
1/1000 of the volume extracted. For example, if the volume extracted is 950 mL,
adjust the final extract volume to 0.95 mL. Alternative means of compensating
the loss during GPC are acceptable so long as they produce results as accurate as
results produced using the procedure detailed in this Section. An alternative final
volume may be used, if desired, and the calculations adjusted accordingly.
Note: The difference in the volume fraction for an extract cleaned up by GPC
accounts for the loss in GPC cleanup. Also, by preserving the ratio
between the volume extracted and the final extract volume, the
concentrations and detection limits do not need to be adjusted for
differences in the volume extracted and the extract volume.
10.2.11 Transfer the concentrated extract to a vial with fluoropolymer-lined cap. Seal the vial and
label with the sample number. Store in the dark at room temperature until ready for GC
analysis. If GC analysis will not be performed on the same day, store the vial in the dark at
≤6 °C. Analyze the extract by GC/MS per the procedure in Section 12.
10.2.12 Determine the original sample volume by refilling the sample bottle to the mark and
transferring the liquid to an appropriately sized graduated cylinder. For sample volumes on
the order of 1000 mL, record the sample volume to the nearest 10 mL; for sample volumes
on the order of 100 mL, record the volume to the nearest 1 mL. Sample volumes may also
be determined by weighing the container before and after filling to the mark with water.
10.3 Continuous liquid/liquid extraction (CLLE)
Note: With CLLE, phenol, 2,4-dimethyl phenol, and some other analytes may be preferentially
extracted into the base-neutral fraction. Determine an analyte in the fraction in which it is
identified and quantified most reliably. Also, the short-chain phthalate esters (e.g.,
dimethyl phthalate, diethyl phthalate) and some other compounds may hydrolyze during
prolonged exposure to basic conditions required for continuous extraction, resulting in low
recovery of these analytes. When these analytes are of interest, their recovery may be
improved by performing the acid extraction first.
10.3.1 Use CLLE when experience with a sample from a given source indicates an emulsion
problem, or when an emulsion is encountered during SFLLE. CLLE may be used for all
samples, if desired.

10.3.2 Mark the water meniscus on the side of the sample bottle for later determination of sample
volume. Check the pH of the sample with wide-range pH paper and adjust to pH 11-13
with sodium hydroxide solution. Transfer the sample to the continuous extractor. Pipet
surrogate standard spiking solution (Section 6.8) into the sample. If the sample will be
used for the LCS or MS or MSD, pipet the appropriate check sample concentrate (Section
8.2.1 or 8.3.2) into the extractor. Mix well. Add 60 mL of methylene chloride to the
sample bottle, seal, and shake for 30 seconds to rinse the inner surface. Transfer the
solvent to the extractor.
10.3.3 Repeat the sample bottle rinse with an additional 50-100 mL portion of methylene chloride
and add the rinse to the extractor.
10.3.4 Add a suitable volume of methylene chloride to the distilling flask (generally 200 - 500
mL), add sufficient reagent water to ensure proper operation, and extract for 18 - 24 hours.
A shorter or longer extraction time may be used if all QC acceptance criteria are met. Test
and, if necessary, adjust the pH of the water during the second or third hour of the
extraction. After extraction, allow the apparatus to cool, then detach the distilling flask.
Dry, concentrate, and seal the extract per Sections 10.2.6 through 10.2.11. See the note at
Section 10.2.5 regarding combining extracts of the base/neutral and acid fractions.
10.3.5 Charge the distilling flask with methylene chloride and attach it to the continuous extractor.
Carefully, while stirring, adjust the pH of the aqueous phase to less than 2 using sulfuric
acid. Extract for 18 - 24 hours. A shorter or longer extraction time may be used if all QC
acceptance criteria are met. Test and, if necessary, adjust the pH of the water during the
second or third hour of the extraction. After extraction, allow the apparatus to cool, then
detach the distilling flask. Dry, concentrate, and seal the extract per Sections 10.2.6
through 10.2.11. Determine the sample volume per Section 10.2.12.
11. Extract Cleanup
Note: Cleanup may not be necessary for relatively clean samples (e.g., treated effluents,
groundwater, drinking water). If particular circumstances require the use of a cleanup
procedure, the laboratory may use any or all of the procedures below or any other
appropriate procedure. Before using a cleanup procedure, the laboratory must
demonstrate that the requirements of Section 8.1.2 can be met using the cleanup procedure
as an integral part of this method.
11.1 Gel permeation chromatography (GPC)
11.1.1 Calibration
11.1.1.1 Load the calibration solution (Section 6.12) into the sample loop
11.1.1.2 Inject the calibration solution and record the signal from the detector. The
elution pattern will be corn oil, bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, pentachlorophenol,
perylene, and sulfur.
11.1.1.3 Set the “dump time” to allow >85% removal of the corn oil and >85% collection
of the phthalate.
11.1.1.4 Set the “collect time” to the peak minimum between perylene and sulfur.

11.1.1.5 Verify calibration with the calibration solution after every 20 or fewer extracts.
Calibration is verified if the recovery of the pentachlorophenol is greater than
85%. If calibration is not verified, recalibrate using the calibration solution, and
re-extract and clean up the preceding extracts using the calibrated GPC system.
11.1.2 Extract cleanup – GPC requires that the column not be overloaded. The column specified
in this method is designed to handle a maximum of 0.5 g of high molecular weight material
in a 5-mL extract. If the extract is known or expected to contain more than 0.5 g, the
extract is split into fractions for GPC and the fractions are combined after elution from the
column. The solids content of the extract may be obtained gravimetrically by evaporating
the solvent from a 50-µL aliquot.
11.1.2.1 Filter the extract or load through the filter holder to remove particulates. Load
the extract into the sample loop. The maximum capacity of the column is
0.5 - 1.0 g. If necessary, split the extract into multiple aliquots to prevent column
overload.
11.1.2.2 Elute the extract using the calibration data determined in Section 11.1.1. Collect
the eluate in the K-D apparatus reserved in Section 10.2.8.
11.1.3 Concentrate the cleaned up extract per Sections 10.2.8 and 10.2.9 or 10.2.10.
11.1.4 Rinse the sample loading tube thoroughly with methylene chloride between extracts to
prepare for the next sample.
11.1.5 If a particularly dirty extract is encountered, run a methylene chloride blank through the
system to check for carry-over.
11.2 Sulfur removal
Note: Separate procedures using copper or TBA sulfite are provided in this section for sulfur
removal. They may be used separately or in combination, if desired.
11.2.1 Removal with copper (Reference 17)
Note: If (1) an additional compound (Table 3) is to be determined; (2) sulfur is to be

removed; (3) copper will be used for sulfur removal; and (4) a sulfur matrix is
known or suspected to be present, the laboratory must demonstrate that the
additional compound can be successfully extracted and treated with copper in the
sulfur matrix. Some of the additional compounds (Table 3) are known not to be
amenable to sulfur removal with copper (e.g. Atrazine and Diazinon).
11.2.1.1 Quantitatively transfer the extract from Section 10.2.8 to a 40- to 50-mL flask or
bottle. If there is evidence of water in the concentrator tube after the transfer,
rinse the tube with small portions of hexane:acetone (40:60) and add to the flask
or bottle. Mark and set aside the concentrator tube for use in re-concentrating the
extract.
11.2.1.2 Add 10 - 20 g of granular anhydrous sodium sulfate to the flask. Swirl to dry the
extract.

11.2.1.3 Add activated copper (Section 6.13.1.4) and allow to stand for 30 - 60 minutes,
swirling occasionally. If the copper does not remain bright, add more and swirl
occasionally for another 30 - 60 minutes.
11.2.1.4 After drying and sulfur removal, quantitatively transfer the extract to a nitrogen-
evaporation vial or tube and proceed to Section 10.2.10 for nitrogen evaporation
and solvent exchange, taking care to leave the sodium sulfate and copper in the
flask.
11.2.2 Removal with TBA sulfite
11.2.2.1 Using small volumes of hexane, quantitatively transfer the extract to a 40- to 50-
mL centrifuge tube with fluoropolymer-lined screw cap.
11.2.2.2 Add 1 - 2 mL of TBA sulfite reagent (Section 6.13.2.4), 2 - 3 mL of 2-propanol,

and approximately 0.7 g of sodium sulfite (Section 6.13.2.2) crystals to the tube.
Cap and shake for 1 - 2 minutes. If the sample is colorless or if the initial color is
unchanged, and if clear crystals (precipitated sodium sulfite) are observed,
sufficient sodium sulfite is present. If the precipitated sodium sulfite disappears,
add more crystalline sodium sulfite in approximately 0.5 g portions until a solid
residue remains after repeated shaking.
11.2.2.3 Add 5 - 10 mL of reagent water and shake for 1 - 2 minutes. Centrifuge to settle
the solids.
11.2.2.4 Quantitatively transfer the hexane (top) layer through a small funnel containing a
few grams of granular anhydrous sodium sulfate to a nitrogen-evaporation vial or
tube and proceed to Section 10.2.10 for nitrogen evaporation and solvent
exchange.
12. Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry
12.1 Establish the operating conditions in Table 4 or 5 for analysis of a base/neutral or acid extract,
respectively. For analysis of a combined extract (Section 10.2.5, note), use the operating conditions
in Table 4 MDLs and MLs for the analytes are given in Tables 1, 2, and 3. Retention times for
many of the analytes are given in Tables 4 and 5. Examples of the separations achieved are shown
in Figure 2 for the combined extract. Alternative columns or chromatographic conditions may be
used if the requirements of Section 8.2 are met. Verify system performance per Section 13.
12.2 Analysis of a standard or extract
12.2.1 Bring the standard or concentrated extract (Section 10.2.9 or 10.2.11) to room temperature
and verify that any precipitate has redissolved. Verify the level on the extract and bring to
the mark with solvent if required.
12.2.2 Add the internal standard solution (Section 6.9) to the extract. Mix thoroughly.
12.2.3 Inject an appropriate volume of the sample extract or standard solution using split, splitless,
solvent purge, large-volume, or on-column injection. If the sample is injected manually the
solvent-flush technique should be used. The injection volume depends upon the technique
used and the ability to meet MDLs or reporting limits for regulatory compliance. Injected

volumes must be the same for standards and sample extracts. Record the volume injected
to two significant figures.
12.2.3.1 Start the GC column oven program upon injection. Start MS data collection after
the solvent peak elutes. Stop data collection after benzo(ghi)perylene elutes for
the base/neutral or combined fractions, or after pentachlorophenol elutes for the
acid fraction. Return the column to the initial temperature for analysis of the
next standard solution or extract.
12.2.3.2 If the concentration of any analyte of interest exceeds the calibration range, either
extract and analyze a smaller sample volume, or dilute and analyze the diluted
extract after bringing the concentrations of the internal standards to the levels in
the undiluted extract.
12.2.4 Perform all qualitative and quantitative measurements as described in Sections 14 and 15.
When standards and extracts are not being used for analyses, store them refrigerated at
≤6 °C protected from light in screw-cap vials equipped with un-pierced fluoropolymer-
lined septa.
13. Performance Tests
13.1 At the beginning of each 12-hour shift during which standards or extracts will be analyzed, perform
the tests in Sections 13.2 - 13.4 to verify system performance. If an extract is concentrated for
greater sensitivity (e.g., by SIM), all tests must be performed at levels consistent with the reduced
extract volume.
13.2 DFTPP – Inject the DFTPP standard (Section 6.10) and verify that the criteria for DFTPP in
Section 7.2.1.1 and Table 9A (Reference 18) for a quadrupole MS, or Table 9B (Reference 19) for
a time-of-flight MS, are met.
13.3 GC resolution – The resolution should be verified on the mid-point concentration of the initial
calibration as well as the laboratory designated continuing calibration verification level if closely
eluting isomers are to be reported (e.g., benzo(b)fluoranthene and benzo(k)fluoranthene).
Sufficient gas chromatographic resolution is achieved if the height of the valley between two
isomer peaks is less than 50% of the average of the two peak heights.
13.4 Calibration verification – Verify calibration per Sections 7.3 and Table 6.
13.5 Peak tailing – Verify the tailing factor specifications are met per Section 7.2.1.1.
13.6 Laboratory control sample and blank – Analyze the extracts of the LCS and blank at the beginning
of analyses of samples in the extraction batch (Section 3.1). The LCS must meet the requirements
in Section 8.4, and the blank must meet the requirements in Section 8.5 before sample extracts may
be analyzed.
13.7 Analysis of DFTPP, the DDT/Endrin decomposition test (if used), the LCS, and the blank are
outside of the 12-hour analysis shift (Section 3.1). The total time for DFTPP, DDT/Endrin, the
LCS, the blank, and the 12-hour shift must not exceed 15 hours.
13.8 Decomposition of DDT and endrin – If DDT and/or endrin are to be determined, this test must be
performed prior to calibration verification (Section 13.4). The QC acceptance criteria (Section

13.8.3) must be met before analyzing samples for DDE and/or Endrin. DDT decomposes to DDE
and DDD. Endrin decomposes to endrin aldehyde and endrin ketone.
13.8.1 Inject 1 µL of the DDT and endrin decomposition solution (Section 6.14). As noted in
Section 6.14, other injection volumes may be used as long as the concentrations of DDT
and endrin in the solution are adjusted to introduce the masses of the two analytes into the
instrument that are listed in Section 6.14.
13.8.2 Measure the areas of the peaks for DDT, DDE, DDD, Endrin, Endrin aldehyde, and Endrin
ketone. Calculate the percent breakdown as shown in the equations below:
sum of degradation peak areas (DDD + DDE)

% breakdown of DDT = x 100
sum of all peak areas (DDT + DDE + DDD)
sum of degradation peak areas (Endrin aldehyde + Endrin ketone)

% breakdown of Endrin = x 100
sum of all peak areas (Endrin + Endrin aldehyde + Endrin ketone)
13.8.3 Both the % breakdown of DDT and of Endrin must be less than 20%, otherwise the system
is not performing acceptably for DDT and endrin. In this case, repair the GC column
system that failed and repeat the performance tests (Sections 13.2 to 13.6) until the
specification is met.
Note: DDT and endrin decomposition are usually caused by accumulation of particulates
in the injector and in the front end of the column. Cleaning and silanizing the
injection port liner, and breaking off a short section of the front end of the column
will usually eliminate the decomposition problem. Either of these corrective
actions may affect retention times, GC resolution, and calibration linearity.
14. Qualitative Identification
14.1 Identification is accomplished by comparison of data from analysis of a sample or blank with data
stored in the GC/MS data system (Sections 5.6.5 and 7.2.1.2). Identification of an analyte is
confirmed per Sections 14.1.1 through 14.1.4.
14.1.1 The signals for the quantitation and secondary m/z’s stored in the data system for each
analyte of interest must be present and must maximize within the same two consecutive
scans.
14.1.2 The retention time for the analyte should be within ± 10 seconds of the analyte in the
calibration verification run at the beginning of the shift (Section 7.3 or 13.4).
Note: Retention time windows other than ± 10 seconds may be appropriate depending on
the performance of the gas chromatograph or observed retention time drifts due to
certain types of matrix effects.. Relative retention time (RRT) may be used as an
alternative to absolute retention times if retention time drift is a concern. RRT is a
unitless quantity (see Section 22.2), although some procedures refer to “RRT
units” in providing the specification for the agreement between the RRT values in
the sample and the calibration verification or other standard. When significant
retention time drifts are observed, dilutions or spiked samples may help the analyst
determine the effects of the matrix on elution of the target analytes and to assist in
qualitative identification.

14.1.3 Either (1) the background corrected EICP areas, or (2) the corrected relative intensities of
the mass spectral peaks at the GC peak maximum, must agree within 50% to 200% (1/2 to
2 times) for the quantitation and secondary m/z’s in the reference mass spectrum stored in
the data system (Section 7.2.1.2), or from a reference library. For example, if a peak has an
intensity of 20% relative to the base peak, the analyte is identified if the intensity of the
peak in the sample is in the range of 10% to 40% of the base peak. If identification is
ambiguous, an experienced spectrometrist (Section 1.7) must determine the presence or
absence of the compound.
14.2 Structural isomers that produce very similar mass spectra should be identified as individual isomers
if they have sufficiently different gas chromatographic retention times. Sufficient gas
chromatographic resolution is achieved if the height of the valley between two isomer peaks is less
than 50% of the average of the two peak heights. Otherwise, structural isomers are identified as
isomeric pairs.
15. Calculations
15.1 When an analyte has been identified, quantitation of that analyte is based on the integrated
abundance from the EICP of the primary characteristic m/z in Table 4 or 5. Calculate the
concentration in the extract using the response factor (RF) determined in Section 7.2.2 and
Equation 2. If the concentration of an analyte exceeds the calibration range, dilute the extract by
the minimum amount to bring the concentration into the calibration range, and re-analyze the
extract. Determine a dilution factor (DF) from the amount of the dilution. For example, if the
extract is diluted by a factor of 2, DF = 2.
Equation 2
As x Cis
Cex (µg/mL)=
Ais x RF
where:
Cex = Concentration of the analyte in the extract, in µg/mL, and the other terms are as defined in
Section 7.2.2.
Calculate the concentration of the analyte in the sample using the concentration in the extract, the
extract volume, the sample volume, and the dilution factor, per Equation 3:
Equation 3
Cex x Vex x DF
Csamp (µg/L) =
Vs
where:
Csamp = Concentration of the analyte in the sample
Cex = Concentration of the analyte in the extract, in µg/mL
Vex = Volume of extract (mL)
Vs = Volume of sample (L)
DF = Dilution factor
15.2 Reporting of results
As noted in Section 1.4.1, EPA has promulgated this method at 40 CFR part 136 for use in
wastewater compliance monitoring under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
(NPDES). The data reporting practices described here are focused on such monitoring needs and
may not be relevant to other uses of the method.

15.2.1 Report results for wastewater samples in μg/L without correction for recovery. (Other units
may be used if required by in a permit.) Report all QC data with the sample results.
15.2.2 Reporting level
Unless specified otherwise by a regulatory authority or in a discharge permit, results for

analytes that meet the identification criteria are reported down to the concentration of the
ML established by the laboratory through calibration of the instrument (see Section 7.3.2
and the glossary for the derivation of the ML). EPA considers the terms “reporting limit,”
“quantitation limit,” “limit of quantitation,” and “minimum level” to be synonymous.
15.2.2.1 Report a result for each analyte in each field sample or QC standard at or above
the ML to 3 significant figures. Report a result for each analyte found in each
field sample or QC standard below the ML as “<ML,” where ML is the
concentration of the analyte at the ML, or as required by the regulatory/control
authority or permit. Report a result for each analyte in a blank at or above the
MDL to 2 significant figures. Report a result for each analyte found in a blank
below the MDL as “<MDL,” where MDL is the concentration of the analyte at
the MDL, or as required by the regulatory/control authority or permit.
15.2.2.2 In addition to reporting results for samples and blanks separately, the
concentration of each analyte in a blank associated with the sample may be
subtracted from the result for that sample, but only if requested or required by a
regulatory authority or in a permit. In this case, both the sample result and the
blank results must be reported together.
15.2.2.3 Report a result for an analyte found in a sample or extract that has been diluted at
the least dilute level at which the area at the quantitation m/z is within the
calibration range (i.e., above the ML for the analyte) and the MS/MSD recovery
and RPD are within their respective QC acceptance criteria (Table 6). This may
require reporting results for some analytes from different analyses.
15.2.3 Results from tests performed with an analytical system that is not in control (i.e., that does
not meet acceptance criteria for any QC tests in this method) must be documented and
reported (e.g., as a qualifier on results), unless the failure is not required to be reported as
determined by the regulatory/control authority. Results associated with a QC failure cannot
be used to demonstrate regulatory compliance. QC failures do not relieve a discharger or
permittee of reporting timely results. If the holding time would be exceeded for a re-
analysis of the sample, the regulatory/control authority should be consulted for disposition.
16. Method Performance
16.1 The basic version of this method was tested by 15 laboratories using reagent water, drinking water,
surface water, and industrial wastewaters spiked at six concentrations over the range 5-1300 μg/L
(Reference 2). Single operator precision, overall precision, and method accuracy were found to be
directly related to the concentration of the analyte and essentially independent of the sample matrix.
Linear equations to describe these relationships are presented in Table 7.
16.2 As noted in Section 1.1, this method was validated through an interlaboratory study in the early
1980s. However, the fundamental chemistry principles used in this method remain sound and
continue to apply.

16.3 A chromatogram of the combined acid/base/neutral calibration standard is shown in Figure 2.
17. Pollution Prevention
17.1 Pollution prevention encompasses any technique that reduces or eliminates the quantity or toxicity
of waste at the point of generation. Many opportunities for pollution prevention exist in laboratory
operations. EPA has established a preferred hierarchy of environmental management techniques
that places pollution prevention as the management option of first choice. Whenever feasible, the
laboratory should use pollution prevention techniques to address waste generation. When wastes
cannot be reduced at the source, the Agency recommends recycling as the next best option.
17.2 The analytes in this method are used in extremely small amounts and pose little threat to the
environment when managed properly. Standards should be prepared in volumes consistent with
laboratory use to minimize the disposal of excess volumes of expired standards. This method
utilizes significant quantities of methylene chloride. Laboratories are encouraged to recover and
recycle this and other solvents during extract concentration.
17.3 For information about pollution prevention that may be applied to laboratories and research
institutions, consult Less is Better: Laboratory Chemical Management for Waste Reduction,
available from the American Chemical Society’s Department of Governmental Relations and
Science Policy, 1155 16th Street NW, Washington DC 20036, 202-872-4477.
18. Waste Management
18.1 The laboratory is responsible for complying with all Federal, State, and local regulations governing
waste management, particularly the hazardous waste identification rules and land disposal
restrictions, and to protect the air, water, and land by minimizing and controlling all releases from
fume hoods and bench operations. Compliance is also required with any sewage discharge permits
and regulations. An overview of requirements can be found in Environmental Management Guide
for Small Laboratories (EPA 233-B-98-001).
18.2 Samples at pH <2, or pH >12, are hazardous and must be handled and disposed of as hazardous
waste, or neutralized and disposed of in accordance with all federal, state, and local regulations. It
is the laboratory's responsibility to comply with all federal, state, and local regulations governing
waste management, particularly the hazardous waste identification rules and land disposal
restrictions. The laboratory using this method has the responsibility to protect the air, water, and
land by minimizing and controlling all releases from fume hoods and bench operations.
Compliance is also required with any sewage discharge permits and regulations. For further
information on waste management, see “The Waste Management Manual for Laboratory
Personnel,” also available from the American Chemical Society at the address in Section 17.3.
18.3 Many analytes in this method decompose above 500 ºC. Low-level waste such as absorbent paper,
tissues, and plastic gloves may be burned in an appropriate incinerator. Gross quantities of neat or
highly concentrated solutions of toxic or hazardous chemicals should be packaged securely and
disposed of through commercial or governmental channels that are capable of handling these types
of wastes.
18.4 For further information on waste management, consult The Waste Management Manual for
Laboratory Personnel and Less is Better-Laboratory Chemical Management for Waste Reduction,

available from the American Chemical Society’s Department of Government Relations and Science
Policy, 1155 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20036, 202-872-4477.
19. References
1. “Sampling and Analysis Procedures for Screening of Industrial Effluents for Priority Pollutants,” U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency, Environmental Monitoring and Support Laboratory, Cincinnati,
Ohio 45268, March 1977, Revised April 1977.
2. “EPA Method Study 30, Method 625, Base/Neutrals, Acids, and Pesticides,” EPA 600/4-84-053,
National Technical Information Service, PB84-206572, Springfield, Virginia 22161, June 1984.
3. 40 CFR part 136, appendix B.
4. Olynyk, P., Budde, W.L. and Eichelberger, J.W. “Method Detection Limit for Methods 624 and
625,” Unpublished report, May 14, 1980.
5. Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Volume 11.02, D3694-96, “Standard Practices for Preparation of
Sample Containers and for Preservation of Organic Constituents,” American Society for Testing and
Materials, Philadelphia.
6. Solutions to Analytical Chemistry Problems with Clean Water Act Methods, EPA 821-R-07-002,
March 2007.
7. “Carcinogens-Working With Carcinogens,” Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, Public

Health Service, Center for Disease Control, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health,
Publication No. 77-206, August 1977.
8. “OSHA Safety and Health Standards, General Industry,” (29 CFR part 1910), Occupational Safety
and Health Administration, OSHA 2206 (Revised, January 1976).
9. “Safety in Academic Chemistry Laboratories,” American Chemical Society Publication, Committee

on Chemical Safety, 7th Edition, 2003.
10. Johnson, R. A., and Wichern, D. W., “Applied Multivariate Statistical Analysis,” 3rd edition, Prentice
Hall, Englewood Cliffs, NJ, 1992.
11. 40 CFR 136.6(b)(4)(x)
12. 40 CFR 136.6(b)(2)(i)
13. Protocol for EPA Approval of New Methods for Organic and Inorganic Analytes in Wastewater and
Drinking Water (EPA-821-B-98-003) March 1999.
14. Provost, L.P. and Elder, R.S. “Interpretation of Percent Recovery Data,” American Laboratory, 15,
58-63 (1983). (The value 2.44 used in the equation in Section 8.3.3 is two times the value 1.22
derived in this report.)
15. ASTM Annual Book of Standards, Part 31, D3370-76. “Standard Practices for Sampling Water,”
American Society for Testing and Materials, Philadelphia.

16. 40 CFR 136.3(a), Table IB, Chlorine – Total Residual.
17. “Manual of Analytical Methods for the Analysis of Pesticides in Human and Environmental
Samples,” EPA-600/8-80-038, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Health Effects Research
Laboratory, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.
18. Eichelberger, J.W., Harris, L.E., and Budde, W.L. “Reference Compound to Calibrate Ion
Abundance Measurement in Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry,” Analytical Chemistry, 47,
995 (1975).
19. Letter of approval of acceptance criteria for DFTPP for time-of-flight mass spectrometers from
William A. Telliard and Herb Brass of EPA to Jack Cochran of LECO Corporation, February 9, 2005.

20. Tables
Table 1 – Non Pesticide/PCB Base/Neutral Extractables1

MDL4 ML5
Analyte CAS Registry (µg/L) (µg/L)
Acenaphthene 83-32-9 1.9 5.7
Acenaphthylene 208-96-8 3.5 10.5
Anthracene 120-12-7 1.9 5.7
Benzidine 2 92-87-5 44 132
Benzo(a)anthracene 56-55-3 7.8 23.4
Benzo(a)pyrene 50-32-8 2.5 7.5
Benzo(b)fluoranthene 205-99-2 4.8 14.4
Benzo(k)fluoranthene 207-08-9 2.5 7.5
Benzo(ghi)perylene 191-24-2 4.1 12.3
Benzyl butyl phthalate 85-68-7 2.5 7.5
bis(2-Chloroethoxy)methane 111-91-1 5.3 15.9
bis(2-Ethylhexyl)phthalate 117-81-7 2.5 7.5
bis(2-Chloroisopropyl) ether (2,2’-Oxybis[1-chloropropane]) 108-60-1 5.7 17.1
4-Bromophenyl phenyl ether 101-55-3 1.9 5.7
2-Chloronaphthalene 91-58-7 1.9 5.7
4-Chlorophenyl phenyl ether 7005-72-3 4.2 12.6
Chrysene 218-01-9 2.5 7.5
Dibenz(a,h)anthracene 53-70-3 2.5 7.5
Di-n-butylphthalate 84-74-2 2.5 7.5
3,3’-Dichlorobenzidine 91-94-1 16.5 49.5
Diethyl phthalate 84-66-2 1.9 5.7
Dimethyl phthalate 131-11-3 1.6 4.8
2,4-Dinitrotoluene 121-14-2 5.7 17.1
2,6-Dinitrotoluene 606-20-2 1.9 5.7
Di-n-octylphthalate 117-84-0 2.5 7.5
Fluoranthene 206-44-0 2.2 6.6
Fluorene 86-73-7 1.9 5.7
Hexachlorobenzene 118-74-1 1.9 5.7
Hexachlorobutadiene 87-68-3 0.9 2.7
Hexachloroethane 67-72-1 1.6 4.8
Indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene 193-39-5 3.7 11.1
Isophorone 78-59-1 2.2 6.6
Naphthalene 91-20-3 1.6 4.8
Nitrobenzene 98-95-3 1.9 5.7
N-Nitrosodi-n-propylamine 3 621-64-7 -- --
Phenanthrene 85-01-8 5.4 16.2
Pyrene 129-00-0 1.9 5.7
1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene 120-82-1 1.9 5.7
1
All analytes in this table are Priority Pollutants (40 CFR part 423, appendix A)
2
Included for tailing factor testing
3
See Section 1.2
4
MDL values from the 1984 promulgated version of Method 625
5
ML = Minimum Level – see Glossary for definition and derivation

Table 2--Acid Extractables1
MDL3 ML4
Analyte CAS Registry (µg/L) (µg/L)
4-Chloro-3-methylphenol 59-50-7 3.0 9.0
2-Chlorophenol 95-57-8 3.3 9.9
2,4-Dichlorophenol 120-83-2 2.7 8.1
2,4-Dimethylphenol 105-67-9 2.7 8.1
2,4-Dinitrophenol 51-28-5 42 126
2-Methyl-4,6-dinitrophenol 534-52-1 24 72
2-Nitrophenol 88-75-5 3.6 10.8
4-Nitrophenol 100-02-7 2.4 7.2
Pentachlorophenol 2 87-86-5 3.6 10.8
Phenol 108-95-2 1.5 4.5
2,4,6-Trichlorophenol 88-06-2 2.7 8.1
1
All analytes in this table are Priority Pollutants (40 CFR part 423, appendix A)
2
See Section 1.2; included for tailing factor testing
3
4
Table 3 – Additional Extractable Analytes1, 2

CAS MDL7 ML8
Analyte Registry (µg/L) (µg/L)
Acetophenone 98-86-2
2-Acetylaminofluorene 53-96-3
1-Acetyl-2-thiourea 591-08-2
Alachlor 15972-60-8
Aldrin 3 309-00-2 1.9 5.7
Ametryn 834-12-8
2-Aminoanthraquinone 117-79-3
Aminoazobenzene 60-09-3
4-Aminobiphenyl 92-67-1
3-Amino-9-ethylcarbazole 132-32-1
Anilazine 101-05-3
Aniline 62-53-3
o-Anisidine 90-04-0
Aramite 140-57-8
Atraton 1610-17-9
Atrazine 1912-24-9
Azinphos-methyl 86-50-0
Barban 101-27-9
Benzanthrone 82-05-3
Benzenethiol 108-98-5
Benzoic acid 65-85-0
2,3-Benzofluorene 243-17-4
p-Benzoquinone 106-51-4

CAS MDL7 ML8
Benzyl alcohol 100-51-6
alpha-BHC 3,4 319-84-6
beta-BHC 3 319-85-7 3.1 9.3
3,4
gamma-BHC (Lindane) 58-89-8 4.2 12.6
delta-BHC 3 319-86-8
Biphenyl 92-52-4
Bromacil 314-40-9
2-Bromochlorobenzene 694-80-4
3-Bromochlorobenzene 108-39-2
Bromoxynil 1689-84-5
Butachlor 2318-4669
Butylate 2008-41-5
n-C10 (n-decane) 124-18-5
n-C12 (n-undecane) 112-40-2
n-C14 (n-tetradecane) 629-59-4
n-C16 (n-hexadecane) 544-76-3
n-C18 (n-octadecane) 593-45-3
n-C20 (n-eicosane) 112-95-8
n-C22 (n-docosane) 629-97-0
n-C24 (n-tetracosane) 646-31-1
n-C26 (n-hexacosane) 630-01-3
n-C28 (n-octacosane) 630-02-4
n-C30 (n-triacontane) 638-68-6
Captafol 2425-06-1
Captan 133-06-2
Carbaryl 63-25-2
Carbazole 86-74-8
Carbofuran 1563-66-2
Carboxin 5234-68-4
Carbophenothion 786-19-6
Chlordane 3,5 57-74-9
3,4
bis(2-Chloroethyl) ether 111-44-4 5.7 17.1
Chloroneb 2675-77-6
4-Chloroaniline 106-47-8
Chlorobenzilate 510-15-6
Chlorfenvinphos 470-90-6
4-Chloro-2-methylaniline 95-69-2
3-(Chloromethyl)pyridine hydrochloride 6959-48-4
4-Chloro-2-nitroaniline 89-63-4
Chlorpropham 101-21-3
Chlorothalonil 1897-45-6
1-Chloronaphthalene 90-13-1
3-Chloronitrobenzene 121-73-3
4-Chloro-1,2-phenylenediamine 95-83-0

CAS MDL7 ML8
4-Chloro-1,3-phenylenediamine 5131-60-2
2-Chlorobiphenyl 2051-60-7
Chlorpyrifos 2921-88-2
Coumaphos 56-72-4
m+p-Cresol 65794-96-9
o-Cresol 95-48-7
p-Cresidine 120-71-8
Crotoxyphos 7700-17-6
2-Cyclohexyl-4,6-dinitro-phenol 131-89-5
Cyanazine 21725-46-2
Cycloate 1134-23-2
p-Cymene 99-87-6
Dacthal (DCPA) 1861-32-1
4,4’-DDD 3 72-54-8 2.8 8.4
3
4,4’-DDE 72-55-9 5.6 16.8
4,4’-DDT 3 50-29-3 4.7 14.1
Demeton-O 298-03-3
Demeton-S 126-75-0
Diallate (cis or trans) 2303-16-4
2,4-Diaminotoluene 95-80-7
Diazinon 333-41-5
Dibenz(a,j)acridine 224-42-0
Dibenzofuran 132-64-9
Dibenzo(a,e)pyrene 192-65-4
Dibenzothiophene 132-65-0
1,2-Dibromo-3-chloropropane 96-12-8
3,5-Dibromo-4-hydroxybenzonitrile 1689-84-5
2,6-Di-tert-butyl-p-benzoquinone 719-22-2
Dichlone 117-80-6
2,3-Dichloroaniline 608-27-5
2,3-Dichlorobiphenyl 16605-91-7
2,6-Dichloro-4-nitroaniline 99-30-9
2,3-Dichloronitrobenzene 3209-22-1
1,3-Dichloro-2-propanol 96-23-1
2,6-Dichlorophenol 120-83-2
Dichlorvos 62-73-7
Dicrotophos 141-66-2
Dieldrin 3 60-57-1 2.5 7.5
1,2:3,4-Diepoxybutane 1464-53-5
Di(2-ethylhexyl) adipate 103-23-1
Diethylstilbestrol 56-53-1
Diethyl sulfate 64-67-5
Dilantin (5,5-Diphenylhydantoin) 57-41-0
Dimethoate 60-51-5

CAS MDL7 ML8
3,3’-Dimethoxybenzidine 119-90-4
Dimethylaminoazobenzene 60-11-7
7,12-Dimethylbenz(a)anthracene 57-97-6
3,3’-Dimethylbenzidine 119-93-7
N,N-Dimethylformamide 68-12-2
3,6-Dimethylphenathrene 1576-67-6
alpha, alpha-Dimethylphenethylamine 122-09-8
Dimethyl sulfone 67-71-0
1,2-Dinitrobenzene 528-29-0
Dinocap 39300-45-3
Dinoseb 88-85-7
Diphenylamine 122-39-4
Diphenyl ether 101-84-8
1,2-Diphenylhydrazine 122-66-7
Diphenamid 957-51-7
Diphenyldisulfide 882-33-7
Disulfoton 298-04-4
Disulfoton sulfoxide 2497-07-6
Disulfoton sulfone 2497-06-5
Endosulfan I 3,4 959-98-8
Endosulfan II 3,4 33213-65-9
Endosulfan sulfate 3 1031-07-8 5.6 16.8
Endrin 3,4 72-20-8
Endrin aldehyde 3,4 7421-93-4
Endrin ketone 3,4 53494-70-5
EPN 2104-64-5
EPTC 759-94-4
Ethion 563-12-2
Ethoprop 13194-48-4
Ethyl carbamate 51-79-6
Ethyl methanesulfonate 65-50-0
Ethylenethiourea 96-45-7
Etridiazole 2593-15-9
Ethynylestradiol-3-methyl ether 72-33-3
Famphur 52-85-7
Fenamiphos 22224-92-6
Fenarimol 60168-88-9
Fensulfothion 115-90-2
Fenthion 55-38-9
Fluchloralin 33245-39-5
Fluridone 59756-60-4
Heptachlor 3 76-44-8 1.9 5.7

CAS MDL7 ML8
Heptachlor epoxide 3 1024-57-3 2.2 6.6
2,2’,3,3’,4,4’,6-Heptachlorobiphenyl 52663-71-5
2,2’,4,4’,5’,6-Hexachlorobiphenyl 60145-22-4
3,4
Hexachlorocyclopentadiene 77-47-4
Hexachlorophene 70-30-4
Hexachloropropene 1888-71-7
Hexamethylphosphoramide 680-31-9
Hexanoic acid 142-62-1
Hexazinone 51235-04-2
Hydroquinone 123-31-9
Isodrin 465-73-6
2-Isopropylnaphthalene 2027-17-0
Isosafrole 120-58-1
Kepone 143-50-0
Leptophos 21609-90-5
Longifolene 475-20-7
Malachite green 569-64-2
Malathion 121-75-5
Maleic anhydride 108-31-6
Merphos 150-50-5
Mestranol 72-33-3
Methapyrilene 91-80-5
Methoxychlor 72-43-5
2-Methylbenzothioazole 120-75-2
3-Methylcholanthrene 56-49-5
4,4’-Methylenebis(2-chloroaniline) 101-14-4
4,4’-Methylenebis(N,N-dimethylaniline) 101-61-1
4,5-Methylenephenanthrene 203-64-5
1-Methylfluorene 1730-37-6
Methyl methanesulfonate 66-27-3
2-Methylnaphthalene 91-57-6
Methylparaoxon 950-35-6
Methyl parathion 298-00-0
1-Methylphenanthrene 832-69-9
2-(Methylthio)benzothiazole 615-22-5
Metolachlor 5218-45-2
Metribuzin 21087-64-9
Mevinphos 7786-34-7
Mexacarbate 315-18-4
MGK 264 113-48-4
Mirex 2385-85-5
Molinate 2212-67-1
Monocrotophos 6923-22-4
Naled 300-76-5

CAS MDL7 ML8
Napropamide 15299-99-7
1,4-Naphthoquinone 130-15-4
1-Naphthylamine 134-32-7
2-Naphthylamine 91-59-8
1,5-Naphthalenediamine 2243-62-1
Nicotine 54-11-5
5-Nitroacenaphthene 602-87-9
2-Nitroaniline 88-74-4
5-Nitro-o-anisidine 99-59-2
4-Nitrobiphenyl 92-93-3
Nitrofen 1836-75-5
5-Nitro-o-toluidine 99-55-8
Nitroquinoline-1-oxide 56-57-5
N-Nitrosodi-n-butylamine 4 924-16-3
N-Nitrosodiethylamine 4 55-18-5
N-Nitrosodimethylamine 3,4 62-75-9
3,4
N-Nitrosodiphenylamine 86-30-6
N-Nitrosomethylethylamine 4 10595-95-6
N-Nitrosomethylphenylamine 4 614-00-6
N-Nitrosomorpholine 4 59-89-2
N-Nitrosopiperidine 4 100-75-5
N-Nitrosopyrrolidine 4 930-55-2
trans-Nonachlor 39765-80-5
Norflurazon 27314-13-2
2,2’,3,3’,4,5’,6,6’-Octachlorobiphenyl 40186-71-8
Octamethyl pyrophosphoramide 152-16-9
4,4’-Oxydianiline 101-80-4
Parathion 56-38-2
PCB-1016 3,5 12674-11-2
PCB-1221 3,5 11104-28-2 30 90
PCB-1232 3,5 11141-16-5
PCB-1242 3,5 53469-21-9
PCB-1248 3,5 12672-29-6
PCB-1254 3,5 11097-69-1 36 108
3,5
PCB-1260 11098-82-5
PCB-1268 3,5 11100-14-4
Pebulate 1114-71-2
Pentachlorobenzene 608-93-5
Pentachloronitrobenzene 82-68-8
2,2’,3,4’,6-Pentachlorobiphenyl 68194-05-8
Pentachloroethane 76-01-7
Pentamethylbenzene 700-12-9

CAS MDL7 ML8
Perylene 198-55-0
Phenacetin 62-44-2
cis-Permethrin 61949-76-6
trans-Permethrin 61949-77-7
Phenobarbital 50-06-6
Phenothiazene 92-84-2
1,4-Phenylenediamine 624-18-0
1-Phenylnaphthalene 605-02-7
2-Phenylnaphthalene 612-94-2
Phorate 298-02-2
Phosalone 2310-18-0
Phosmet 732-11-6
Phosphamidon 13171-21-6
Phthalic anhydride 85-44-9
alpha-Picoline (2-Methylpyridine) 109-06-8
Piperonyl sulfoxide 120-62-7
Prometon 1610-18-0
Prometryn 7287-19-6
Pronamide 23950-58-5
Propachlor 1918-16-7
Propazine 139-40-2
Propylthiouracil 51-52-5
Pyridine 110-86-1
Resorcinol (1,3-Benzenediol) 108-46-3
Safrole 94-59-7
Simazine 122-34-9
Simetryn 1014-70-6
Squalene 7683-64-9
Stirofos 22248-79-9
Strychnine 57-24-9
Styrene 9 100-42-5
Sulfallate 95-06-7
Tebuthiuron 34014-18-1
Terbacil 5902-51-2
Terbufos 13071-79-9
Terbutryn 886-50-0
alpha-Terpineol 98-55-5
1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene 95-94-3
2,2’,4,4’-Tetrachlorobiphenyl 2437-79-8
2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin 1746-01-6
2,3,4,6-Tetrachlorophenol 58-90-2
Tetrachlorvinphos 22248-79-9
Tetraethyl dithiopyrophosphate 3689-24-5
Tetraethyl pyrophosphate 107-49-3

CAS MDL7 ML8
Thianaphthene (2,3-Benzothiophene) 95-15-8
Thioacetamide 62-55-5
Thionazin 297-97-2
Thiophenol (Benzenethiol) 108-98-5
Thioxanthone 492-22-8
Toluene-1,3-diisocyanate 26471-62-5
Toluene-2,4-diisocyanate 584-84-9
o-Toluidine 95-53-4
Toxaphene 3,5 8001-35-2
Triadimefon 43121-43-3
1,2,3-Trichlorobenzene 87-61-6
2,4,5-Trichlorobiphenyl 15862-07-4
2,3,6-Trichlorophenol 933-75-5
2,4,5-Trichlorophenol 95-95-4
Tricyclazole 41814-78-2
Trifluralin 1582-09-8
1,2,3-Trimethoxybenzene 634-36-6
2,4,5-Trimethylaniline 137-17-7
Trimethyl phosphate 512-56-1
Triphenylene 217-59-4
Tripropyleneglycolmethyl ether 20324-33-8
1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene 99-35-4
Tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate 126-72-7
Tri-p-tolyl phosphate 78-32-0
O,O,O-Triethyl phosphorothioate 126-68-1
Trithiane 291-29-4
Vernolate 1929-77-7
1
Compounds that have been demonstrated amenable to extraction and gas chromatography
2
Determine each analyte in the fraction that gives the most accurate result
3
Priority Pollutant (40 CFR part 423, appendix A)
4
See Section 1.2
5
These compounds are mixtures of various isomers
6
Detected as azobenzene
7
8
9
Styrene may be susceptible to losses during sampling, preservation, and/or extraction of full-
volume (1 L) water samples. However, styrene is not regulated at 40 CFR part 136, and it is also
listed as an analyte in EPA Method 624.1 and EPA Method 1625C, where such losses may be less
than using Method 625.1.

Table 4 – Chromatographic Conditions and Characteristic m/z’s for Base/Neutral Extractables
Retention Characteristic m/z’s
Time Electron impact ionization Chemical ionization
1
Analyte (sec) Primary Secondary Secondary Methane
N-Nitrosodimethylamine 385 42 74 44 … … …
bis(2-Chloroethyl) ether 704 93 63 95 63 107 109
bis(2-Chloroisopropyl) ether 799 45 77 79 77 135 137
Hexachloroethane 823 117 201 199 199 201 203
N-Nitrosodi-n-propylamine 830 130 42 101 … … …
Nitrobenzene 849 77 123 65 124 152 164
Isophorone 889 82 95 138 139 167 178
bis(2-Chloroethoxy) methane 939 93 95 123 65 107 137
1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene 958 180 182 145 181 183 209
Naphthalene 967 128 129 127 129 157 169
Hexachlorobutadiene 1006 225 223 227 223 225 227
Hexachlorocyclopentadiene 1142 237 235 272 235 237 239
2-Chloronaphthalene 1200 162 164 127 163 191 203
Acenaphthylene 1247 152 151 153 152 153 181
Dimethyl phthalate 1273 163 194 164 151 163 164
2,6-Dinitrotoluene 1300 165 89 121 183 211 223
Acenaphthene 1304 154 153 152 154 155 183
2,4-Dinitrotoluene 1364 165 63 182 183 211 223
Fluorene 1401 166 165 167 166 167 195
4-Chlorophenyl phenyl ether 1409 204 206 141 … … …
Diethyl phthalate 1414 149 177 150 177 223 251
N-Nitrosodiphenylamine 1464 169 168 167 169 170 198
4-Bromophenyl phenyl ether 1498 248 250 141 249 251 277
alpha-BHC 1514 183 181 109 … … …
Hexachlorobenzene 1522 284 142 249 284 286 288
beta-BHC 1544 183 181 109 … … …
gamma-BHC 1557 181 183 109 … … …
Phenanthrene 1583 178 179 176 178 179 207
Anthracene 1592 178 179 176 178 179 207
delta-BHC 1599 183 109 181 … … …
Heptachlor 1683 100 272 274 … … …
Di-n-butyl phthalate 1723 149 150 104 149 205 279
Aldrin 1753 66 263 220
Fluoranthene 1817 202 101 100 203 231 243
Heptachlor epoxide 1820 353 355 351 … … …
gamma-Chlordane 1834 373 375 377 … … …
Pyrene 1852 202 101 100 203 231 243
Benzidine 2 1853 184 92 185 185 213 225
alpha-Chlordane 1854 373 375 377 … … …
Endosulfan I 1855 237 339 341 … … …
4,4’-DDE 1892 246 248 176 … … …
Dieldrin 1907 79 263 279 … … …
Endrin 1935 81 263 82 … … …

Table 4 – Chromatographic Conditions and Characteristic m/z’s for Base/Neutral Extractables
1
Endosulfan II 2014 237 339 341 … … …
4,4’-DDD 2019 235 237 165 … … …
Endrin aldehyde 2031 67 345 250 … … …
Butyl benzyl phthalate 2060 149 91 206 149 299 327
Endosulfan sulfate 2068 272 387 422 … … …
4,4’-DDT 2073 235 237 165 … … …
Chrysene 2083 228 226 229 228 229 257
3,3’-Dichlorobenzidine 2086 252 254 126 … … …
Benzo(a)anthracene 2090 228 229 226 228 229 257
bis(2-Ethylhexyl) phthalate 2124 149 167 279 149 … …
Di-n-octyl phthalate 2240 149 43 57 … … …
Benzo(b)fluoranthene 2286 252 253 125 252 253 281
Benzo(k)fluoranthene 2293 252 253 125 252 253 281
Benzo(a)pyrene 2350 252 253 125 252 253 281
Indeno(1,2,3-cd) pyrene 2650 276 138 277 276 277 305
Dibenz(a,h)anthracene 2660 278 139 279 278 279 307
Benzo(ghi)perylene 2750 276 138 277 276 277 305
Toxaphene … 159 231 233 … … …
PCB 1016 … 224 260 294 … … …
PCB 1221 … 190 224 260 … … …
PCB 1232 … 190 224 260 … … …
PCB 1242 … 224 260 294 … … …
PCB 1248 … 294 330 262 … … …
PCB 1254 … 294 330 362 … … …
PCB 1260 … 330 362 394 … … …
1
Column: 30 m x 0.25 mm ID; 94% methyl, 5% phenyl, 1% vinyl bonded phase fused silica capillary
Conditions: 5 min at 30 °C; 30 - 280 at 8°C per min; isothermal at 280 °C until benzo(ghi)perylene elutes
Gas velocity: 30 cm/sec at 30 °C (at constant pressure).
2
See Section 1.2; included for tailing factor testing

Table 5 – Chromatographic Conditions and Characteristic m/z’s for Acid Extractables
1
2-Chlorophenol 705 128 64 130 129 131 157
Phenol 700 94 65 66 95 123 135
2-Nitrophenol 900 139 65 109 140 168 122
2,4-Dimethylphenol 924 122 107 121 123 151 163
2,4-Dichlorophenol 947 162 164 98 163 165 167
4-Chloro-3-methylphenol 1091 142 107 144 143 171 183
2,4,6-Trichlorophenol 1165 196 198 200 197 199 201
2,4-Dinitrophenol 1325 184 63 154 185 213 225
4-Nitrophenol 1354 65 139 109 140 168 122
2-Methyl-4,6-dinitrophenol 1435 198 182 77 199 227 239
Pentachlorophenol 1561 266 264 268 267 265 269
1
Column: 30 m x 0.25 mm ID; 94% methyl, 5% phenyl, 1% vinyl bonded phase fused silica capillary
Conditions: 5 min at 30 °C; 30 - 250 at 8 °C per min; isothermal at 280 °C until pentachlorophenol elutes
Gas velocity: 30 cm/sec at 30 °C (at constant pressure)

Table 6 – QC Acceptance Criteria – Method 625 1
Limit
Range for Limit for s Range for Range for for RPD
Analyte Q (%) 2 (%) 3 X (%) 3 P1, P2(%) 3 (%)
Acenaphthene 70-130 29 60-132 47-145 48
Acenaphthylene 60-130 45 54-126 33-145 74
Aldrin 7-152 39 7-152 D-166 81
Anthracene 58-130 40 43-120 27-133 66
Benzo(a)anthracene 42-133 32 42-133 33-143 53
Benzo(b)fluoranthene 42-140 43 42-140 24-159 71
Benzo(k)fluoranthene 25-146 38 25-146 11-162 63
Benzo(a)pyrene 32-148 43 32-148 17-163 72
Benzo(ghi)perylene 13-195 61 D-195 D-219 97
Benzyl butyl phthalate 43-140 36 D-140 D-152 60
beta-BHC 42-131 37 42-131 24-149 61
delta-BHC D-130 77 D-120 D-120 129
bis(2-Chloroethyl)ether 52-130 65 43-126 12-158 108
bis(2-Chloroethoxy)methane 52-164 32 49-165 33-184 54
bis(2-Chloroisopropyl) ether 63-139 46 63-139 36-166 76
bis(2-Ethylhexyl) phthalate 43-137 50 29-137 8-158 82
4-Bromophenyl phenyl ether 70-130 26 65-120 53-127 43
2-Chloronaphthalene 70-130 15 65-120 60-120 24
4-Chlorophenyl phenyl ether 57-145 36 38-145 25-158 61
Chrysene 44-140 53 44-140 17-168 87
4,4’-DDD D-135 56 D-135 D-145 93
4,4’-DDE 19-130 46 19-120 4-136 77
4,4’-DDT D-171 81 D-171 D-203 135
Dibenz(a,h)anthracene 13-200 75 D-200 D-227 126
Di-n-butyl phthalate 52-130 28 8-120 1-120 47
3,3’-Dichlorobenzidine 18-213 65 8-213 D-262 108
Dieldrin 70-130 38 44-119 29-136 62
Diethyl phthalate 47-130 60 D-120 D-120 100
Dimethyl phthalate 50-130 110 D-120 D-120 183
2,4-Dinitrotoluene 53-130 25 48-127 39-139 42
2,6-Dinitrotoluene 68-137 29 68-137 50-158 48
Di-n-octyl phthalate 21-132 42 19-132 4-146 69
Endosulfan sulfate D-130 42 D-120 D-120 70
Endrin aldehyde D-189 45 D-189 D-209 75
Fluoranthene 47-130 40 43-121 26-137 66
Fluorene 70-130 23 70-120 59-121 38
Heptachlor D-172 44 D-172 D-192 74
Heptachlor epoxide 70-130 61 71-120 26-155 101
Hexachlorobenzene 38-142 33 8-142 D-152 55
Hexachlorobutadiene 68-130 38 38-120 24-120 62
Hexachloroethane 55-130 32 55-120 40-120 52

Table 6 – QC Acceptance Criteria – Method 625 1
Limit
Range for Limit for s Range for Range for for RPD
Analyte Q (%) 2 (%) 3 X (%) 3 P1, P2(%) 3 (%)
Indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene 13-151 60 D-151 D-171 99
Isophorone 52-180 56 47-180 21-196 93
Naphthalene 70-130 39 36-120 21-133 65
Nitrobenzene 54-158 37 54-158 35-180 62
N-Nitrosodi-n-propylamine 59-170 52 14-198 D-230 87
PCB-1260 19-130 77 19-130 D-164 128
Phenanthrene 67-130 24 65-120 54-120 39
Pyrene 70-130 30 70-120 52-120 49
1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene 61-130 30 57-130 44-142 50
4-Chloro-3-methylphenol 68-130 44 41-128 22-147 73
2-Chlorophenol 55-130 37 36-120 23-134 61
2,4-Dichlorophenol 64-130 30 53-122 39-135 50
2,4-Dimethylphenol 58-130 35 42-120 32-120 58
2,4-Dinitrophenol 39-173 79 D-173 D-191 132
2-Methyl-4,6-dinitrophenol 56-130 122 53-130 D-181 203
2-Nitrophenol 61-163 33 45-167 29-182 55
4-Nitrophenol 35-130 79 13-129 D-132 131
Pentachlorophenol 42-152 52 38-152 14-176 86
Phenol 48-130 39 17-120 5-120 64
2,4,6-Trichlorophenol 69-130 35 52-129 37-144 58
1
Acceptance criteria are based upon method performance data in Table 7 and from EPA Method 1625. Where
necessary, limits for recovery have been broadened to assure applicability to concentrations below those used to
develop Table 7.
2
Test concentration = 100 μg/mL
3
Test concentration = 100 μg/L
Q = Calibration verification (Sections 7.3.1 and 13.4)
s = Standard deviation for four recovery measurements in the DOC test (Section 8.2.4).
X = Average recovery for four recovery measurements in the DOC test (Section 8.2.4).
P1, P2 = MS/MSD recovery (Section 8.3.2, Section 8.4.2).
RPD = MS/MSD relative percent difference (RPD; Section 8.3.3).
D = Detected; result must be greater than zero.

Table 7 – Precision and Recovery as Functions of Concentration – Method 625 1
Single analyst Overall precision,
Analyte Recovery, X' (μg/L) precision, sr' (μg/L) S' (μg/L)
Acenaphthene 0.96C+0.19 0.15 X -0.12 0.21 X -0.67
Acenaphthylene 0.89C+0.74 0.24 X -1.06 0.26 X -0.54
Aldrin 0.78C+1.66 0.27 X -1.28 0.43 X +1.13
Anthracene 0.80C+0.68 0.21 X -0.32 0.27 X -0.64
Benzo(a)anthracene 0.88C-0.60 0.15 X +0.93 0.26 X -0.28
Benzo(b)fluoranthene 0.93C-1.80 0.22 X +0.43 0.29 X +0.96
Benzo(k)fluoranthene 0.87C-1.56 0.19 X +1.03 0.35 X +0.40
Benzo(a)pyrene 0.90C-0.13 0.22 X +0.48 0.32 X +1.35
Benzo(ghi)perylene 0.98C-0.86 0.29 X +2.40 0.51 X -0.44
Benzyl butyl phthalate 0.66C-1.68 0.18 X +0.94 0.53 X +0.92
beta-BHC 0.87C-0.94 0.20 X -0.58 0.30 X -1.94
delta-BHC 0.29C-1.09 0.34 X +0.86 0.93 X -0.17
bis(2-Chloroethyl)ether 0.86C-1.54 0.35 X -0.99 0.35 X +0.10
bis(2-Chloroethoxy)methane 1.12C-5.04 0.16 X +1.34 0.26 X +2.01
bis(2-Chloroisopropyl)ether 1.03C-2.31 0.24 X +0.28 0.25 X +1.04
bis(2-Ethylhexyl)phthalate 0.84C-1.18 0.26 X +0.73 0.36 X +0.67
4-Bromophenyl phenyl ether 0.91C-1.34 0.13 X +0.66 0.16 X +0.66
2-Chloronaphthalene 0.89C+0.01 0.07 X +0.52 0.13 X +0.34
4-Chlorophenyl phenyl ether 0.91C+0.53 0.20 X -0.94 0.30 X -0.46
Chrysene 0.93C-1.00 0.28 X +0.13 0.33 X -0.09
4,4’-DDD 0.56C-0.40 0.29 X -0.32 0.66 X -0.96
4,4’-DDE 0.70C-0.54 0.26 X -1.17 0.39 X -1.04
4,4’-DDT 0.79C-3.28 0.42 X +0.19 0.65 X -0.58
Dibenz(a,h)anthracene 0.88C+4.72 0.30 X +8.51 0.59 X +0.25
Di-n-butyl phthalate 0.59C+0.71 0.13 X +1.16 0.39 X +0.60
3,3’-Dichlorobenzidine 1.23C-12.65 0.28 X +7.33 0.47 X +3.45
Dieldrin 0.82C-0.16 0.20 X -0.16 0.26 X -0.07
Diethyl phthalate 0.43C+1.00 0.28 X +1.44 0.52 X +0.22
Dimethyl phthalate 0.20C+1.03 0.54 X +0.19 1.05 X -0.92
2,4-Dinitrotoluene 0.92C-4.81 0.12 X +1.06 0.21 X +1.50
2,6-Dinitrotoluene 1.06C-3.60 0.14 X +1.26 0.19 X +0.35
Di-n-octyl phthalate 0.76C-0.79 0.21 X +1.19 0.37 X +1.19
Endosulfan sulfate 0.39C+0.41 0.12 X +2.47 0.63 X -1.03
Endrin aldehyde 0.76C-3.86 0.18 X +3.91 0.73 X -0.62

Table 7 – Precision and Recovery as Functions of Concentration – Method 625 1
Single analyst Overall precision,
Analyte Recovery, X' (μg/L) precision, sr' (μg/L) S' (μg/L)
Fluoranthene 0.81C+1.10 0.22 X +0.73 0.28 X -0.60
Fluorene 0.90C-0.00 0.12 X +0.26 0.13 X +0.61
Heptachlor 0.87C-2.97 0.24 X -0.56 0.50 X -0.23
Heptachlor epoxide 0.92C-1.87 0.33 X -0.46 0.28 X +0.64
Hexachlorobenzene 0.74C+0.66 0.18 X -0.10 0.43 X -0.52
Hexachlorobutadiene 0.71C-1.01 0.19 X +0.92 0.26 X +0.49
Hexachloroethane 0.73C-0.83 0.17 X +0.67 0.17 X +0.80
Indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene 0.78C-3.10 0.29 X +1.46 0.50 X +0.44
Isophorone 1.12C+1.41 0.27 X +0.77 0.33 X +0.26
Naphthalene 0.76C+1.58 0.21 X -0.41 0.30 X -0.68
Nitrobenzene 1.09C-3.05 0.19 X +0.92 0.27 X +0.21
N-Nitrosodi-n-propylamine 1.12C-6.22 0.27 X +0.68 0.44 X +0.47
PCB-1260 0.81C-10.86 0.35 X +3.61 0.43 X +1.82
Phenanthrene 0.87C-0.06 0.12 X +0.57 0.15 X +0.25
Pyrene 0.84C-0.16 0.16 X +0.06 0.15 X +0.31
1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene 0.94C-0.79 0.15 X +0.85 0.21 X +0.39
4-Chloro-3-methylphenol 0.84C+0.35 0.23 X +0.75 0.29 X +1.31
2-Chlorophenol 0.78C+0.29 0.18 X +1.46 0.28 X +0.97
2,4-Dichlorophenol 0.87C+0.13 0.15 X +1.25 0.21 X +1.28
2,4-Dimethylphenol 0.71C+4.41 0.16 X +1.21 0.22 X +1.31
2,4-Dinitrophenol 0.81C-18.04 0.38 X +2.36 0.42 X +26.29
2-Methyl-4,6-Dinitrophenol 1.04C-28.04 0.05 X +42.29 0.26 X +23.10
2-Nitrophenol 1.07C-1.15 0.16 X +1.94 0.27 X +2.60
4-Nitrophenol 0.61C-1.22 0.38 X +2.57 0.44 X +3.24
Pentachlorophenol 0.93C+1.99 0.24 X +3.03 0.30 X +4.33
Phenol 0.43C+1.26 0.26 X +0.73 0.35 X +0.58
2,4,6-Trichlorophenol 0.91C-0.18 0.16 X +2.22 0.22 X +1.81
1
Regressions based on data from Reference 2
X' = Expected recovery for one or more measurements of a sample containing a concentration of C, in μg/L.
sr' = Expected single analyst standard deviation of measurements at an average concentration found of X , in μg/L.
S' = Expected interlaboratory standard deviation of measurements at an average concentration found of X , in
μg/L.
C = True value for the concentration, in μg/L.
X = Average recovery found for measurements of samples containing a concentration of C, in μg/L.

Table 8 – Suggested Internal and Surrogate Standards
Range for Surrogate Recovery (%) 1
Base/neutral fraction Calibration verification Recovery from samples
Acenaphthalene-d8 66 - 152 33 - 168
Acenaphthene-d10 71 - 141 30 - 180
Aniline-d5
Anthracene-d10 58 - 171 23 - 142
Benzo(a)anthracene-d12 28 - 357 22 - 329
Benzo(a)pyrene-d12 32 - 194 32 - 194
4-Chloroaniline-d4 1 - 145 1 - 145
bis(2-Chloroethyl) ether-d8 52 - 194 25 - 222
Chrysene-d12 23 - 290 23 - 290
Decafluorobiphenyl
4,4’-Dibromobiphenyl
4,4’-Dibromooctafluorobiphenyl
1,4-Dichlorobenzene-d4 65 - 153 11 - 245
2,2’-Difluorobiphenyl
Dimethyl phthalate-d6 47 - 211 1 - 500
Fluoranthene-d10 47 - 215 30 - 187
Fluorene-d10 61 - 164 38 - 172
4-Fluoroaniline
1-Fluoronaphthalene
2-Fluoronaphthalene
2-Methylnaphthalene-d10 50 - 150 50 - 150
Naphthalene-d8 71 - 141 22 - 192
Nitrobenzene-d5 46 - 219 15 - 314
2,3,4,5,6-Pentafluorobiphenyl
Perylene-d12
Phenanthrene-d10 67 - 149 34 - 168
Pyrene-d10 48 - 210 28 - 196
Pyridine-d5
Acid fraction
2-Chlorophenol-d4 55 - 180 33 - 180
2,4-Dichlorophenol-d3 64 - 157 34 - 182
4,6-Dinitro-2-methylphenol-d2 56 - 177 22 - 307
2-Fluorophenol
4-Methylphenol-d8 25 - 111 25 - 111
2-Nitrophenol-d4 61 - 163 37 - 163
4-Nitrophenol-d4 35 - 287 6 - 500
Pentafluorophenol
2-Perfluoromethylphenol
Phenol-d5 48 - 208 8 - 424
1
Recovery from samples is the wider of the criteria in the CLP SOW for organics or in Method 1625

Table 9A – DFTPP Key m/z’s and Abundance Criteria for Quadrupole Instruments 1
m/z Abundance criteria
51 30 - 60 percent of m/z 198
68 Less than 2 percent of m/z 69
127 40 - 60 percent of base peak m/z 198
198 Base peak, 100 percent relative abundance
199 5 - 9 percent of m/z 198
275 10 - 30 percent of m/z 198
365 Greater than 1 percent of m/z 198
441 Present but less than m/z 443
442 40 - 100 percent of m/z 198
443 17 - 23 percent of m/z 442
1
Criteria in these tables are for quadrupole and time-of-flight instruments. Alternative tuning criteria from other
published EPA reference methods may be used provided method performance is not adversely affected.
Alternative tuning criteria specified by an instrument manufacturer may also be used for another type of mass
spectrometer, provided method performance is not adversely affected.
Table 9B – DFTPP Key m/z’s and Abundance Criteria for Time-of-flight Instruments 1
m/z Abundance criteria
51 10 - 85 percent of the base peak
197 Less than 2 percent of Mass 198
198 Base peak, or greater than 50% of m/z 442
199 5 - 9 percent of m/z 198
365 Greater than 0.5 percent of m/z 198
442 Base peak or greater than 30 percent of m/z 198
443 15 - 24 percent of m/z 442
1
Criteria in these tables are for quadrupole and time-of-flight instruments. Alternative tuning criteria from other
published EPA reference methods may be used provided method performance is not adversely affected.
Alternative tuning criteria specified by an instrument manufacturer may also be used for another type of mass
spectrometer, or for an alternative carrier gas, provided method performance is not adversely affected.

21. Figures
Figure 1 Tailing factor calculation

Figure 2 Chromatogram of combined acid/base/neutral standard

22. Glossary
These definitions and purposes are specific to this method but have been conformed to common
usage to the extent possible.
22.1 Units of weight and measure and their abbreviations
22.1.1 Symbols
ºC degrees Celsius
µg microgram
μL microliter
< less than
≤ less than or equal to
> greater than
% percent
22.1.2 Abbreviations (in alphabetical order)
cm centimeter
g gram
h hour
ID inside diameter
in. inch
L liter
m mass or meter
mg milligram
min minute
mL milliliter
mm millimeter
ms millisecond
m/z mass-to-charge ratio
N normal; gram molecular weight of solute divided by hydrogen equivalent of solute,
per liter of solution
ng nanogram
pg picogram
ppb part-per-billion
ppm part-per-million
ppt part-per-trillion
psig pounds-per-square inch gauge
22.2 Definitions and acronyms (in alphabetical order)
Analyte – A compound or mixture of compounds (e.g., PCBs) tested for by this method. The
analytes are listed in Tables 1 - 3.
Batch – See Extraction
Blank – An aliquot of reagent water that is treated exactly as a sample including exposure to all
glassware, equipment, solvents, reagents, internal standards, and surrogates that are used with

samples. The blank is used to determine if analytes or interferences are present in the laboratory
environment, the reagents, or the apparatus.
Calibration – The process of determining the relationship between the output or response of a
measuring instrument and the value of an input standard. Historically, EPA has referred to a multi-
point calibration as the “initial calibration,” to differentiate it from a single-point calibration
verification.
Calibration standard – A solution prepared from stock solutions and/or a secondary standards and
containing the analytes of interest, surrogates, and internal standards. The calibration standard is
used to calibrate the response of the GC/MS instrument against analyte concentration.
Calibration verification standard – The mid-point calibration standard used to verify calibration.
See Sections 7.3 and 13.4.
Descriptor – In SIM, the beginning and ending retention times for the RT window, the m/z’s
sampled in the RT window, and the dwell time at each m/z.
Extracted ion current profile (EICP) – The line described by the signal at a given m/z.
Extraction Batch – A set of up to 20 field samples (not including QC samples) started through the
extraction process on a given 24-hour shift (Section 3.1). Each extraction batch must be
accompanied by a blank (Section 8.5), a laboratory control sample (LCS, Section 8.4), and a matrix
spike and duplicate (MS/MSD; Section 8.3), resulting in a minimum of five analyses (1 sample, 1
blank, 1 LCS, 1 MS, and 1 MSD) and a maximum of 24 analyses (20 field samples, 1 blank, 1 LCS,
1 MS, and 1 MSD) for the batch. If greater than 20 samples are to be extracted in a 24-hour shift,
the samples must be separated into extraction batches of 20 or fewer samples.
Field Duplicates – Two samples collected at the same time and place under identical conditions, and
treated identically throughout field and laboratory procedures. Results of analyses of the field
duplicates provide an estimate of the precision associated with sample collection, preservation, and
storage, as well as with laboratory procedures.
Field blank – An aliquot of reagent water or other reference matrix that is placed in a sample
container in the field, and treated as a sample in all respects, including exposure to sampling site
conditions, storage, preservation, and all analytical procedures. The purpose of the field blank is to
determine if the field or sample transporting procedures and environments have contaminated the
sample.
GC – Gas chromatograph or gas chromatography
Internal standard – A compound added to an extract or standard solution in a known amount and
used as a reference for quantitation of the analytes of interest and surrogates. In this method the
internal standards are stable isotopically labeled analogs of selected method analytes (Table 8).
Also see Internal standard quantitation.
Internal standard quantitation – A means of determining the concentration of an analyte of interest

(Tables 1 - 3) by reference to a compound not expected to be found in a sample.
DOC – Initial demonstration of capability (Section 8.2); four aliquots of reagent water spiked with
the analytes of interest and analyzed to establish the ability of the laboratory to generate acceptable

precision and recovery. A DOC is performed prior to the first time this method is used and any
time the method or instrumentation is modified.
Laboratory Control Sample (LCS; laboratory fortified blank; Section 8.4) – An aliquot of reagent
water spiked with known quantities of the analytes of interest and surrogates. The LCS is analyzed
exactly like a sample. Its purpose is to assure that the results produced by the laboratory remain
within the limits specified in this method for precision and recovery.
Laboratory fortified sample matrix – See Matrix spike
Laboratory reagent blank – A blank run on laboratory reagents; e.g., methylene chloride (Section
11.1.5).
Matrix spike (MS) and matrix spike duplicate (MSD) (laboratory fortified sample matrix and
duplicate) – Two aliquots of an environmental sample to which known quantities of the analytes of
interest and surrogates are added in the laboratory. The MS/MSD are prepared and analyzed
exactly like a field sample. Their purpose is to quantify any additional bias and imprecision caused
by the sample matrix. The background concentrations of the analytes in the sample matrix must be
determined in a separate aliquot and the measured values in the MS/MSD corrected for background
concentrations.
May – This action, activity, or procedural step is neither required nor prohibited.
May not – This action, activity, or procedural step is prohibited.
Method blank – See blank.
Method detection limit (MDL) – A detection limit determined by the procedure at 40 CFR part 136,
appendix B. The MDLs determined by EPA in the original version of the method are listed in
Tables 1, 2 and 3. As noted in Section 1.5, use the MDLs in Tables 1, 2, and 3 in conjunction with
current MDL data from the laboratory actually analyzing samples to assess the sensitivity of this
procedure relative to project objectives and regulatory requirements (where applicable).
Minimum level (ML) – The term “minimum level” refers to either the sample concentration
equivalent to the lowest calibration point in a method or a multiple of the method detection limit
(MDL), whichever is higher. Minimum levels may be obtained in several ways: They may be
published in a method; they may be based on the lowest acceptable calibration point used by a
laboratory; or they may be calculated by multiplying the MDL in a method, or the MDL determined
by a laboratory, by a factor of 3. For the purposes of NPDES compliance monitoring, EPA
considers the following terms to be synonymous: “quantitation limit,” “reporting limit,” and
“minimum level.”
MS – Mass spectrometer or mass spectrometry, or matrix spike (a QC sample type)
MSD – Matrix spike duplicate (a QC sample type)
Must – This action, activity, or procedural step is required.
m/z – The ratio of the mass of an ion (m) detected in the mass spectrometer to the charge (z) of that
ion
Preparation blank – See blank

Quality control check sample (QCS) – See Laboratory Control Sample
Reagent water – Water demonstrated to be free from the analytes of interest and potentially
interfering substances at the MDLs for the analytes in this method.
Regulatory compliance limit (or regulatory concentration limit) – A limit on the concentration or
amount of a pollutant or contaminant specified in a nationwide standard, in a permit, or otherwise
established by a regulatory/control authority.
Relative retention time (RRT) – The ratio of the retention time of an analyte to the retention time of
its associated internal standard. RRT compensates for small changes in the GC temperature
program that can affect the absolute retention times of the analyte and internal standard. RRT is a
unitless quantity.
Relative standard deviation (RSD) – The standard deviation times 100 divided by the mean. Also
termed “coefficient of variation.”
RF – Response factor. See Section 7.2.2.
RSD – See relative standard deviation
Safety Data Sheet (SDS) – Written information on a chemical’s toxicity, health hazards, physical
properties, fire, and reactivity, including storage, spill, and handling precautions that meet the
requirements of OSHA, 29 CFR 1910.1200(g) and appendix D to §1910.1200. United Nations
Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), third revised
edition, United Nations, 2009.
Selected Ion Monitoring (SIM) - An MS technique in which a few m/z’s are monitored. When used
with gas chromatography, the m/z’s monitored are usually changed periodically throughout the
chromatographic run, to correlate with the characteristic m/z’s of the analytes, surrogates, and
internal standards as they elute from the chromatographic column. The technique is often used to
increase sensitivity and minimize interferences.
Signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) – The height of the signal as measured from the mean (average) of the
noise to the peak maximum divided by the width of the noise.
Should – This action, activity, or procedural step is suggested but not required.
SPE – Solid-phase extraction; an extraction technique in which an analyte is extracted from an

aqueous solution by passage over or through a material capable of reversibly adsorbing the analyte.
Also termed liquid-solid extraction.
Stock solution – A solution containing an analyte that is prepared using a reference material
traceable to EPA, the National Institute of Science and Technology (NIST), or a source that will
attest to the purity, authenticity, and concentration of the standard.
Surrogate – A compound unlikely to be found in a sample, and which is spiked into sample in a
known amount before extraction or other processing, and is quantitated with the same procedures
used to quantify other sample components. The purpose of the surrogate is to monitor method
performance with each sample.

Method 625-1 2016

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Office of Water EPA 821-R-16-007

www.epa.gov December 2016

Method 625.1: Base/Neutrals and

Please address questions or comments to:

CWA Methods Team

1. Scope and Application

Method 625.1 1 December 2016

Method 625.1 2 December 2016

3. Contamination and Interferences

Method 625.1 3 December 2016

5. Apparatus and Materials

5.1 Sampling equipment, for discrete or composite sampling.

5.2.2 Drying column – Chromatographic column, approximately 400 mm long by 19 mm ID,

5.2.3 Concentrator tube, Kuderna-Danish – 10 mL, graduated (Kontes 570050-1025 or

Method 625.1 4 December 2016

5.2.5 Snyder column, Kuderna-Danish – Three-ball macro (Kontes 503000-0121 or equivalent).

5.2.6 Snyder column, Kuderna-Danish – Two-ball micro (Kontes 569001-0219 or equivalent).

5.2.8 Continuous liquid-liquid extractor – Equipped with fluoropolymer or glass connecting

5.5.1 Analytical, capable of accurately weighing 0.1 mg

5.5.2 Top loading, capable of accurately weighing 10 mg

5.6 GC/MS system

5.6.1 Gas chromatograph (GC) – An analytical system complete with a temperature

5.6.1.1 Injection port – Can be split, splitless, temperature programmable vaporization

Method 625.1 5 December 2016

5.7 Automated gel permeation chromatograph (GPC)

6.3 Sodium thiosulfate – (ACS) granular.

Method 625.1 6 December 2016

6.8 Surrogate standard spiking solution

6.9 Internal standard spiking solution

Method 625.1 7 December 2016

6.11 Quality control check sample concentrate – See Section 8.2.1.

6.12 GPC calibration solution

Method 625.1 8 December 2016

6.13.2 Tetrabutylammonium sodium sulfite (TBA sodium sulfite)

6.13.2.1 Tetrabutylammonium hydrogen sulfate, [CH3(CH2)3]4NHSO4

6.13.2.2 Sodium sulfite, Na2SO3

6.13.2.3 Dissolve approximately 3 g tetrabutylammonium hydrogen sulfate in 100 mL of

6.13.2.4 Add 25 g sodium sulfite to produce a saturated solution. Store at room

7.2 Internal standard calibration

Method 625.1 9 December 2016

Method 625.1 10 December 2016

Method 625.1 11 December 2016

Method 625.1 12 December 2016

8.1.2.1.1 If SPE, or another allowed method modification, is to be applied to a

Method 625.1 13 December 2016

8.1.2.1.2 Sample matrices on which MS/MSD tests must be performed for

Results of MS/MSD tests must meet QC acceptance criteria in Section

(f) A proficiency testing (PT) sample from a recognized provider, in

8.1.2.2 The laboratory is required to maintain records of modifications made to this

8.1.2.2.2 A list of analytes, by name and CAS Registry Number.

8.1.2.2.3 A narrative stating reason(s) for the modifications.

Method 625.1 14 December 2016

8.1.2.2.5 Data that will allow an independent reviewer to validate each

8.1.2.2.6 Each individual laboratory wishing to use a given modification must

Method 625.1 15 December 2016

Note: QC check sample concentrates are no longer available from EPA.

Method 625.1 16 December 2016

Method 625.1 17 December 2016

Method 625.1 18 December 2016