1.1 This guide covers the identification and quantitation of organic compounds by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC-MS) (electron impact) that are present or extracted from water and are capable of passing through a gas chromatograph without alteration. This guide can be used to provide tentative identifications of volatile and semi-volatile organics, but is restricted to (a) compounds for which reference spectra can be obtained and (b) compounds that can be separated by gas chromatography (GC). These restrictions are imposed on the guide, but are not a limitation of the technique. The guide is written for analysis using automated data acquisition and handling.

1.2 Guidelines have been included for quantitation using ASTM Test Methods D3871, D3973, and other GC-MS volatile/semivolatile procedures used for environmental analysis2. The actual detection limits for each component must be determined in each laboratory. Actual detection amounts will vary with the complexity of the matrix, the kind and condition of the GC-MS system, the sample preparation technique chosen, and the application of cleanup techniques to the sample extract, if any. Lower levels of detection can be achieved using modern sensitive instruments or with selected ion monitoring (SIM). To determine the interlaboratory detection estimate (IDE) and the interlaboratory quantitation estimate (IQE), follow Practices D6091 and D6512.

1.3 The guide is applicable to the identification of many organic constituents of natural and treated waters. It includes all modes of sample introduction, including injection of organic extracts, direct aqueous injection, and purge and trap techniques.

1.4 The guide is applicable to capillary column gas chromatography.

1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.