Typical Phthalate Ester Contamination Incurred Using EPA Method 8060*

Abstract

Abstract Methods for determination of trace levels of phthalate esters In environmental samples require procedures that avoid the Introduction of laboratory contaminants. Because It Is difficult to avoid contamination of samples with phthalate esters from laboratory reagents, materials, and glassware, we have undertaken a study to determine the sources, extent of contamination, and conditions under which background contamination can be minimized. Solvents such as acetone, hexane, diethyl ether, isooctane, and methylene chloride, and reagent water samples from various commercial suppliers were analyzed for 11 phthalate esters. Florlsll, alumina, silica gel, anhydrous sodium sulfate, filter paper, paper thimbles, glass wool, and aluminum foil were washed with organic solvents and the solvent washings were analyzed for 11 phthalate esters. Finally, we addressed the likelihood of contamination of laboratory glassware subjected to common laboratory cleanup procedures and the likelihood of contamination of hexane and Isooctane stored In sample vials of different sizes. The present study was conducted in conjunction with the single-laboratory evaluation of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) method 8060 for determination of phthalate esters in environmental samples.