Mass Spectrometry

Volatile organic solvents are widely used in industrial processes because of their ability to dissolve fats, oils, waxes, paints, pigments, grease, varnishes, rubber, polymers, and other materials. The organic compounds in these solvents have been determined to be highly toxic. The Mass Spectrometry Section of the Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Division provides analytical support for the detection of these compounds at the nation's most hazardous waste sites. Experience with the Environmental Protection Agency's Contract Laboratory Protocol (CLP) and Region VII Environmental Collection and Analysis Program (RECAP) pilot program provide a foundation for complete analysis and assessment.

Shraddha Quarderer, Senior Research Scientist

Technical strengths in the section include:

• Determining the presence of hazardous organic compounds in air, soil, water, sediment, hazardous waste, biota, and biological samples using gas chromatographic/mass spectrometric techniques
  
  
• Air analysis by enhanced technology collecting air and soil gas samples in pre-evacuated Summa-passivated stainless steel canisters
  
  
• A 32-foot mobile laboratory for quick turnaround results and real-time analysis, site assessment, human exposure study, biotreatability study,  or identification of hazardous samples which may not be shipped under normal conditions
  
  
• Technology support for research and development projects with government agencies and private industry for a multitude of analytical needs
  
  
• Accelerated exposure testing utilizing a multitude of gaseous contaminants and atmospheric conditions to satisfy a variety of testing requirements including NEBS.

Division Publications

Analytical and Environmental Chemistry Department
Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Division
SwRI Technical Divisions SwRI Home

March 25, 2013