The demand for ultratrace analysis stems from Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations that require the reporting of toxins at concentrations lower than 1 part per billion (ppb).1 Needless to say, this task requires sophisticated equipment not offered by many environmental groups. Enthalpy Analytical (Enthalpy) has the qualified staff and technology necessary to perform precise ultratrace measurements, which measure the presence of persistent organic pollutants and specifically focuses on polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins, polychlorinated dibenzofurans, polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congeners, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and poly- and perfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS).
A Step Above the Rest
Enthalpy utilizes high-resolution gas chromatography / high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRGC/HRMS) analysis to measure dioxins and furans because of the high sensitivity and selectivity this instrumentation provides, in accordance with EPA methods.2 The vast experience of Enthalpy working in accordance with federal standards and methods makes for easy navigation through complex regulations.
The Enthalpy lab is special in its ability to report a larger range of dioxins and furans compared with most other environmental laboratories. In addition to analytical testing services, Enthalpy often provides assistance to clients seeking to understand potential sources of these dioxins and furans. When faced with complex and unusual projects such as measuring persistent organic pollutants, Enthalpy leverages state-of-the-art isotope dilution technology for accurate, reliable, and quality measurements.
Enthalpy has received National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (NELAP) Certifications in Louisiana, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Virginia, as well as Pennsylvania state lab registration. For each client, Enthalpy may leverage an unparalleled knowledge of EPA, NCASI, and state methods, regulations, and standards. These certification throughout the United States set Enthalpy apart from the competition.
“The Enthalpy Analytical team helps customers obtain and understand their data by purpose-planning from the beginning.”
Enthalpy also uniquely blends toxicology and chemistry through advanced technology, mixed with the team’s experience and dedication. This synthesis is integral when dealing with methods as complex and multi-disciplinary as those required with ultratrace testing, which distinguishes Enthalpy in this field.
Pairing the expertise of Enthalpy with top-notch customer service creates an unmatched service experience for clients. Enthalpy scientists apply industry-leading experience to ensure that measurement programs meet customer requirements. The Enthalpy team helps customers obtain and understand their data by purpose-planning from the beginning. By specifying the needed analysis, as well as the tolerable upper limit on the results and maximum uncertainty, Enthalpy may recommend the required sample size to receive the desired data quality.
A Project-based Approach
Each Enthalpy laboratory has an experienced team of scientists and project managers who assist clients through the entire data acquisition process. Unlike other “full-service labs,” each Enthalpy team takes a project-specific approach to ensure results reflect their insight and acumen. Never satisfied with simply doing analyses the same way as everyone else, Enthalpy scientists’ expertise and acute attention to detail drives them to always go that extra step. For instance, if standard methods and guidance mandate the analysis of a particular range of dioxins (eg, 2,3,7,8-chlorinated dioxins), then Enthalpy goes even further, presenting its clients with a far more encompassing analysis.
Ultratrace testing at Enthalpy will continually expand as it moves into the future and, through innovation and real project experience, will stay at the forefront. Enthalpy’s focus will continue to be, as in the past, on providing the most reliable service in the industry in terms of turnaround time, data quality, and value-added services, such as the examination of results for insights that serve customers in solving problems.
- Ortner HM. Ultratrace analysis — facts and fiction. Fresenius J Anal Chem. 1992;343(9-10):695-704.
- Worrall K, Newton A, Rao R; Waters Corporation. The analysis of Dioxins and furans using HRGC-High Resolution MS with the AutoSpec-Ultima NT. http://www.waters.com/webassets/cms/library/docs/720000556en.pdf Published June 2007. Accessed October 1, 2018.
