Examination of Surface Water Samples Using Gas Chromatography-Atomic Emission Detection

Abstract

In two separate pesticide monitoring studies, surface water samples were collected from different locations in southern Ontario. Following clean up, the extracts were initially analyzed for selected P-containing pesticides using capillary column GC equipped with N/P and ECD detectors. These extracts were subsequently analyzed by GC-AED for C-, S-, N-, P- and O-containing compounds. All target compounds identified by GC-NPD/ECD analysis were detected using the GC-AED technique. Concentrations of the target compounds were comparable as calculated from the results of both methods of analysis. Additional non-target compounds containing S and N were identified in the samples. The peaks were collated with respect to retention time and response. One of these compounds, benzothiazole, was found in 27 of the 34 samples.