EPA 200.8 Determination of Trace Elements in Waters and Wastes by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry

EPA Method 200.8 outlines the procedures for determining the concentrations of dissolved elements in ground waters, surface waters, and drinking water, as well as total recoverable elements in wastewaters, sludges, and soils. The method employs Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) to measure a range of elements, including aluminum, antimony, arsenic, barium, beryllium, cadmium, chromium, cobalt, copper, lead, manganese, mercury, molybdenum, nickel, selenium, silver, thallium, thorium, uranium, vanadium, and zinc.

The relevance of the parameters in this method lies in their potential impact on environmental and human health. Many of the elements listed in EPA 200.8 are toxic and can pose significant health risks if present in high concentrations. For example, arsenic and lead are known to cause severe health issues, including cancer and neurological damage, while mercury can affect the nervous system. By accurately measuring the concentrations of these elements, the method helps to ensure that water and waste samples meet safety and regulatory standards.

This method provides a standardized and highly sensitive technique for detecting trace elements in various matrices. The use of ICP-MS allows for the simultaneous determination of multiple elements at very low detection limits, making it a powerful tool for environmental monitoring and assessment. This is crucial for ensuring the safety of drinking water and the proper management of waste materials.

The method further supports regulatory compliance with environmental laws such as the Clean Water Act and the Safe Drinking Water Act. By providing a reliable means of measuring trace elements, EPA 200.8 helps to ensure that water quality standards are met and that potential sources of contamination are identified and addressed. This is essential for protecting public health and the environment.

In summary, EPA 200.8 is a vital standard for the determination of trace elements in waters and wastes. It provides a consistent and reliable method for measuring and reporting the concentrations of potentially harmful elements, supporting environmental monitoring, regulatory compliance, and public health protection.

With the PlasmaQuant MS series Analytik Jena offers a powerful, reliable and compliant solution for ICP-MS to fulfill the requirements of the EPA 200.8.

Our solutions for EPA 200.8

Sources

• EPA 200.8 - Determination of Trace Elements in Waters and Wastes by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry