Lancaster Laboratories Environmental

Environmental NEWS - Summer 2007

Complexities of sediment analyses

The management of contaminated sediments is a complex and challenging task. Strategies for managing contaminated sediment sites should rely on evaluation and remediation strategies that are based on sound, quantitative and scientific approaches. To help assure that remedial action objectives (RAO) are met, Lancaster Laboratories has a variety analytical testing alternatives and experiences to offer.

• Sample handling that allows for analysis of high moisture samples without significantly affecting compound reporting limits.
• Sample extract clean-up strategies that enable our analysts to mitigate matrix interferences that can typically affect compound reporting limits. Gel permeation chromatography (GPC), silica gel chromatography, Florisil chromatography and acid clean-up are techniques typically employed.
• Selective ion monitoring to meet lower action levels for compounds of concern (COC).
• Elutriate evaluation and testing as a complement to dredging activities.
• Acid Volatile Sulfides/Simultaneously Extracted Metals (AVS/SEM) for analysis of metals in support of sediment sampling.
• Grain size/particle size by hydrometer in accordance with ASTM D-422.

Lancaster Laboratories can partner with clients to determine which analytical technologies are needed to meet RAOs. Put Lancaster Labs’ years of experience to work for you. Please contact Chuck Neslund at 717-656-2300, ext. 1819, for questions.