Environmental Express Soil-Cell - Manual (Page 5)

800.745.8218 / 843.576.1147 / www.environmentalexpress.com Environmental Express • 3
Soil-Cell: Operation and Instruction Manual Adaptation of EPA Method 3546
1.0 Scope and Application
1.1 The following procedures have been written as an aid to EPA SW846
Method 3546 for use with the Environmental Express HotBlock TM . EPA
SW846 Method 3546 is a procedure for extracting water insoluble or
slightly water soluble organic compounds from soils, clays, sediments,
sludges, and other solid wastes. Prior to using this method, users are
advised to consult the determinative method for additional information
on quality control procedures, development of QC acceptance criteria,
calculations, and general guidance.
2.0 Apparatus and Materials
2.1 HotBlock TM for Sample Extraction – Model Numbers SC150 or SC151
2.2 Soil Extraction Cell, Complete Unit – Catalog# K8000
2.3 Soil Extraction Temperature Reference Cell Complete – Catalog# K8000R
2.4 Drying Agent such as Diatomaceous Earth or Sodium Sulfate
2.5 Extraction Solvents
2.6 Buchner Funnel
2.7 Filter Paper (Glass Fiber)
2.8 Surrogates
2.9 Standards
2.10 Vials
3.0 HotBlock TM Procedure for Method 3546:
3.1 When practical, air dry the sample at room temperature for 48 hours
in a glass tray or on hexane-rinsed aluminum foil. Alternatively, mix
the sample with an equal volume of anhydrous sodium sulfate or
diatomaceous earth until a free-flowing powder is obtained. A percent
dry weight should be performed on a separate aliquot of sample for the
percent dry weight calculation at the end of the analysis.
3.2 Weigh 10 – 30g of sample into the Soil Extraction Cell. Amount may vary
depending on individual laboratory needs.
3.3 Add approximately 30 mLs of solvent. (This method was validated using
Methylene Chloride. Other solvents may be used but must be validated
by the individual laboratory).
3.4 Add the surrogates and/or spikes listed in the determinative method to
each appropriate sample.
3.5 Place the stainless steel inner lid with Viton® O-ring in the Soil Extraction
Cell.
3.6 Hand-tighten the threaded outer cap onto the Soil Extraction Cell.
3.7 Heat the HotBlock to 130º C. This will yield an internal solvent
temperature of 100 – 115º C which is recommended by Method 3546.
Adaptation of EPA SW846 Method 3546 for use with the Environmental Express HotBlock
TM