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METHOD 3620C 

 FLORISIL CLEANUP

SW-846 is not intended to be an analytical training manual. Therefore, method procedures 

are written based on the assumption that they will be performed by analysts who are formally 

trained in at least the basic principles of chemical analysis and in the use of the subject 

technology. 

In addition, SW-846 methods, with the exception of required method use for the analysis of 

method-defined parameters, are intended to be guidance methods which contain general 

information on how to perform an analytical procedure or technique which a laboratory can use as 

a basic starting point for generating its own detailed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), either 

for its own general use or for a specific project application. The performance data included in this 

method are for guidance purposes only, and are not intended to be and must not be used as 

absolute QC acceptance criteria for purposes of laboratory accreditation. 

1.0 SCOPE AND APPLICATION 

1.1 Florisil®, a registered trade name of U. S. Silica Co., is a magnesium silicate with 

basic properties. It is used to separate analytes from interfering compounds prior to sample 

analysis by a chromatographic method. 

1.2 Florisil® has been used for the cleanup of pesticide residues and other chlorinated 

hydrocarbons; the separation of nitrogen compounds from hydrocarbons; the separation of 

aromatic compounds from aliphatic-aromatic mixtures; and similar applications for use with fats, 

oils, and waxes. Additionally, Florisil® is considered good for separations with steroids, esters, 

ketones, glycerides, alkaloids, and some carbohydrates. 

1.3 Florisil® cleanup may be accomplished by either using a glass chromatographic 

column packed with Florisil® or using solid-phase extraction cartridges containing Florisil®. 

1.4 This method includes procedures for cleanup of sample extracts containing the 

following analyte groups: 

Phthalate esters Chlorinated hydrocarbons

Nitrosamines Organochlorine pesticides

Nitroaromatics Organophosphates

Haloethers Organophosphorus pesticides

Aniline and aniline derivatives PCBs

Other analytes may potentially be cleaned up using this method provided that adequate 

performance is demonstrated. 

1.5 Prior to employing this method, analysts are advised to consult the base method for 

each type of procedure that may be employed in the overall analysis (e.g., Methods 3500, 3600, 

5000, and 8000) for additional information on quality control procedures, development of QC 

acceptance criteria, calculations, and general guidance. Analysts also should consult the 

disclaimer statement at the front of the manual and the information in Chapter Two for guidance 

on the intended flexibility in the choice of methods, apparatus, materials, reagents, and supplies, 
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and on the responsibilities of the analyst for demonstrating that the techniques employed are 

appropriate for the analytes of interest, in the matrix of interest, and at the levels of concern. 

In addition, analysts and data users are advised that, except where explicitly specified in a 

regulation, the use of SW-846 methods is not mandatory in response to Federal testing 

requirements. The information contained in this method is provided by EPA as guidance to be 

used by the analyst and the regulated community in making judgments necessary to generate 

results that meet the data quality objectives for the intended application. 

1.6 This method is restricted to use by, or under the supervision of, appropriately 

experienced and trained analysts. Each analyst must demonstrate the ability to generate 

acceptable results with this method. 

2.0 SUMMARY OF METHOD 

2.1 This method describes procedures for Florisil® cleanup of solvent extracts of 

environmental samples. It provides the option of using either traditional column chromatography 

techniques or solid-phase extraction cartridges. Generally, the traditional column 

chromatography technique uses larger amounts of adsorbent and, therefore, has a greater 

cleanup capacity. 

2.2 In the column cleanup protocol, the column is packed with the appropriate amount of 

adsorbent, topped with a water adsorbent, and then loaded with the sample extract. Elution of 

the analytes is effected with a suitable solvent(s), leaving the interfering compounds on the 

column. The eluate may be further concentrated prior to gas chromatographic analysis. 

2.3 The cartridge cleanup protocol uses solid-phase extraction cartridges containing 40 

μm particles of Florisil® (60 Å pores). Each cartridge is washed with solvent immediately prior to 

use. The sample extract is loaded onto the cartridge which is then eluted with suitable 

solvent(s). A vacuum manifold is necessary to obtain reproducible results. The eluate may be 

further concentrated prior to gas chromatographic analysis. 

3.0 DEFINITIONS 

Refer to Chapter One and the manufacturer's instructions for definitions that may be 

relevant to this method. 

4.0 INTERFERENCES 

4.1 Solvents, reagents, glassware, and other sample processing hardware may yield 

artifacts and/or interferences to sample analysis. All of these materials must be demonstrated to 

be free from interferences under the conditions of the analysis by analyzing method blanks. 

Specific selection of reagents and purification of solvents by distillation in all glass systems may 

be necessary. Refer to each method to be used for specific guidance on quality control 

procedures and to Chapter Four for general guidance on the cleaning of glassware. 

4.2 A reagent blank should be prepared and analyzed for the compounds of interest 

prior to the use of this method. The level of interferences must meet the QC acceptance criteria 

for blanks that are specified in a project planning document, e.g. QAPP, SAP, or in a laboratory 

SOP. 
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4.3 The procedures for reagent purification outlined here should be considered to be the 

minimum needed for successful use of this method. More extensive procedures may be 

necessary to achieve acceptable levels of interferences for some analytes. However, during the 

evaluation of the cartridge cleanup procedure, phthalate esters were detected in the Florisil® 

cartridge method blanks at concentrations of up to 400 ng per cartridge. Therefore, complete 

removal of the phthalate esters from Florisil® cartridges may not be possible. Phthalate ester 

contamination may be a problem with certain cartridges. The more inert the column and/or 

cartridge material (i.e., glass or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)), the fewer problems with 

phthalates contamination will occur. Phthalates create interference problems for all method 

analytes, not just the phthalate esters themselves.

5.0 SAFETY 

This method does not address all safety issues associated with its use. The laboratory is 

responsible for maintaining a safe work environment and a current awareness file of OSHA 

regulations regarding the safe handling of the chemicals listed in this method. A reference file of 

material safety data sheets (MSDSs) should be available to all personnel involved in these 

analyses. 

6.0 EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES 

The mention of trade names or commercial products in this manual is for illustrative 

purposes only, and does not constitute an EPA endorsement or exclusive recommendation for 

use. The products and instrument settings cited in SW-846 methods represent those products 

and settings used during method development or subsequently evaluated by the Agency. 

Glassware, reagents, supplies, equipment, and settings other than those listed in this manual 

may be employed provided that method performance appropriate for the intended application has 

been demonstrated and documented. 

This section does not list common laboratory glassware (e.g., beakers and flasks). 

6.1 Chromatography column -- 300 mm x 10 mm ID, fitted with a polytetrafluoroethylene 

(PTFE) stopcock. 

NOTE: Columns equipped with fritted glass discs are difficult to clean once the column has been 

used to process highly contaminated extracts. Columns without frits may be 

purchased, and a small pad of glass wool may be used to retain the adsorbent. 

Prewash the glass wool pad with 50 mL of acetone followed by 50 mL of elution solvent 

prior to packing the column with adsorbent. 

6.2 Muffle furnace -- Capable of maintaining 400 °C. 

6.3 Vials -- Glass, 10-mL and 25-mL capacity, fitted with polytetrafluoroethylene 

(PTFE)-lined screw caps or crimp tops. 

6.4 Vacuum manifold -- VacElute Manifold SPS-24 (Analytichem International), Visiprep 

(Supelco, Inc.), or equivalent, consisting of glass vacuum basin, collection rack and funnel, 

collection vials, replaceable stainless steel delivery tips, built-in vacuum bleed valve and gauge. 

The system is connected to a vacuum pump or water aspirator through a vacuum trap made from 

a 500-mL sidearm flask fitted with a one-hole stopper and glass tubing. The manifold is 

necessary for use of the cartridge cleanup protocol. 
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6.5 Top loading balance -- Capable of weighing to 0.01 g. 

7.0 REAGENTS AND STANDARDS. 

7.1 Reagent grade chemicals must be used in all tests. Unless otherwise indicated, it is 

intended that all reagents conform to the specifications of the Committee on Analytical Reagents 

of the American Chemical Society, where such specifications are available. Other grades may 

be used, provided it is first ascertained that the reagent is of sufficiently high purity to permit its 

use without lessening the accuracy of the determination. Reagents should be stored in glass to 

prevent the leaching of contaminants from plastic containers. 

7.2 Organic free reagent water -- All references to water in this method refer to organic 

free reagent water, as defined in Chapter One. 

7.3 Granular Florisil® -- For column cleanup procedure. Florisil® is produced in four 

grades, two of which are appropriate for this procedure. The differences between grades are 

primarily a function of the activation temperature, resulting in somewhat different chemical 

characteristics among the grades. Florisil® Grade PR is activated at 675 °C and is most useful 

for pesticide residue analyses. Florisil® Grade A is activated at 650 °C and is generally used for 

other analytes. Whichever grade is used, store Florisil® in glass containers fitted with 

ground-glass stoppers or foil-liner screw caps. 

7.4 Lauric acid -- Reagent grade. Used for the standardization of the Florisil® activity. 

Weigh 10.00 g of lauric acid in a 500-mL volumetric flask. Add 50 mL of hexane to the flask to 

dissolve the lauric acid. Swirl the flask gently until the lauric acid is dissolved, then dilute the 

solution in the flask to 500 mL with additional hexane. 

7.5 Phenolphthalein indicator -- Dissolve 1 g of phenolphthalein in ethanol and dilute to 

100 mL in a volumetric flask. 

7.6 Sodium hydroxide, NaOH -- Weigh out 20 g of NaOH (pellets, reagent grade) in a 

500-mL volumetric flask. Dissolve in organic-free reagent water and dilute to 500 mL to make a 

1 N solution. Dilute 25 mL of the 1 N NaOH to 500 mL with water in a second 500-mL volumetric 

flask, yielding a 0.05N solution. The NaOH solution should be standardized against lauric acid, 

as follows. 

7.6.1 Weigh 100 to 200 mg of lauric acid to the nearest 1 mg in a 125-mL 

Erlenmeyer flask. Add 50 mL of ethanol to the flask and swirl to dissolve the lauric acid. 

7.6.2 Add 3 drops of phenolphthalein indicator to the flask, and titrate with the 

0.05 N NaOH solution to a permanent endpoint (i.e., the indicator color does not disappear 

when the solution is allowed to stand for 1 min). 

7.6.3 Calculate the "strength" of the NaOH solution as the mg of lauric acid 

neutralized per mL of NaOH solution. 

7.7 Deactivation/activation of Florisil® 

7.7.1 Deactivation of Florisil® -- for cleanup of phthalate esters. To prepare for 

use, place 100 ± 10 g of Florisil® into a 500-mL beaker and heat to 140 °C for approximately 

16 hrs. After heating, transfer to a 500-mL reagent bottle. Tightly seal and cool to room 

temperature. When cool, add 3 ± 0.1 mL of organic free reagent water. Mix thoroughly by 

shaking or rolling for 10 min and let stand for at least 2 hrs. Keep the bottle sealed tightly. 
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7.7.2 Activation of Florisil® -- for all cleanups other than phthalate esters. It is 

advisable to treat both Florisil® Grade A and Grade PR prior to use to drive off any moisture 

adsorbed during storage and handling. Heat the Florisil® in a glass container loosely 

covered with aluminum foil in an oven at 130 °C overnight. Cool the Florisil® in a 

dessicator before use. 

7.7.3 Florisil® from different batches or sources may vary in adsorptive capacity. 

To standardize the amount of Florisil® which is used, use the lauric acid value, described 

below. The procedure determines the adsorption from a hexane solution of lauric acid (mg) 

per g of Florisil®. 

7.7.3.1 Weigh 2.000 g of Florisil® in a 25-mL, glass stoppered, 

Erlenmeyer flask. Cover loosely with aluminum foil and heat overnight at 130 °C. 

Stopper the flask and cool to room temperature. 

7.7.3.2 Add 20.0 mL of the lauric acid solution to the flask, stopper, and 

shake occasionally for 15 min. 

7.7.3.3 Let the Florisil® settle and using a volumetric pipet, transfer 

10.0 mL of supernatant liquid into a 125-mL Erlenmeyer flask. Avoid including any 

Florisil®. 

7.7.3.4 Add 60 mL of ethanol and 3 drops of the phenolphthalein 

indicator solution to the flask. 

7.7.3.5 Titrate the solution in the flask with the 0.05N NaOH solution 

until a permanent end point is reached (i.e., the indicator color does not disappear 

when the solution is allowed to stand for 1 min). 

7.7.3.6 The lauric acid value is calculated as follows: 

Lauric	acid	value		200	-	(titration	volume	in	mL	of	NaOH	(strength	of	NaOH

Where the strength of the NaOH is measured in Sec. 7.6.3 as the mg of lauric acid 

neutralized per mL of NaOH solution. 

7.7.3.7 Use the following equation to obtain an equivalent quantity of 

any batch of Florisil®. 

110

lauric	acid	value × 20	g		Required	weight	of	Florisil

NOTE: This equation was written incorrectly in the previous version of this method. 

7.8 Sodium sulfate (granular, anhydrous), Na2SO4 -- Purify by heating at 400 °C for 4 hrs 

in a shallow tray, or by precleaning the sodium sulfate with methylene chloride. A method blank 

should be analyzed in order to demonstrate that there is no interference from the sodium sulfate. 

7.9 Florisil® cartridges -- 40 μm particles, 60 Å pores. The cartridges from which this 

method were developed consist of 6-mL serological grade polypropylene tubes, with the 1 g of 

Florisil® held between two polyethylene or stainless steel frits with 20 μm pores. Cartridges 
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containing 0.5 g and 2.0 g of Florisil® are available, however, the compound elution patterns 

should be verified when cartridges containing other than 1 g of Florisil® are used. 

7.10 Elution solvents 

The choice of solvent will depend on the analytes of interest and no single solvent is 

universally applicable to all analyte groups. Whatever solvent system is employed including

those specifically listed in this method, the analyst must demonstrate adequate performance for 

the analytes of interest, at the levels of interest. At a minimum, such a demonstration will 

encompass the initial demonstration of proficiency described in Method 3500, using a clean 

reference matrix. Method 8000 describes procedures that may be used to develop performance 

criteria for such demonstrations as well as for matrix spike and laboratory control sample results. 

All solvents should be pesticide quality or equivalent. Solvents may be degassed prior to 

use. 

7.10.1 Diethyl ether, C2H5OC2H5 -- Must be free of peroxides as indicated by test 

strips (EM Quant, or equivalent). Procedures for removal of peroxides are provided with 

the test strips. After cleanup, 20 mL of ethyl alcohol preservative must be added to each 

liter of ether. 

7.10.2 Pentane, CH3(CH2)3CH3

7.10.3 Hexane, C6H14

7.10.4 Methylene chloride, CH2Cl2

7.10.5 Acetone, CH3COCH3

7.10.6 Petroleum ether (boiling range of 30 - 60 °C) 

7.10.7 Toluene, C6H5CH3

7.10.8 2-Propanol, (CH3)2CHOH 

7.11 Florisil® cartridge phenol check solution (for the organochlorine pesticide technique) 

-- Prepare a solution of 2,4,5-trichlorophenol in acetone at a concentration of 0.1 mg/L. See the 

note in Sec. 7.12. 

7.12 Florisil® cartridge pesticide check solution -- Prepare a solution containing the 

following analytes in hexane: 

α-BHC 5 μg/L 4,4'-DDD 10 μg/L

Heptachlor 5 μg/L 4,4'-DDT 10 μg/L

γ-BHC 5 μg/L Methoxychlor 50 μg/L

Endosulfan I 5 μg/L Tetrachloro-m-xylene 20 μg/L

Dieldrin 10 μg/L Decachlorobiphenyl 20 μg/L

Endrin 10 μg/L

NOTE: The concentrations of these analytes were incorrectly listed in units of mg/L in the 

previous version of this method. 
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7.13 Chlorophenoxy acid herbicide check solution -- Prepare a solution containing 

2,4,5-T methyl ester at 100 μg/L, pentachlorophenyl methyl ester at 50 μg/L, and picloram methyl 

ester at 200 μg/L. See the note in Sec. 7.12. 

8.0 SAMPLE COLLECTION, PRESERVATION, AND STORAGE 

See the introductory material to Chapter Four, "Organic Analytes" and the specific 

determinative methods to be employed 

9.0 QUALITY CONTROL 

9.1 Refer to Chapter One for additional guidance on quality assurance (QA) and quality 

control (QC) protocols. When inconsistencies exist between QC guidelines, method-specific QC 

criteria take precedence over both technique-specific criteria and those criteria given in Chapter 

One, and technique-specific QC criteria take precedence over the criteria in Chapter One. Any 

effort involving the collection of analytical data should include development of a structured and 

systematic planning document, such as a Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) or a Sampling 

and Analysis Plan (SAP), which translates project objectives and specifications into directions for 

those that will implement the project and assess the results. Each laboratory should maintain a 

formal quality assurance program. The laboratory should also maintain records to document the 

quality of the data generated. All data sheets and quality control data should be maintained for 

reference or inspection. 

9.2 Also refer to Method 3600 for cleanup QC procedures, and Method 8000 and the 

specific determinative method to be used for information on determinative QC procedures. 

9.3 Initially, before processing any samples, the analyst should demonstrate that all 

parts of the equipment in contact with the sample and reagents are interference-free. This is 

accomplished through the analysis of a method blank. As a continuing check, each time 

samples are extracted, cleaned up, and analyzed, and when there is a change in reagents, a 

method blank should be prepared and analyzed for the compounds of interest as a safeguard 

against chronic laboratory contamination. 

9.4 The analyst must demonstrate that the compounds of interest are being 

quantitatively recovered by the cleanup technique before applying this method to actual samples. 

This test applies to both the column cleanup and cartridge cleanup procedures. A recovery 

check needs to be performed using standards of the target analytes at known concentration. 

9.4.1 This test needs to be conducted on each batch of Florisil® following its 

activation (Sec. 7.3). 

9.4.2 The efficiency of each lot of the solid-phase extraction cartridges needs to 

be verified. Only lots of cartridges from which the spiked analytes are quantitatively 

recovered may be used to process the samples. A check should also be performed at least 

once on each individual lot of cartridges and at least once for every 300 cartridges of a 

particular lot, whichever frequency is greater. 

9.4.3 Organochlorine pesticides --To check each new lot of Florisil® cartridges 

before use, perform the following in duplicate: 

9.4.3.1 Combine 0.5 mL of the 2,4,5-trichlorophenol solution in Sec. 

7.11, 1.0 mL of the pesticide solution in Sec. 7.12, and 0.5 mL of hexane in a vial. 
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9.4.3.2 Condition the cartridge as described in Sec. 11.1 and then 

perform the cartridge cleanup starting with Sec. 11.7. 

9.4.3.3 Elute the cartridge with 9 mL of acetone/hexane (10/90, v/v) 

only. Reduce the volume to 1.0 mL and analyze by Method 8081. 

9.4.3.4 The lot of Florisil® cartridges is acceptable if all pesticides are 

recovered at 80 to 110%, if the recovery of trichlorophenol is less than 5%, and if no 

peaks interfering with the target analytes are detected. 

9.4.4 Chlorophenoxy acid herbicides -- To check each new lot of granular 

Florisil® perform the following: 

9.4.4.1 Add 5 mL of the chlorophenoxy acid herbicide check solution 

(Sec. 7.13) to a Florisil® column packed and washed as in Sec. 11.13.2. 

9.4.4.2 Elute Fractions 1 and 2 as described in Secs. 11.13.3 and 

11.13.4, collecting each in a separate flask. 

9.4.4.3 Elute the column with approximately 100 mL of diethyl ether 

and collect ten separate 10-mL fractions. 

9.4.4.4 Concentrate Fraction 1 and Fraction 2 separately and 

concentrate each of the ten 10-mL diethyl ether fractions to 5 mL 

9.4.4.5 Analyze each of the 12 eluates by GC/ECD and calculate the 

recovery of each analyte. Pentachlorophenyl methyl ether should be found in 

Fraction 1. 2,4,5-T methyl ester (and the methyl esters of the other chlorophenoxy 

acids) should be found in Fraction 2. Determine the volume of diethyl ether that is 

necessary to elute picloram methyl ester. 

9.4.4.6 The lot of Florisil® is acceptable if the target analytes are 

quantitatively recovered and if the recovery of trichlorophenol is less than 5%. No 

interferences should be detected in any of these eluates. 

9.5 Any method blanks, matrix spike samples, or replicate samples should be subjected 

to the same analytical procedures (Sec. 11.0) as those used on actual samples. For sample 

extracts that are cleaned up using this method, the associated quality control samples should also 

be processed through this cleanup method. 

10.0 CALIBRATION AND STANDARDIZATION 

There are no calibration or standardization steps directly associated with this cleanup 

procedure. 
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11.0 PROCEDURE 

Sec. 11.1 describes the procedures for assembling and conditioning the Florisil® cartridges. 

Sec. 11.2 describes general procedures for handling sample extracts prior to cleanup. Secs. 

11.3 through 11.13 describe the column and cartridge procedures for phthalate esters (Secs. 11.3 

and 11.4); nitrosamines (Sec. 11.5); organochlorine pesticides, haloethers, and 

organophosphorus pesticides (Secs. 11.6 and 11.7); nitroaromatics and isophorone (Sec. 11.8); 

chlorinated hydrocarbons (Secs. 11.9 and 11.10); aniline and aniline derivatives (Sec. 11.11); 

organophosphates (Sec. 11.12); and derivatized chlorophenoxy acid herbicides (Sec. 11.13). 

The column chromatography procedures employ a larger amount of Florisil® than the 

cartridge procedures and, therefore, have a greater cleanup capacity. Samples that exhibit 

greater degrees of interferences should be cleaned up using the column procedures. However, 

both techniques have limitations on the amount of interferences which can be removed. 

If the interference is caused by high boiling materials, then Method 3640 should be 

employed prior to Florisil® cleanup. If the interference is caused by relatively polar compounds 

in the same boiling range as the analytes of interest, then multiple column or cartridge cleanups 

may be necessary. For additional cleanup of organochlorine pesticides and PCBs, see Method 

3665. If crystals of sulfur are present in the extract, then Method 3660 should be employed prior 

to Florisil® cleanup. 

Whenever Florisil® is used to fractionate groups of target compounds (rather than to simply 

remove potential interferants) it is critical that the specific fractionation scheme be validated using 

spiked solutions or spiked sample extracts that contain most or all of the analytes of interest. 

This may be particularly important when the Florisil® cartridge techniques are employed, because 

the differences between the various cartridge formats and manufacturers may affect the 

fractionation patterns. In addition, it may be useful to archive any fractions not originally intended 

for analysis, in the event that the fractionation scheme chosen does not yield the intended results. 

Once the determinative analysis has been performed and demonstrates that the fractionation has 

been successful, such archived fractions may be disposed of in an appropriate manner. 

However, if the fractionation did not perform as intended, the analytes of interest may be 

contained in the archived fractions which may be analyzed or combined with the other fraction(s) 

for reanalysis. 

Following Florisil® cleanup, extracts may need further concentration and/or solvent 

exchange. Consult the appropriate determinative method and 3500 series extraction method for 

details. 

11.1 Cartridge set-up and conditioning 

11.1.1 Arrange the cartridges on the manifold in the closed-valve position. 

11.1.2 Turn on the vacuum pump and set the vacuum to 10 in (254 mm) of Hg. 

Do not exceed the manufacturer's recommendation for manifold vacuum. Flow rates may 

be controlled by opening and closing cartridge valves. 

11.1.3 Condition the cartridges by adding 4 mL of hexane to each cartridge. 

Slowly open the cartridge valves to allow hexane to pass through the sorbent beds to the 

lower frits. Allow a few drops per cartridge to pass through the manifold to remove all air 

bubbles. Close the valves and allow the solvent to soak the entire sorbent bed for 5 

minutes. Do not turn off the vacuum. 
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11.1.4 Slowly open cartridge valves to allow the hexane to pass through the 

cartridges. Close the cartridge valves when there is still at least 1 mm of solvent above the 

sorbent bed. Do not allow the cartridges to become dry. If cartridges go dry, repeat the 

conditioning step. 

11.2 Handling sample extracts 

Most sample extracts have to be concentrated to a smaller volume prior to the use of 

Florisil® cleanup. The extract volume is a function of the analytical sensitivity necessary to meet 

the project objectives. The extract volume will also affect the ability of the Florisil® to separate 

target analytes from potential interferences, particularly for the cartridge procedures, where 

applying large extract volumes to the cartridges may cause poor results. As noted in Sec. 11.0, 

consult the appropriate extraction and determinative methods for the details on final extract 

volumes, extract concentration techniques, and solvent exchange procedures. 

11.2.1 Reduce the sample extract volume to 2 mL prior to cleanup for: 

Phthalate esters Chlorinated hydrocarbons

Nitrosamines Chlorophenoxy acid herbicides

Nitroaromatics and isophorone Aniline and aniline derivatives

The extract solvent should be hexane for the phthalate esters, nitroaromatics, 

chlorinated hydrocarbons, and chlorophenoxy acid herbicides, and methylene chloride for 

the nitrosamines and aniline and aniline derivatives. 

11.2.2 Reduce the sample extract volume to 10 mL prior to cleanup for: 

Organochlorine pesticides Organophosphates

Haloethers PCBs

Organophosphorus pesticides

The extract solvent should be hexane for these analytes. In most cases, given the 

sensitivity of the determinative methods, only 1 mL of the 10 mL extract needs to be 

subjected to the Florisil® cleanup procedure. The remaining 9 mL should be archived for 

later use, if needed. 

11.2.3 If the extract was in cold storage, allow it to reach room temperature. 

Inspect the extract visually to ensure that there are no particulates or phase separations and 

that no evaporative loss has taken place. If crystals of sulfur are visible or if the presence of 

sulfur is suspected, proceed with Method 3660. 

11.3 Column procedure for phthalate esters 

11.3.1 Place approximately 10 g of deactivated Florisil® (Sec. 7.7.1) into a 10 mm 

ID chromatographic column. Tap the column to settle the Florisil® and add approximately 

1 cm of anhydrous sodium sulfate to the top. 

11.3.2 Pre-elute the column with 40 mL of hexane. The rate for all elutions 

should be about 2 mL/min. Discard the eluate and, just prior to exposure of the sodium 

sulfate layer to the air; quantitatively transfer the 2-mL sample extract onto the column using 

an additional 2 mL of hexane to complete the transfer. 
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11.3.3 Just prior to exposure of the sodium sulfate layer to the air, add 40 mL of 

hexane and continue the elution of the column. Discard this hexane eluate. 

11.3.4 Elute the column with 100 mL of ethyl ether/hexane (20/80, v/v) and collect 

this fraction in a flask (e.g., a 500-mL K-D flask equipped with a clean 10 mL concentrator 

tube). Concentrate the eluate to the volume listed in the determinative method, using the 

techniques described in the appropriate 3500 series method. No solvent exchange is 

necessary. Compounds that elute in this fraction are: 

Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate Diethyl phthalate

Butyl benzyl phthalate Dimethyl phthalate

Di-n-butyl phthalate Di-n-octyl phthalate

11.4 Cartridge procedure for phthalate esters 

11.4.1 Using 1-g Florisil® cartridges, condition the cartridges with hexane as 

described in Sec. 11.1. 

11.4.2 Transfer the extract (Sec. 11.2) to the cartridge. Open the cartridge valve 

to allow the extract to pass through the cartridge bed at approximately 2 mL/min. 

11.4.3 When the entire extract has passed through the cartridges, but before the 

cartridges become dry, rinse the sample vials with an additional 0.5 mL of solvent, and add 

the rinse to the cartridges to complete the quantitative transfer. 

11.4.4 Close the cartridge valve and turn off the vacuum after the solvent has 

passed through, ensuring that the cartridge never gets dry. 

11.4.5 Place a 5-mL vial or volumetric flask into the sample rack corresponding to 

the cartridge position. Attach a solvent rinsed stainless steel solvent guide to the manifold 

cover and align it with the collection vial. 

11.4.6 If the sample is suspected to contain organochlorine pesticides, elute the 

cartridge with methylene chloride/hexane (20/80, v/v). Turn on the vacuum pump and 

adjust the pump pressure to 10 in (254 mm) of Hg. Allow the solvent to soak the sorbent 

bed for 1 min or less. Slowly open the cartridge valve, and collect the eluate (this fraction 

contains the organochlorine pesticides, and should be discarded). 

11.4.7 Close the cartridge valve, replace collection vials, and add 10 mL of 

acetone/hexane (10/90, v/v) to the cartridge. Slowly open the cartridge valve and collect 

the eluate into the collection vial. This fraction contains the phthalate esters, and should be 

retained for analysis. 

11.4.8 Concentrate the eluate to the volume listed in the determinative method, 

using the techniques described in the appropriate 3500 series method. 

11.5 Column procedure for nitrosamines 

11.5.1 Add a weight of activated Florisil® (nominally 22 g) predetermined by 

calibration (Sec. 7.7.3.7) into a 20 mm ID chromatographic column. Tap the column to 

settle the Florisil® and add about 5 mm of anhydrous sodium sulfate to the top. 

11.5.2 Pre-elute the column with 40 mL of ethyl ether/pentane (15/85, v/v). 

Discard the eluate and, just prior to exposure of the sodium sulfate layer to the air, 
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 July 2014 

quantitatively transfer the 2-mL sample extract (Sec. 11.2) onto the column using an 

additional 2 mL of pentane to complete the transfer. 

11.5.3 Just prior to the exposure of the sodium sulfate layer to the air, elute the 

column with 90 mL of ethyl ether/pentane (15/85, v/v). Discard the eluate. This fraction 

will contain any diphenylamine present in the extract. 

11.5.4 Elute the column with 100 mL of acetone/ethyl ether (5/95, v/v), collecting 

the eluate in a flask (e.g., a 500 mL K-D flask equipped with a clean 10 mL concentrator 

tube). This fraction will contain all of the nitrosamines listed in the scope of the method. 

11.5.5 Add 15 mL of methanol to the collected fraction, and concentrate this 

fraction to the volume listed in the determinative method, using the techniques described in 

the appropriate 3500 series method. 

11.6 Column procedure for organochlorine pesticides, haloethers, and 

organophosphorus pesticides (see Table 6 for fractionation patterns of organophosphorus 

pesticides). 

11.6.1 Add a weight of activated Florisil® (nominally 20 g), predetermined by 

calibration (Sec. 7.7.3.7), to a 20 mm ID chromatographic column. Settle the Florisil® by 

tapping the column. Add anhydrous sodium sulfate to the top of the Florisil® to form a layer 

1 to 2 cm deep. 

11.6.2 Pre-elute the column with 60 mL of hexane and discard the eluate. Just 

prior to exposure of the sodium sulfate to air, quantitatively transfer the 10-mL sample 

extract (Sec. 11.2) onto the column, completing the transfer with two 1- to 2-mL rinses with 

hexane. 

11.6.3 Place a flask (e.g., a 500-mL K-D flask equipped with a clean concentrator 

tube) under the chromatographic column. Drain the column into the flask until the sodium 

sulfate layer is nearly exposed. Elute the column with 200 mL of ethyl ether/hexane (6/94, 

v/v) using a drip rate of about 5 mL/min. This is Fraction 1, and all of the haloethers are in 

this fraction. Remove the flask and set aside for later concentration. 

11.6.4 Elute the column again, using 200 mL of ethyl ether/hexane (15/85, v/v), 

into a second flask. This is Fraction 2. 

11.6.5 Perform a third elution using 200 mL of diethyl ether/hexane (50/50, v/v), 

collecting the eluate in a third flask. This is Fraction 3. 

11.6.6 Perform a final elution with 200 mL of 100% ethyl ether, collecting the 

eluate in a fourth flask. This is Fraction 4. 

11.6.7 Concentrate the four eluates to the volume listed in the determinative 

method, using the techniques described in the appropriate 3500 series method. 

11.7 Cartridge procedure for organochlorine pesticides and PCBs 

11.7.1 Using 1-g Florisil® cartridges, condition the cartridges with hexane, as 

described in Sec. 11.1. 
SW-846 Update V 3620C - 13 Revision 4 

 July 2014 

11.7.2 Transfer the 1 mL (or other appropriate volume) of the extract (Sec. 11.2) to 

the cartridge. Open the cartridge valve to allow the extract to pass through the cartridge 

bed at approximately 2 mL/min. 

11.7.3 When the entire extract has passed through the cartridge, but before the 

cartridge becomes dry, rinse the sample vial with an additional 0.5 mL of hexane, and add 

the rinse to the cartridge to complete the quantitative transfer. 

11.7.4 Close the cartridge valve and turn off the vacuum after the solvent has 

passed through, ensuring that the cartridge never goes dry. 

11.7.5 Place a 10-mL vial or volumetric flask into the sample rack corresponding 

to the cartridge position. Attach a solvent rinsed stainless steel solvent guide to the 

manifold cover and align with the collection vial. 

11.7.6 If there is no need to separate the organochlorine pesticides from the 

PCBs, then add 9 mL of acetone/hexane (10/90, v/v) to the cartridge. Turn on the vacuum 

pump and adjust the pump pressure to 10 in (254 mm) of Hg. Allow the solvent to soak the 

sorbent bed for 1 min or less. Slowly open the cartridge valve and collect the eluate into the 

collection vial. Go directly to Sec. 11.7.8. 

11.7.7 The following procedures are used to separate the organochlorine 

pesticides from the PCBs. 

11.7.7.1 Add 3 mL of hexane to the cartridge. Turn on the vacuum 

pump and adjust the pump pressure to 10 inches (254 mm) of Hg. Allow the solvent 

to soak the sorbent bed for 1 min or less. Slowly open the cartridge valve and 

collect the eluate into the collection vial. This is Fraction 1 and it will contain the 

PCBs and a few of the organochlorine pesticides (see Table 5). 

11.7.7.2 Close the cartridge valve, replace the collection vial, and add 5 

mL of methylene chloride/hexane (26/74, v/v) to the cartridge. Slowly open the 

cartridge valve and collect the eluate into the collection vial. This is Fraction 2 and it 

will contain most of the pesticides.

11.7.7.3 Close the cartridge valve, replace collection vials, and add 5 mL 

of acetone/hexane (10/90, v/v) to the cartridge. Slowly open the cartridge valve and 

collect the eluate into the collection vial. This is Fraction 3 and it will contain the 

remaining pesticides. 

11.7.8 As needed, perform a solvent exchange and adjust the final volume of the 

eluant to the volume listed in the determinative method, using the techniques described in 

the appropriate 3500 series method. 

11.8 Column procedure for nitroaromatics and isophorone 

11.8.1 Add a weight of activated Florisil® (nominally 10 g) predetermined by 

calibration (Sec. 7.7.3.7) into a 10 mm ID chromatographic column. Tap the column to 

settle the Florisil® and add about 1 cm of anhydrous sodium sulfate to the top. 

11.8.2 Pre-elute the column with methylene chloride/hexane (10/90, v/v) at about 

2 mL/min. Discard the eluate and, just prior to exposure of the sodium sulfate layer to the 

air, quantitatively transfer the 2-mL sample extract (Sec. 11.2) onto the column using an 

additional 2 mL of hexane to complete the transfer. 
SW-846 Update V 3620C - 14 Revision 4 

 July 2014 

11.8.3 Just prior to exposure of the sodium sulfate layer to the air, add 30 mL of 

methylene chloride/hexane (10/90, v/v) and continue the elution of the column. Discard the 

eluate. 

11.8.4 Elute the column with 90 mL of ethyl ether/pentane (15/85, v/v) and discard 

the eluate. This fraction will contain any diphenylamine present in the extract. 

11.8.5 Elute the column with 100 mL of acetone/ethyl ether (5/95, v/v), and collect 

the eluate in a flask (e.g., a 500-mL K-D flask equipped with a 10-mL concentrator tube). 

This fraction will contain all of the nitrosamines listed in the scope of the method. 

11.8.6 Add 15 mL of methanol to the collected fraction, and concentrate to the 

volume listed in the determinative method, using the techniques described in the 

appropriate 3500 series method. 

11.8.7 Elute the column with 30 mL of acetone/methylene chloride (10/90, v/v), 

and collect the eluate in a flask (e.g., a 500-mL K-D flask equipped with a 10-mL 

concentrator tube). Concentrate the collected fraction to the volume listed in the 

determinative method, using the techniques described in the appropriate 3500 series 

method, and exchanging the solvent to hexane. Compounds that elute in this fraction are: 

2,4-Dinitrotoluene Isophorone

2,6-Dinitrotoluene Nitrobenzene

11.9 Column procedure for chlorinated hydrocarbons 

11.9.1 Add a weight of activated Florisil® (nominally 12 g) predetermined by 

calibration (Sec. 7.7.3.7) into a 10 mm ID chromatographic column. Tap the column to 

settle the Florisil® and add about 1 to 2 cm of anhydrous sodium sulfate to the top. 

11.9.2 Pre-elute the column with 100 mL of petroleum ether. Discard the eluate 

and, just prior to exposure of the sodium sulfate layer to the air, quantitatively transfer the 

sample extract (Sec. 11.2) to the column by decantation and subsequent petroleum ether 

washings. Discard the eluate. 

11.9.3 Just prior to exposure of the sodium sulfate layer to the air, begin eluting 

the column with 200 mL of petroleum ether and collect the eluate in flask (e.g., a 500-mL 

K-D flask equipped with a 10-mL concentrator tube). This fraction should contain the 

following chlorinated hydrocarbons: 

2-Chloronaphthalene Hexachlorobenzene

1,2-Dichlorobenzene Hexachlorobutadiene

1,3-Dichlorobenzene Hexachlorocyclopentadiene

1,4-Dichlorobenzene Hexachloroethane

1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene

11.9.4 Concentrate the collected fraction to the volume listed in the determinative 

method, using the techniques described in the appropriate 3500 series method. 
SW-846 Update V 3620C - 15 Revision 4 

 July 2014 

11.10 Cartridge procedure for chlorinated hydrocarbons 

11.10.1 Using 1-g Florisil® cartridges, condition the cartridges with 5 mL of 

acetone/hexane (10/90, v/v) as described in Sec. 11.1. 

11.10.2 Transfer the extract (Sec. 11.2) to the cartridge. Open the cartridge valve 

to allow the extract to pass through the cartridge bed at approximately 2 mL/min. 

11.10.3 When the entire extract has passed through the cartridge, but before the 

cartridge becomes dry, rinse the sample vial with an additional 0.5 mL of acetone/hexane 

(10/90), and add the rinse to the cartridge to complete the quantitative transfer. 

11.10.4 Close the cartridge valve and turn off the vacuum after the solvent has 

passed through, ensuring that the cartridge never gets dry. 

11.10.5 Place a 5-mL vial or volumetric flask into the sample rack corresponding to 

the cartridge position. Attach a solvent rinsed stainless steel solvent guide to the manifold 

cover and align it with the collection vial. 

11.10.6 Add 10 mL of acetone/hexane (10/90, v/v) to the cartridge. Turn on the 

vacuum pump and adjust the pump pressure to 10 in (254 mm) of Hg. Allow the solvent to 

soak the sorbent bed for 1 min or less. Slowly open the cartridge valve and collect the 

eluate into the collection vial. 

11.10.7 Adjust the final volume of the eluant to the volume listed in the 

determinative method, using the techniques described in the appropriate 3500 series 

method. 

11.11 Column procedure for aniline and aniline derivatives (see Table 8 for elution 

patterns) 

11.11.1 Add a weight of activated Florisil® predetermined by calibration (Sec. 

7.7.3.7) into a 20 mm ID chromatographic column. Tap the column to settle the Florisil®. 

11.11.2 Pre-elute the column with 100 mL of 2-propanol/methylene chloride (5/95, 

v/v), followed by 100 mL of hexane/methylene chloride (50/50, v/v), followed by 100 mL of 

hexane. Discard the eluate and leave a column of about 5 cm of hexane above the 

Florisil®. 

11.11.3 Quantitatively transfer the 2-mL sample extract (Sec. 11.2) onto 2.0 g of 

activated Florisil® in a 50-mL beaker, using a small volume of methylene chloride, and dry 

under a gentle stream of nitrogen. 

11.11.4 Place the dried Florisil® containing the sample extract onto the 

chromatographic column, and wash the beaker which contained the Florisil® with 75 mL of 

hexane, adding this wash to the reservoir. 

11.11.5 Elute the hexane from the column and discard. Stop the column flow just 

prior to the exposure of the Florisil® to air. 

11.11.6 Elute the column with 50 mL of methylene chloride/hexane (50/50, v/v), 

using a drip rate of about 5 mL/min, and collect the eluate in a flask (e.g., a 500-mL K-D flask 

equipped with a 10-mL concentrator tube). This is Fraction 1. 
SW-846 Update V 3620C - 16 Revision 4 

 July 2014 

11.11.7 Elute the column with 50 mL of 2-propanol/hexane (5/95, v/v), and collect 

the eluate in a second flask. This is Fraction 2. 

11.11.8 Elute the column a third time using 50 mL of methanol/hexane (5/95, v/v). 

Collect the eluate in a third flask. This is Fraction 3. Frequently, it will prove useful to 

combine the three fractions prior to analysis. However, in some situations, analysis of each 

separate fraction may be necessary. Refer to Method 8131. 

11.11.9 Concentrate the collected fractions to the volume listed in the determinative 

method, using the techniques described in the appropriate 3500 series method. 

11.12 Column procedure for organophosphates 

11.12.1 Add a weight of activated Florisil®, predetermined by calibration (Sec. 

7.7.3.7), to a 20 mm ID chromatographic column. Settle the Florisil® by tapping the 

column. Add anhydrous sodium sulfate to the top of the Florisil® to form a layer 1 to 2 cm 

deep. 

11.12.2 Pre-elute the column with 50-60 mL of hexane. Discard the eluate and 

just prior to exposure of the sulfate layer to air, quantitatively transfer the 10-mL sample 

extract (Sec. 11.2) onto the column using a hexane wash to complete the transfer. 

11.12.3 Just as the sample reaches the sodium sulfate, elute the column with 100 

mL of diethyl ether/hexane (10/90, v/v). Discard the eluate. 

11.12.4 Just prior to exposure of the sodium sulfate to air, elute the column with 200 

mL of diethyl ether/hexane (30/70, v/v). This fraction contains all of the target analytes 

except for tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate. 

11.12.5 Elute the column with 200 mL of diethyl ether/hexane (40/60, v/v). This 

fraction contains tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate. 

11.12.6 Concentrate the collected fraction to the volume listed in the determinative 

method, using the techniques described in the appropriate 3500 series method. 

11.13 Column procedure for derivatized chlorophenoxy acid herbicides 

11.13.1 Add a weight of activated Florisil® (nominally 4 g) predetermined by 

calibration (Sec. 7.7.3.7) into a 20 mm ID chromatographic column. Tap the column to 

settle the Florisil® and add approximately 5 mm of anhydrous sodium sulfate to the top. 

11.13.2 Pre-elute the column with 15 mL of hexane. The rate for all elutions 

should be about 2 mL/min. Discard the eluate, and just prior to exposure of the sodium 

sulfate to air, quantitatively transfer the 2-mL sample extract (Sec. 11.2) onto the column, 

using an additional 2 mL of hexane to complete the transfer. 

11.13.3 Just prior to the exposure of the sodium sulfate layer to the air, elute the 

column with 35 mL of methylene chloride/hexane (20/80, v/v), collecting the eluate in a 

clean flask (e.g., a 500-mL K-D flask equipped with a concentrator tube). This is Fraction 1, 

and will contain any pentachlorophenyl methyl ester that is present. 

11.13.4 Elute the column with 60 mL of methylene chloride/acetonitrile/hexane 

(50/0.35/49.65, v/v/v), collecting the eluate in a second flask. This is Fraction 2. 
SW-846 Update V 3620C - 17 Revision 4 

 July 2014 

11.13.5 If picloram is to be determined, perform a third elution with the volume of 

diethyl ether determined from the Florisil® check in Sec. 9.4.4, collecting this eluate in a 

third flask. This is Fraction 3, and will contain the picloram. 

11.13.6 The three fractions may be combined for analysis. Concentrate the 

combined fractions to the volume listed in the determinative method, using the techniques 

described in the appropriate 3500 series method. 

12.0 DATA ANALYSIS AND CALCULATIONS 

There are no calculations explicitly associated with this cleanup procedure. See the 

appropriate determinative method for the calculation of final sample results. 

13.0 METHOD PERFORMANCE 

13.1 Performance data and related information are provided in SW-846 methods only as 

examples and guidance. The data do not represent required performance criteria for users of 

the methods. Instead, performance criteria should be developed on a project-specific basis, 

and the laboratory should establish in-house QC performance criteria for the application of this 

method. These performance data are not intended to be and must not be used as absolute QC 

acceptance criteria for purposes of laboratory accreditation.

13.2 Table 1 provides example recoveries of phthalate esters obtained from the Florisil® 

column procedure. These data are provided for guidance purposes only. 

13.3 Table 2 provides example recoveries of phthalate esters obtained from the Florisil® 

cartridge procedure. These data are provided for guidance purposes only. 

13.4 Table 3 provides an example distribution of organochlorine pesticides and PCBs 

from the Florisil® column procedure. These data are provided for guidance purposes only. 

13.5 Table 4 provides example recoveries of Aroclors from the Florisil® cartridge 

procedure. These data are provided for guidance purposes only. 

13.6 Table 5 provides an example distribution of organochlorine pesticides from the 

Florisil® cartridge procedure, using 1-g cartridges. These data are provided for guidance 

purposes only. 

13.7 Table 6 provides an example distribution of organophosphorus pesticides from the 

Florisil® column procedure. These data are provided for guidance purposes only. 

13.8 Table 7 provides example recoveries of chlorinated hydrocarbons obtained from the 

Florisil® cartridge procedure. These data are provided for guidance purposes only. 

13.9 Table 8 provides example elution patterns for aniline compounds from the Florisil® 

column procedure. These data are provided for guidance purposes only. 
SW-846 Update V 3620C - 18 Revision 4 

 July 2014 

14.0 POLLUTION PREVENTION 

 14.1 Pollution prevention encompasses any technique that reduces or eliminates the 

quantity and/or toxicity of waste at the point of generation. Numerous opportunities for pollution 

prevention exist in laboratory operation. The EPA has established a preferred hierarchy of 

environmental management techniques that places pollution prevention as the management 

option of first choice. Whenever feasible, laboratory personnel should use pollution prevention 

techniques to address their waste generation. When wastes cannot be feasibly reduced at the 

source, the Agency recommends recycling as the next best option. 

 14.2 For information about pollution prevention that may be applicable to laboratories 

and research institutions consult Less is Better: Laboratory Chemical Management for Waste 

Reduction, a free publication available from the American Chemical Society (ACS), Committee on 

Chemical Safety, http://portal.acs.org/portal/fileFetch/C/WPCP_012290/pdf/WPCP_012290.pdf. 

15.0 WASTE MANAGEMENT 

The Environmental Protection Agency requires that laboratory waste management 

practices be conducted consistent with all applicable rules and regulations. The Agency urges 

laboratories to protect the air, water, and land by minimizing and controlling all releases from 

hoods and bench operations, complying with the letter and spirit of any sewer discharge permits 

and regulations, and by complying with all solid and hazardous waste regulations, particularly the 

hazardous waste identification rules and land disposal restrictions. For further information on 

waste management, consult The Waste Management Manual for Laboratory Personnel available 

from the American Chemical Society at the address listed in Sec. 14.2. 

16.0 REFERENCES 

1. A. J. Gordon and R. A. Ford, The Chemist's Companion: A Handbook of Practical Data, 

Techniques, and References, New York: John Wiley & Sons, Inc., pp. 372, 374, and 375, 

1972. 

2. Floridin of ITT System, Florisil: Properties, Application, Bibliography, Pittsburgh, 

Pennsylvania, 5M381DW. 

3. P. A. Mills, "Variation of Florisil Activity; Simple Method for Measuring Absorbent Capacity 

and its use in Standardizing Florisil Columns," Journal of the Association of Official 

Analytical Chemists, 51, 29, 1968. 

4. U.S. Food and Drug Association, Pesticides Analytical Manual (Volume 1), July 1985. 

5. V. Lopez-Avila, J. Milanes, N. S. Dodhiwala, and W.F. Beckert, "Cleanup of Environmental 

Sample Extracts Using Florisil Solid-Phase Extraction Cartridges," J. Chrom. Sci. 27, 

209-215, 1989. 

6. U.S. EPA, "Evaluation of Sample Extract Cleanup Using Solid Phase Extraction Cartridges," 

Project Report, December 1989. 

7. U.S. EPA, Method 650, "Aniline and Selected Substituted Derivatives." 
SW-846 Update V 3620C - 19 Revision 4 

 July 2014 

8. W. F. Beckert and V. Lopez-Avila, "Evaluation of SW-846 Method 8060 for Phthalate 

Esters," Proceedings of the Fifth Annual Waste Testing and Quality Assurance Symposium, 

1989, pp. 144-156. 

9. U.S. EPA Method 608, Organochlorine Pesticides and PCBs, 40 CFR 136, October 26, 

1984. 

17.0 TABLES, DIAGRAMS, FLOW CHARTS, AND VALIDATION DATA 

The following pages contain the tables referenced by this method. 
SW-846 Update V 3620C - 20 Revision 4 

 July 2014 

TABLE 1 

 EXAMPLE AVERAGE RECOVERIES OF 16 PHTHALATE ESTERS FROM THE 

 Florisil® COLUMN PROCEDURE a

Compound Average Recovery (%)

Dimethyl phthalate 40

Diethyl phthalate 57

Diisobutyl phthalate 80

Di-n-butyl phthalate 85

Bis(4-methyl-2-pentyl) phthalate 84

Bis(2-methoxyethyl) phthalate 0

Diamyl phthalate 82

Bis(2-ethoxyethyl) phthalate 0

Hexyl 2-ethylhexyl phthalate 105

Dihexyl phthalate 74

Benzyl butyl phthalate 90

Bis(2-n-butoxyethyl) phthalate 0

Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate 82

Dicyclohexyl phthalate 84

Di-n-octyl phthalate 115

Dinonyl phthalate 72

a Average recovery from two determinations, data from Reference 8. 
SW-846 Update V 3620C - 21 Revision 4 

 July 2014 

TABLE 2 

 EXAMPLE AVERAGE RECOVERIES OF 16 PHTHALATE ESTERS 

 FROM Florisil® CARTRIDGES a

Compound Average Recovery (%)

Dimethyl phthalate 89

Diethyl phthalate 97

Diisobutyl phthalate 92

Di-n-butyl phthalate 102

Bis(4-methyl-2-pentyl) phthalate 105

Bis(2-methoxyethyl) phthalate 78

Diamyl phthalate 94

Bis(2-ethoxyethyl) phthalate 94

Hexyl 2-ethylhexyl phthalate 96

Dihexyl phthalate 97

Benzyl butyl phthalate 99

Bis(2-n-butoxyethyl) phthalate 92

Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate 98

Dicyclohexyl phthalate 90

Di-n-octyl phthalate 97

Dinonyl phthalate 105

a

 Average recovery from two determinations, data from Reference 6. 
SW-846 Update V 3620C - 22 Revision 4 

 July 2014 

TABLE 3 

 EXAMPLE DISTRIBUTION OF ORGANOCHLORINE PESTICIDES AND PCBs 

 IN Florisil® COLUMN FRACTIONS 

Percent Recovery by Fraction a

Compound Fraction 1 Fraction 2 Fraction 3

Aldrin 100

α-BHC 100

β-BHC 97

δ-BHC 98

γ-BHC 100

Chlordane 100

4,4'-DDD 99

4,4'-DDE 98

4,4'-DDT 100

Dieldrin 0 100

Endosulfan I 37 64

Endosulfan II 0 7 91

Endosulfan sulfate 0 0 106

Endrin 4 96

Endrin aldehyde 0 68 26

Heptachlor 100

Heptachlor epoxide 100

Toxaphene 96

Aroclor 1016 97

Aroclor 1221 97

Aroclor 1232 95 4

Aroclor 1242 97

Aroclor 1248 103

Aroclor 1254 90

Aroclor 1260 95

aEluant composition Fraction 1 -- 200 mL of 6% ethyl ether in hexane 

Fraction 2 -- 200 mL of 15% ethyl ether in hexane 

Fraction 3 -- 200 mL of 50% ethyl ether in hexane 

Data from Reference 9. 
SW-846 Update V 3620C - 23 Revision 4 

 July 2014 

TABLE 4 

 EXAMPLE AVERAGE RECOVERIES OF AROCLORS FROM Florisil® CARTRIDGES 

Compound Average Recovery (%)

Aroclor 1016 105

Aroclor 1221 76

Aroclor 1232 90

Aroclor 1242 94

Aroclor 1248 97

Aroclor 1254 95

Aroclor 1260 90
SW-846 Update V 3620C - 24 Revision 4 

 July 2014 

TABLE 5 

 EXAMPLE ELUTION PATTERNS AND RECOVERIES OF ORGANOCHLORINE PESTICIDES 

 FROM Florisil® CARTRIDGES a

Fraction 1 Fraction 2 Fraction 3

Compound % Rec. RSD % Rec. RSD % Rec. RSD

α-BHC - - 111 8.3 - -

β-BHC - - 109 7.8 - -

γ-BHC - - 110 8.5 - -

δ-BHC - - 106 9.3 - -

Heptachlor 98 11 - - - -

Aldrin 97 10 - - - -

Heptachlor epoxide - - 109 7.9 - -

Chlordane - - 105 3.5 - -

Endosulfan I - - 111 6.2 - -

4,4'-DDE 104 5.7 - - - -

Dieldrin - - 110 7.8 - -

4,4'-DDD - - 111 6.2 - -

Endosulfan II - - - - 111 2.3

Endrin aldehyde - - 49 14 48 12

4,4'-DDTb40 2.6 17 24 63 3.2

Endosulfan sulfateb - - - - - -

Methoxychlor - - 85 2.2 37 29

a

1-g Florisil® cartridges spiked with 0.5 μg of each compound. 

bThese two compounds coelute on the DB-5 capillary column. 

Eluant composition: Fraction 1 -- 3 mL of hexane 

Fraction 2 -- 5 mL of methylene chloride/hexane (26/74, v/v) 

Fraction 3 -- 5 mL of acetone/hexane (10/90, v/v) 
SW-846 Update V 3620C - 25 Revision 4 

 July 2014 

TABLE 6 

 EXAMPLE DISTRIBUTION OF ORGANOPHOSPHORUS PESTICIDES 

 IN Florisil® CLEANUP FRACTIONS 

Percent Recovery by Fraction

Compound Fraction 1 Fraction 2 Fraction 3 Fraction 4

Azinphos methyl 20 80

Bolstar (Sulprofos) ND ND ND ND

Chlorpyrifos >80

Coumaphos NR NR NR

Demeton 100

Diazinon 100

Dichlorvos NR NR NR

Dimethoate ND ND ND ND

Disulfoton 25-40

EPN >80

Ethoprop V V V

Fensulfothion ND ND ND ND

Fenthion R R

Malathion 5 95

Merphos V V V

Mevinphos ND ND ND ND

Monochrotophos ND ND ND ND

Naled NR NR NR

Parathion 100

Parathion methyl 100

Phorate 0-62

Ronnel >80

Stirophos (Tetrachlorvinphos) ND ND ND ND

Sulfotepp V V

TEPP ND ND ND ND

Tokuthion (Prothiofos) >80

Trichloronate >80

a

Eluant composition: Fraction 1 -- 200 mL of 6% ethyl ether in hexane 

Fraction 2 -- 200 mL of 15% ethyl ether in hexane 

Fraction 3 -- 200 mL of 50% ethyl ether in hexane 

Fraction 4 -- 200 mL of 100% ethyl ether 

R = Recovered (no percent recovery data provided by U.S. FDA) 

NR = Not recovered (U. S. FDA) 

V = Variable recovery (U. S. FDA) 

ND = Not determined 
SW-846 Update V 3620C - 26 Revision 4 

 July 2014 

TABLE 7 

 EXAMPLE PERCENT RECOVERIES AND ELUTION PATTERNS FOR 22 

 CHLORINATED HYDROCARBONS FROM 1-g Florisil® CARTRIDGES a

Fraction 2

Compound Average Recovery (%) RSD

Hexachloroethane 95 2.0

1,3-Dichlorobenzene 101 2.3

1,4-Dichlorobenzene 100 2.3

1,2-Dichlorobenzene 102 1.6

Benzyl chloride 101 1.5

1,3,5-Trichlorobenzene 98 2.2

Hexachlorobutadiene 95 2.0

Benzal chloride 99 0.8

1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene 99 0.8

Benzotrichloride 90 6.5

1,2,3-Trichlorobenzene 97 2.0

Hexachlorocyclopentadiene 103 3.3

1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene 98 2.3

1,2,3,5-Tetrachlorobenzene 98 2.3

1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene 99 1.3

2-Chloronaphthalene 95 1.4

Pentachlorobenzene 104 1.5

Hexachlorobenzene 78 1.1

α-BHC 100 0.4

γ-BHC 99 0.7

β-BHC 95 1.8

δ-BHC 97 2.7

aFlorisil® cartridges (Supelco, Inc.) were conditioned with 4 mL of hexane. Five replicate 

experiments were performed. 

The cartridges were spiked with 1.0 μg per cartridge for hexachloroethane, hexachlorobutadiene, 

hexachloropentadiene, pentachlorobenzne, and hexachlorobenzene. The trichlorobenzenes, 

tetrachlorobenzenes, benzal chloride, benzotrichloride, and the BHCs were spiked at 10 μg per 

cartridge. The dichlorobenzenes and benzyl chloride were spiked at 100 μg per cartridge, and 

2-chloronaphthalene was spiked at 200 μg per cartridge. 

The cartridges were eluted with 5 mL of acetone/hexane (10/90, v/v). 
SW-846 Update V 3620C - 27 Revision 4 

 July 2014 

TABLE 8 

 EXAMPLE DISTRIBUTION OF ANILINES IN Florisil® CLEANUP FRACTIONS 

Percent Recovery by Fractiona

Compound Fraction 1 Fraction 2 Fraction 3

Aniline 41 52

2-Chloroaniline 71 10

3-Chloroaniline 78 4

4-Chloroaniline 7 56 13

4-Bromoaniline 71 10

3,4-Dichloroaniline 83 1

2,4,6-Trichloroaniline 70 14

2,4,5-Trichloroaniline 35 53

2-Nitroaniline 91 9

3-Nitroaniline 89 11

4-Nitroaniline 67 30

2,4-Dinitroaniline 75

4-Chloro-2-nitroaniline 84

2-Chloro-4-nitroaniline 71 10

2,6-Dichloro-4-nitroaniline 89 9

2,6-Dibromo-4-nitroaniline 89 9

2-Bromo-6-chloro-4-nitroaniline 88 16

2-Chloro-4,6-dinitroaniline 76

2-Bromo-4,6-dinitroaniline 100

Eluant composition: Fraction 1 -- 50% methylene chloride in hexane 

Fraction 2 -- 5% 2-propanol in hexane 

Fraction 3 -- 5% methanol in hexane 

 
SW-846 Update V 3620C - 28 Revision 4 

 July 2014 

Appendix A 

Summary of Revisions to Method 3620C (From Revision 3, February 2007) 

1. Improved overall method formatting for consistency with new SW-846 methods style 

guidance. The format was updated to Microsoft Word .docx. 

2. The revision number was changed to 4 and the footer date to July 2014. 

3. Minor editorial and technical revisions were made throughout to improve method clarity. 

4. The unit for trichlorophenol in Sec. 7.1.1 was corrected to 0.1 mg/L. 

5. The ratio specified in Sec. 11.3.4 was corrected to methylene choride/acetonitrile/hexane 

(50/0.35/49.65).