Standard Test Method for Screening Trichloroethylene (TCE)-Contaminated Media Using a Heated Diode Sensor

1.1 This test method describes procedures for screening media known to contain the halogenated volatile organic compound (HVOC), trichloroethylene (TCE). Procedure A is to be used for screening soil known to contain TCE and Procedure B is to be used for screening water known to contain TCE.

1.1.1 Both Procedures A and B involve measuring the TCE concentration in the headspace above a sample using a heated diode sensor device. From this measurement, an estimated concentration of TCE in the sample can be determined. Any TCE remaining in the sample is not measured. Any other HVOC present in the sample will be reported as TCE.

1.2 Procedure A can also be used for screening the headspace above a soil suspected of containing HVOC contamination to indicate the presence or absence of HVOC contamination in the soil. Procedure B can also be used for screening the headspace above a water suspected of containing HVOC contamination to indicate the presence or absence of HVOC contamination in the water. For both procedures, any HVOC contamination remaining in the soil or water is not detected by this test method.

This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the application of regulatory limitations prior to use.

The diode sensor is heated to temperatures ranging between approximately 600 and 1000 C (see ) and as a result could be a source of ignition.