EPA TO-3 Hydrocarbons by Cryogenic Concentration
The EPA TO-3 FID Detailed Hydrocarbon Analysis method is used for the analysis of hydrocarbons and oxygenated hydrocarbons, such as methanol and MTBE, in ambient air and gas samples. A dedicated gas chromatograph (GC) equipped with a flame ionization detector (FID) is used. The FID provides maximum sensitivity for hydrocarbons and has a selective response to carbon atoms.
Word about Method Detection Limits (MDL)
Defining Detection Limits
Detection Limits are used to specify the lowest concentration of a compound that can be measured reliably by the analytical method. There are several definitions for the detection limits used by laboratories so it is important to understand the differences, so that the objectives of your project are met. On this web site, the term detection limit is used as a general term to collectively describe the more specific terms such as the Method Detection Limit (MDL), Lower Quantitation Limit (LQL), Reporting Limit (RL), and Method Reporting Limit (MRL), and Practical Quantitation Limit (PQL).