Chromatography Forum

Hi,

We have been seeing contamination in some 8270 extracts, specifically for 1,4-dioxane SIM analysis; present mostly in soils as opposed to waters.

Contamination appears to be a combination of 2,5-dimethylfuran and 2,4-dimethylfuran.

Tests indicate significant levels of these two compounds when we test using acetone only. Contamination is very low when using only methylene chloride.

We are using Optima grade acetone. Could this contamination really be coming right out of the bottles? Curious if anyone has seen this before.

Thank you.

We see interferences from reagents in water testing. Which SIM mass(es) is the interference observed?

What level of contamination are you seeing?
Is there a difference in samples that are extracted with 1:1 DCM Acetone?
Using sodium sulfate to dry samples? Has it been baked prior to use?

Good luck

Levels are estimated at 25-200+ ppm off instrument. We need this level down <10ppm.

Tests reveal Optima grade acetone contains 2,5-dimethylfuran, C9H20 isomers, diacetone alcohol, and 1-methylethylbenzene.

We will be trying Honeywell (not sure which product) that we've used in the past with good success, although we had an issue with product availability and cost that lead to the switch.