Blog | Organomation

Preparing Diverse Sample Matrices for EPA Method 1633

Written by David Oliva | July 02, 2024

 
Organomation blowdown evaporators are well known by those completing PFAS methods focused on drinking water, specifically EPA Method 533 and 537.1. While the N-EVAP tends to be most popular with academic researchers, environmental labs needing to concentrate large sample batches prefer the MULTIVAP evaporator.

EPA Method 1633 is a meticulous analytical procedure designed to identify and quantify per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in various matrices, including solids, aqueous samples, and biological tissues. This method is essential for monitoring these persistent and potentially hazardous compounds in environmental and biological contexts.

While the method does not always mandate the use of evaporation, it offers flexibility for laboratories to integrate evaporation steps to optimize sample concentration. Organomation evaporators are particularly well-suited for this task, offering efficient and reliable sample preparation across different matrices. This article explores how Organomation evaporators, specifically the 24 Position MICROVAP, N-EVAP, and MULTIVAP, effectively concentrate samples for EPA Method 1633.

→ Discover: PFAS Sample Preparation: The Definitive Guide

 

Overview of EPA Method 1633

EPA Method 1633 covers three primary matrices:

1. Solids: Includes soil, sediment, and sludge.
2. Aqueous Samples: Comprising water samples from various sources.
3. Tissue: Pertains to biological tissues, typically from aquatic organisms.

For each matrix, specific sample preparation steps are crucial to isolate and concentrate PFAS compounds for accurate quantification.

 

The Role of Evaporation in Sample Preparation

Aqueous Samples

While the method does not explicitly require evaporation for aqueous samples, laboratories may opt to modify the Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) procedure to incorporate evaporation. This is particularly useful when concentrating samples for more sensitive detection limits or when working with smaller volumes of methanol (less than 1 mL). For these applications, the 24 Position MICROVAP Evaporator is an ideal solution.

Key Features of the 24 Position MICROVAP:

1. Capacity: Can handle up to 24 samples simultaneously, enhancing throughput and efficiency.
2. Precision: Allows precise control of evaporation parameters, crucial for maintaining sample integrity.
3. Compact Design: Suitable for laboratories with limited space.

The MICROVAP ensures that the evaporation process is both efficient and consistent, providing concentrated samples that meet the stringent requirements of EPA Method 1633.


Solid and Tissue Samples

For solid and tissue samples, evaporation is a critical step in the concentration process. These procedures typically require the evaporation of approximately 20 mL of methanol.

Organomation's N-EVAP and MULTIVAP evaporators are particularly effective for this task. Depending on the configuration, these evaporators can efficiently remove 20 mL of methanol within 1-2 hours, making them ideal for high-throughput laboratory environments.

N-EVAP Evaporators:

1. Efficiency: Capable of evaporating multiple samples simultaneously.
2. Adaptability: Can be configured to accommodate different sample sizes and types.
3. Precision: Offers precise control over evaporation conditions, ensuring uniform sample concentration.

→ Discover: How Waters Corp uses an N-EVAP to concentrate PFAS samples ahead of LC-MS


MULTIVAP Evaporators:

1. High Capacity: Designed to handle multiple samples at once, enhancing throughput for busy laboratories. Perfect for evaporating batches between 50 and 100 samples.
2. Versatility: Suitable for various solvents and sample types, providing flexibility in sample preparation.
3. Rapid Evaporation: Efficiently removes solvent, reducing processing time while maintaining sample integrity.

→ Discover: MULTIVAP Batch Evaporator Increases LC-MS Sample Prep Efficiency by 400%

 

How Organomation Evaporators Enhance EPA Method 1633 Efficiency

Organomation evaporators contribute significantly to the successful implementation of EPA Method 1633 by offering:

1. Consistent Sample Concentration: Ensuring that samples are uniformly concentrated for accurate and reliable analysis.

2. Flexible Configurations: Adaptable to different sample volumes and matrices, providing versatility in sample preparation.

3. Precision and Control: Advanced features allow for fine-tuning of evaporation parameters, preserving sample integrity and ensuring compliance with method requirements.

4. Amazing Value: All three blowdown evaporator lines can reliably operate in your laboratory for decades and are considerably more affordable than Biotage’s TurboVap.

EPA Method 1633 requires precise and efficient sample preparation to accurately quantify PFAS compounds in various matrices. Organomation evaporators, including the 24 Position MICROVAP, N-EVAP, and MULTIVAP, offer the reliability, efficiency, and versatility needed to meet these demands. By integrating Organomation evaporators into their workflows, laboratories can enhance their compliance with EPA Method 1633, ensuring accurate and consistent results in their PFAS analysis.

Whether dealing with aqueous, solid, or tissue samples, Organomation evaporators provide the optimal solution for efficient and reliable sample concentration, making them indispensable tools in the fight against environmental contamination.

For questions regarding your sample preparation needs, reach out to our experts at sales@organomation.com or start a live chat