Examination of Surface Water Samples Using Gas Chromatography-Atomic Emission Detection

In two separate pesticide monitoring studies, surface water samples were collected from different locations in southern Ontario. Following clean up, the extracts were initially analyzed for selected P-containing pesticides using capillary column GC equipped with N/P and ECD detectors. These extracts were subsequently analyzed by GC-AED for C-, S-, N-, P- and O-containing compounds. All target compounds identified by GC-NPD/ECD analysis were detected using the GC-AED technique. Concentrations of the target compounds were comparable as calculated from the results of both methods of analysis. Additional non-target compounds containing S and N were identified in the samples. The peaks were collated with respect to retention time and response. One of these compounds, benzothiazole, was found in 27 of the 34 samples.