Determination of Trace Nitroaromatic, Nitroamine, and Nitrate Ester Compounds for EPA Method 8330BT

This application note demonstrates the capabilities of the Horizon Technology SPE-DEX® 4790 Automated Extractor System when used for the analysis of nitramine, nitroaromatic, and nitrate ester compounds in surface and ground water. EPA Method 8330B provides high performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) conditions for the detection of parts per billion (ppb) levels of certain explosives residues in surface or ground water. Nitroaromatic compounds are usually associated with explosive manufacturing and ordinance facilities. Common nitroaromatic compounds include trinitrotoluene (TNT) and dinitrotoluene (DNT). Nitramines are the most recently introduced class of organic nitrate explosives.