Contaminants, PCBs & Halogenated Compounds
Quantification of halogenated hydrocarbons, PCBs, and related contaminants in fuels, oils, and industrial samples. Advanced chromatographic and spectrometric methods ensure trace-level detection and regulatory compliance.
Polychlorinated Biphenyls
Overview
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are environmentally persistent, toxic compounds that were historically used in insulating liquids for electrical equipment such as transformers and capacitors. Although their use has been banned or severely restricted, residual PCBs can still be present in older systems or recycled materials. Detecting and quantifying PCBs in insulating liquids is essential for environmental protection, equipment maintenance, and regulatory compliance. Accurate analysis ensures safe handling, disposal, and continued reliability of electrical insulating materials.
Test Methods
Solutions
Gas Chromatography with Electron Capture Detection (GC-ECD) provides a highly sensitive and selective technique for the determination of PCBs in insulating liquids. The GC efficiently separates individual PCB congeners, while the ECD detector offers exceptional responsiveness to halogenated compounds, allowing detection at trace levels. This method delivers excellent precision, reproducibility, and low detection limits, making it ideal for compliance testing and quality assurance. By utilizing GC-ECD, laboratories can confidently assess PCB contamination, ensure adherence to environmental standards, and maintain the integrity of insulating fluids used in electrical applications.
Featured GC-ECD
Discover a wide range of lab equipment from top manufacturers at SpectraLab. View all to find more GC-ECD equipment!
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)
Overview
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are a group of synthetic chlorinated compounds once used in electrical equipment, including transformers and capacitors, for their stability and insulating properties. However, PCBs are now recognized as persistent organic pollutants with significant environmental and health risks. In mineral insulating oils, even trace amounts of PCBs can indicate contamination or legacy residue from older equipment. Accurate determination of PCBs is critical to ensure safety, regulatory compliance, and proper management of electrical insulating materials.
Test Methods
–
Solutions
Gas Chromatography with Electron Capture Detection (GC-ECD) offers a highly sensitive and selective method for detecting PCBs in mineral insulating oils. The GC separates individual PCB congeners, while the ECD provides exceptional sensitivity to halogenated compounds, enabling the detection of trace contamination levels. This technique ensures precise, reliable quantification with minimal sample interference. By applying GC-ECD analysis, laboratories can effectively monitor PCB contamination, support environmental compliance, and maintain the integrity and safety of insulating oil systems.
Featured GC-ECD
Discover a wide range of lab equipment from top manufacturers at SpectraLab. View all to find more GC-ECD equipment!
Halocarbons
Overview
Halocarbons, a class of compounds containing carbon bonded to halogen atoms such as chlorine, fluorine, or bromine, are widely used as refrigerants, propellants, solvents, and intermediates in chemical manufacturing. Due to their volatility and environmental impact—particularly their role in ozone depletion and greenhouse gas emissions—accurate identification and quantification of halocarbons are essential. Monitoring their concentration in industrial products and environmental samples ensures safety, quality control, and compliance with environmental regulations.
Test Methods
–
Solutions
Gas Chromatography with Flame Ionization Detection (GC-FID) provides a robust and sensitive method for analyzing halocarbons in various matrices. The GC efficiently separates halocarbon compounds based on their boiling points and polarity, while the FID detects and quantifies them with high accuracy and reproducibility. This technique offers rapid analysis, excellent resolution, and a wide dynamic range, making it ideal for routine monitoring and quality assurance. By using GC-FID, laboratories can ensure reliable detection of halocarbons, support environmental compliance, and maintain product integrity across industrial applications.
Featured GC-FID
Discover a wide range of lab equipment from top manufacturers at SpectraLab. View all to find more GC-FID equipment!
SpectraLab Scientific Inc
Established in 2003,
SpectraLab Scientific is a global leader of Refurbished analytical equipment. We specialize in reconditioning equipment, integrating the best available technologies from leading manufacturers across the industry. We are committed to quality and service, delivering strong customer satisfaction. We stock over 10,000 pre-owned lab equipment, components, and mix-and-match parts for your systems.