What is trace organic analysis?
Generally, we will define trace organic analysis as analyses for organic compounds present at or below the part-per-thousand level in a sample. The analysis provides the identity (qualitative result) and the amount (quantitative result). The challenge is to perform the analysis under conditions where the relative amounts of other substances in the sample are vastly greater than that of the analyte. Often, we will find it necessary to separate the analyte from the bulk of the other substances (potential interferences) in the sample (matrix) before a final determination (amount) can be accomplished. Generally, the final determination involves a final separation/detection.
