ISO/TS 17182:2014 describes the gas chromatographic determination of phenols, methyl phenols, di-methylphenols and tri-methylphenols (see Table 1) and selected chlorophenols (see Table 2) by using mass spectrometric detection in soil samples. This method can also be used for other solid samples, such as sediments and solid wastes. This International Standard describes an acidic liquid extraction of soil, followed by acetylation and then liquid/liquid extraction. Determination takes place by gas chromatography and mass spectrometric detection.

With this method, phenols and chlorophenols can be determined at the lowest of mass concentrations ranging from approximately 0,01 mg/kg to 0,1 mg/kg depending on the component sensitivity and the quantity of sample used. In some cases, complete separation of isomers cannot be achieved. Then the sum is reported.

NOTE With this method, other higher methylated phenols can also be analysed provided that the suitability and the validity of the method is proven.