Simple field screening method for white phosphorus (P4) in sediment Walsh, Marianne E et al
Publication details: Hanover, NH Cold Regions Research & Engineering Laboratory, 1995; CRREL special report 95-25, Description: 8 sSubject(s): Online resources: Bibl.nr: VTI P8109:95-25Location: Abstract: A simple field screening method to detect white phosphorus particles in sediment is described. A thin layer of wet sediment is heated until all water evaporates. The presence of white phosphorus is indicated by visual detection of the inflammation of white phosphorus particles that occurs at relatively low temperatures (less than 40 C) once a protective layer of water is removed. The field screening method consistently gave positive results for samples where solvent extraction followed by gas chromatography indicated white phosphorus concentrations above 1 g/g. A more sophisticated method, based on solid-phase microextraction and gas chromotography determination, was also tested. Concentrations less than 1 g/kg were detectable.A simple field screening method to detect white phosphorus particles in sediment is described. A thin layer of wet sediment is heated until all water evaporates. The presence of white phosphorus is indicated by visual detection of the inflammation of white phosphorus particles that occurs at relatively low temperatures (less than 40 C) once a protective layer of water is removed. The field screening method consistently gave positive results for samples where solvent extraction followed by gas chromatography indicated white phosphorus concentrations above 1 g/g. A more sophisticated method, based on solid-phase microextraction and gas chromotography determination, was also tested. Concentrations less than 1 g/kg were detectable.