Sampling Techniques for Organic Substances in Surface Waters

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Abstract
A crucial step in the measurement of organic compounds in surface waters is collecting samples representative of the system at the time of sampling and ensuring that no extraneous materials are introduced or target compounds removed during the sampling or transport and storage prior to analysis. The various associations of many organic compounds in natural waters with colloid and suspended materials including microorganisms and algae, have led to fundamental short-comings in describing the sample matrix. Techniques are not generally available at the moment to separate compounds on the basis of their occurrence in associated forms in waters, i.e. the majority of measurements are for “whole” water samples including particulate material. Sampling strategy is primarily determined by factors such as the overall objectives of the measurement, financial constraints and logistic considerations. This paper briefly examines sampling methodologies common to a range of non-Volatile organic compounds with particular attention given to some current problem areas. There is an increasing requirement for intensive sampling to monitor episodic events in rivers that place great demands on current techniques, particularly with respect to sample integrity and stability.