Carbon Disulfide (CS2)
Definition
The standard elution solvent for activated charcoal strips in ASTM E1412 passive headspace analysis. Selected for its low UV absorption, minimal GC-FID response (does not mask early-eluting analytes), and efficient desorption of non-polar hydrocarbons from charcoal.
- Role
- Elution solvent for activated charcoal strips
- Method
- ASTM E1412 passive headspace analysis
- Selected for
- Low UV absorption, minimal GC-FID response
- Target analytes
- Non-polar hydrocarbons desorbed from charcoal
Common questions
Why is minimal GC-FID response from the solvent itself important?+
A solvent peak that overlaps with early-eluting ignitable liquid components would mask or obscure them on the chromatogram. Carbon disulfide's weak flame-ionization response keeps the solvent's own peak from hiding these low-boiling accelerant residues.
Are there safety considerations specific to carbon disulfide in the lab?+
Yes, it is highly flammable and toxic with a low ignition temperature, so laboratories handle it under fume hood ventilation and controlled storage, distinct handling requirements compared with less hazardous extraction solvents.
What happens if a different solvent is substituted for carbon disulfide?+
A substitute solvent with stronger UV absorption or a larger FID response risks obscuring early-eluting accelerant peaks or introducing its own chromatographic interference, which is why ASTM E1412 specifies carbon disulfide as the validated elution solvent.
Related terms
- ASTM E1618
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- Ignitable Liquid Reference Collection (ILRC)
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- Light Petroleum Distillate (LPD)
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- Passive Headspace Concentration
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- Total Ion Chromatogram (TIC)
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