ISO 11916-2:2013 PDF

Overview

ISO 11916-2:2013 specifies a laboratory method for the determination of selected explosives and related compounds in soils using gas chromatography (GC) with electron capture detection (ECD) or mass spectrometric detection (MS). The standard targets nitroaromatics and nitroamines (e.g., TNT, 2,4‑DNT, 2,6‑DNT, nitrobenzene and related isomers) for trace analysis and reliable identification at low concentrations. Under the conditions given in the standard, concentrations as low as 0.05 mg/kg dry matter can be determined (substance dependent). The method is not suitable for RDX, HMX, PETN, tetryl or hexyl analysis.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Analytes covered: Selected nitroaromatics and nitroamines listed in the standard (see Table 1 of ISO 11916-2); similar compounds may be validated experimentally.
• Extraction techniques: Ultrasonic bath extraction (USE), mechanical shaking extraction (MSE), Soxhlet (SOX) or pressurized liquid extraction (PLE).
• Solvent handling: Initial extraction in methanol, followed by liquid–liquid solvent exchange into toluene, washing to remove methanol, drying and reconstitution for GC injection.
• Detection and identification: GC with ECD (for high sensitivity to electronegative compounds) or GC‑MS (for specific mass spectral identification). Use of two columns of different polarities or MS fragment ions is recommended for unambiguous identification.
• Calibration and standards: Multi-level calibration (minimum five concentration levels) prepared from certified or laboratory stock solutions; method‑checking standards (e.g., 2,5‑DNT) and method blanks to check contamination.
• Sample handling and QA: Procedures for sample pretreatment, sieving, water-content determination, storage (4 ± 2 °C up to 1 week; −20 °C for longer storage), method blanks, and quality assurance are specified. Attention to explosive safety during transport and storage is emphasized.
• Performance: Detectable down to ~0.05 mg/kg dry matter depending on compound; precision data and suggested GC/ECD and GC/MS conditions are provided in annexes.

Applications and who uses it

• Environmental testing laboratories performing site assessments for military ranges, former munitions plants and contaminated land.
• Remediation consultants evaluating contaminant levels and toxic potential (e.g., soils contaminated with 2,6‑DNT).
• Regulatory and public‑health agencies setting cleanup criteria and monitoring compliance.
• Forensic and defense labs requiring trace-level identification of nitroaromatics.
• Research groups studying fate, transport and toxicology of explosive residues in soils.

Related standards

• ISO 11916-1 (HPLC with UV detection) - complementary method for similar analytes.
• ISO 22892 - GC/MS identification guidelines.
• ISO 11465 - soil dry matter and water content determination.
• ISO 565 - sieving requirements for sample preparation.

Keywords: ISO 11916-2, soil quality, explosives in soil, GC‑ECD, GC‑MS, nitroaromatics, 2,6‑DNT, trace analysis, environmental monitoring.