Comparison of EPA Methods 300.1, 317, 326 and 302 for Bromate Analysis

(originally aired 03-29-12)

Initially U.S. EPA 300.1 (IC with conductivity detection) sufficed for bromate regulatory requirements. As bromate toxicity concerns increased, lower regulatory limits (and lower MDLs) were imposed, leading to use of EPA 317's and 326's postcolumn derivatization and visible detection methods, although they sacrifice robustness and ease of use. Simultaneously, enhancements in column chemistry improved the MDLs possible with EPA 300.1. And since it is still impossible to overcome matrix effects with certain drinking water samples, EPA 302's 2-D IC method was approved to maintain testing ease-of-use and robustness. Here, experts detail the bromate analysis methods and necessary validation steps.