Determination of total organic halogens (TOX); Bias from a non-halogenated organic compound

Determination of total organic halogens (TOX) has proven susceptible to bias from high concentrations of a non-halogenated organic compound, N- butylbenzenesulfonamide (NBSA). High apparent TOX values occurred with more than 5-10 mg of NBSA applied to the carbon columns of the TOX procedure. Other non-halogenated organic compounds and inorganic sulfide may bias the method as well. When the TOX method is used as a measure of total organic halogens in environmental regulation and control, the risk of positive bias from non-halogenated compounds should always be emphasized.

Determination of total organic halogens (TOX) has proven susceptible to bias from high concentrations of a non-halogenated organic compound, N-butylbenzenesulfonamide (NBSA). High apparent TOX values occurred with more than 5-10 mg of NBSA applied to the carbon columns of the TOX procedure. Other non-halogenated organic compounds and inorganic sulfide may bias the method as well. When the TOX method is used as a measure of total organic halogens in environmental regulation and control, the risk of positive bias from non-halogenated compounds should always be emphasized.