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Analytical techniques for measuring trace arsenic (As)concentrations, such as the method described in thisarticle, have much lower detection limits than conventionalAs measurement methods, and broader adoptionof such methods could potentially drive a revision of thepractical quantitation limit (PQL) for As in the future.Arsenic detection is limited by chloride interferencein transmission quadrupole inductively coupled plasma/mass spectrometry (ICP/MS). However, high-resolutionICP/MS can measure As concentrations as low as 29ng/L. The (nonenforceable) federal and Californiahealth standards for As are substantially lower than thePQL, so in the future a lower PQL could be acontributing factor when evaluating and reportingregulatory standards.These conclusions are likely to affect the decisionsthat water utility managers make about new andupgraded analytical equipment and treatment processesfor As and other contaminants for which the PQL iscurrently greater than corresponding health standards.Water utility managers need to understand that thePQL is a moving target and incorporate that knowledgewhen planning for future analytical, reporting,and treatment operations. Includes 23 references, tables, figures.

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Edition: Vol. 99 - No. 8 Published: 08/01/2007 Number of Pages: 7 File Size: 1 file , 200 KB