E-School

Historically, field analysis of environmental samples has yielded numbers that, in many cases, were not regarded as being truly quantitative analytical data but were considered to be more qualitative in nature – a “yes/no” indicator of whether or not a chemical constituent was present. Over the past decade, there have been tremendous advances in the types and level of accuracy of field analytical tools available for the field chemist and non-chemist alike. In many cases, these new tools can provide quantitative data that can be used to accurately characterize the presence, absence and levels of specific contaminants in the subsurface. This module describes how to design an effective field analytical program from the non-chemist’s perspective and provides guidance on how to ensure that data generated are both accurate and defensible. In-depth discussions are provided to address how to select the best parameters, analytical instruments and methods to meet the objectives of a field analytical program. This module also provides an overview of analytical instruments and methods available for volatile, semi-volatile and non-volatile contaminants commonly of interest in environmental site investigation and characterization programs.

Module ES–15 (Total Length: 78 minutes) Price: $159.00 Register via Your E-School Account

Field Sample Analysis Options for Soil Samples

Problems with Historical Approaches to Field Sample Screening
The Role of U.S. EPA’s Triad Program and ITRC in Getting New Technologies Into the Field
How to Ensure That Field Analytical Data Will be Accepted by Regulatory Agencies
Field and Administrative Factors to Consider When Developing a Field Sample Analysis Program
Common Objectives of Field Sample Analysis
Selection Criteria for Choosing Field Analytical Instruments and Methods for the Non-Chemist
Overview of Field Analytical Instruments and Methods for Volatile Compounds, Including Headspace Screening of Soil Samples
Soil Sample Extraction and Field Analytical Methods for Semi-Volatile Compounds
Direct Sample Analysis Methods for Non-Volatile Compounds Such as Metals

Total CEUs for Module ES-15: 1.3 CEUs

During drilling of boreholes for site characterization and monitoring well installation, soil samples must be collected at the site to document site-specific geologic conditions in the subsurface. These soil samples are used to develop a detailed understanding of site hydrogeology, to determine the presence/absence of contamination, to determine the location, physical and chemical characteristics of target monitoring zones in which wells will be installed, and to design well screens and filter packs. This series of two modules uses a comprehensive series of classroom and field videos to provide instruction on proper procedures for collection of soil samples for both physical and chemical analysis, parameters and techniques for detailed physical soil sample description, and proper handling of soil samples during sampling events. While you may opt to take just one of these modules, it is strongly recommended that you take both modules in the prescribed order if you want comprehensive coverage of the subject.

Module ES-16 (Total Length: 65 minutes) Price: $159.00 Log in to Your E-School Account to Register

Soil Sample Collection, Description & Handling in the Field -- Planning and Preparation for Soil Sample Collection and Description; Describing Soil Samples in the Field (Part 1)

Objectives of Soil Sample Description
Important Principles Applied in Soil Sample Description
Preparing for a Soil Sampling Event
- Items to Discuss With the Drilling/Direct-Push Contractor Prior to Mobilizing to the Site
- Equipment and Materials Recommended for Soil Sample Description and Handling
- Checklists for Soil Sample Description in the Field

Soil Classification Systems – USCS (ASTM Standards D 2487 and D 2488), USDA and Others
Describing Soil Samples – 26 Physical Sample Descriptors to Record (Part 1)
- Grain Size, Degree of Sorting, Particle Angularity/Roundness/Shape, Mineralogy, Density/Consistency, Plasticity/Cohesiveness, Moisture Content, Color (Including Use of Munsell Soil Color Charts)

Module ES-17 (Total Length: 85 minutes) Price: $159.00 Log into Your E-School Account to Register

Soil Sample Collection, Description & Handling in the Field -- Describing Soil Samples in the Field (Part 2); Handling Soil Samples in the Field

Describing Soil Samples – 26 Physical Sample Descriptors to Record (Part 2)
- Sedimentary Features, Presence of Macropores, Redox Conditions, Organic Matter, Degree of Weathering, Carbonate Content, and Other Descriptors