EPA / VOA Vials

The 40 mL vial is the standard for EPA drinking water methods (524.2, 524.4) and requires 40 mL of sample. The 20 mL vial is used for purge-and-trap or headspace methods where less sample is needed, and for soil/solid samples extracted via EPA 5035.

We offer VOA vials with and without preservatives. Pre-dosed vials contain hydrochloric acid (HCl) to pH <2 for preservation of trihalomethanes and other chlorinated VOCs, or sodium thiosulfate to neutralize residual chlorine. Check your method requirements to select the correct preservative.

Certified clean VOA vials have been tested for target VOC contamination at the manufacturing lot level. Each lot ships with a certificate of analysis (COA) confirming that blank levels are below EPA method detection limits. This eliminates the need to run trip blanks with every shipment.

Yes. VOA vials are also used for semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs) under EPA Method 8270. Amber vials are preferred for light-sensitive SVOCs such as PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons). Ensure the septum is PTFE-lined to prevent extractable interference.

Store collected samples at 4°C (±2°C) in the dark immediately after collection. Most EPA methods require analysis within 14 days of collection for preserved samples. Unpreserved samples typically have a 7-day hold time. Always maintain chain-of-custody documentation.