Shipping Samples
1. Samples can be shipped directly in the GCMS vial that they will be analysed in. Suitable vials are Fisherbrand 2 mL Clear Vial PTFE/SIL Cat. No. 03-391-15 with GCMS caps, Fisherbrand 9mm Blue Cap T/S Cat. No 03-391-14
2. When shipping the vials be sure to a) mark the level of the solvent on the vial, b) wrap vials with parafilm, and label them
3. The solvent carrier must comply with the United States Center for Disease Control (CDC) and United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) as being non-etiologic (biologically active). The samples must further comply with a variety of environmental regulations (Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA)) which are laid out by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA).
4. A searchable database which lists TSCA restrictions on a variety of compounds is available at Cornell University. This data base lists whether or not the compound is unknown, variable, complex, and biological (UVCB) or a known regulated material. It also gives the Chemical Abstracts (CAS) chemical registration number and formula.
5. The shipping company may have a specific form that must be filled out. The DHL shipping form requests statement of TSCA applicability, CAS number and forumla.
6. A form letter from Alanah Fitch specifying that the sample is part of a scientific project for analysis of water samples, with the solvent carrier, and the non-etiologic label can be obtained by contacting Alanah Fitch (afitch@luc.edu) at the time that you are arranging for time on the GC-MS.
7. Shipping generally takes 1-2 weeks, depending on whether the sample gets derailed in New York for TSCA compliance check. The cost of shipping approximately 50 vials is $50 (DHL) and the cost is borne by the GLIC consortium.
