What is ISO 15009– Soil quality about?
ISO 15009 specifies a method for quantitative gas-chromatographic determination of volatile aromatic hydrocarbons, naphthalene, and volatile halogenated hydrocarbons in soil.
This International Standard applies to all types of soil.
Under the conditions specified in this ISO 15009 the following limits of quantification apply (expressed on basis of dry matter):
Typical limit of quantification when using GC-FID:
- Volatile aromatic hydrocarbons: 0,1 mg/kg Typical limit of quantification when using GC-ECD
- Volatile halogenated hydrocarbons: 0,01 mg/kg Lower limits of quantification for some compounds can be achieved by using mass spectrometry (MS) with selected ion detection
NOTE In the case of unsaturated peaty soils, absorption of the extraction solution may occur.
The lower limit of quantification is dependent on the equipment used and the quality of the methanol grade used for the extraction of the soil sample.
Who is ISO 15009– Soil quality for?
ISO 15009 on water quality is relevant to:
- Chemical Engineer
- Researchers and scientists
- Microbiologists
Why should you use ISO 15009– Soil quality?
The volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are organic molecules - specifically hydrocarbons - that produce undesirable effects in the atmosphere.
ISO 15009 provides methods and procedures for determining the content of volatile aromatic hydrocarbon, naphthalene, and volatile halogenated hydrocarbons using the purge-and trap method with thermal desorption.
ISO 15009 specifies methods for measuring volatile aromatic hydrocarbon, sampling, and monitoring, and preparing samples for the testing methods.
As a result of the ISO 15009, you can extract the volatile aromatic hydrocarbon from the soil, improving the fertility of the soil, making it more nourishing and promoting the growth of crops, and will be widely accepted by farmers worldwide.

