OTM-50

What is OTM-50?

Other Test Method 50 (OTM-50) is a U.S. EPA analytical method used to monitor volatile fluorinated compounds (VFCs) in air emissions from stationary sources, particularly those resulting from the incomplete destruction of PFAS. Using evacuated canisters and advanced thermal desorption–gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (TD–GC–MS), OTM-50 detects lower-molecular-weight fluorinated byproducts that may escape into the environment when PFAS are not fully mineralized. As one of two EPA “Other Test Methods” for airborne fluorinated organic compounds (the other being OTM-45 for semivolatile PFAS), OTM-50 plays a critical role in verifying PFAS destruction efficiency and mitigating the risks posed by PFAS emissions.

OTM-50 PFAS Emissions Testing Services

Advanced OTM-50 Testing for Volatile Fluorinated Compounds (VFCs)

Ensure your PFAS destruction process meets regulatory expectations with OTM-50 emissions testing from the industry’s most trusted laboratory. Our team of experts deliver precise, actionable data on volatile fluorinated compounds (VFCs) using EPA’s OTM-50 method which is critical for facilities engaged in PFAS destruction and thermal treatment. This method is essential for verifying PFAS destruction efficiency and supporting compliance with the EPA’s Destruction and Disposal Guidance. Our lab was a key partner in the method’s development and continues to lead the field with unmatched technical expertise and regulatory insight.

The EPA’s OTM-50 method is designed to measure 30 volatile, nonpolar fluorinated compounds released from stationary sources including:

OTM-50 Testing Expertise You Can Trust

• Validated Methodology: We use evacuated, passivated stainless-steel canisters to capture emissions with accuracy and precision.
• Trained Specialists: With decades of experience, our analytical chemists excel in managing complex chemistries in complex emissions sources.
• Comprehensive Planning: We help clients define testing objectives, identify appropriate sampling strategies (grab or integrated), and evaluate pollution control measures.
• Data Quality Assurance: Avoid costly project setbacks with our meticulous approach to sampling, baseline assessment, and contextual data collection.

OTM-50 testing is ideal for:

• Thermal treatment facilities destroying PFAS
• Full-scale or bench-scale testing scenarios
• Facilities evaluating Destruction and Removal Efficiency (DRE)
• Sources with known or suspected VFC emissions
• Projects requiring both target analyte and TIC reporting

Important: OTM-50 should not be applied in isolation. Our team ensures your testing program aligns with EPA expectations, including validation of CO₂ levels and baseline monitoring for other air pollutants.

Common OTM-50 Challenges

• Unknown or untested matrices
• Lack of baseline emissions data
• Inexperience with stack sampling
• Damaged sampling canisters or contaminated data

Our strategic partnerships will assist you with pre-test planning, source evaluations, and hands-on support eliminating guesswork which protects your investment and ensures data integrity.

Beyond Stack Testing: Customized OTM-50 Applications

While OTM-50 is tailored for stack emissions, we offer modified sampling methods for a wide range of applications. Contact us today to learn how OTM-50 can support your PFAS monitoring goals beyond traditional stack testing. We’ll guide you through every step, from pre-test design to regulatory reporting.

Contact us today and partner with the leader in source emissions testing since 1968.