Qualitative determination of low-molecular-weight organic acids in mixed hazardous wastes using thermospray liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry

A technique has been developed for the qualitative determination of low-molecular-weight organic acids in radioactive, mixed hazardous wastes using thermospray liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. A tank waste was analyzed, and the results indicated the presence of citric, glycolic, acetic, and nitrosoiminodiacetic acid (NIDA). Further investigation revealed NIDA was formed under acidic conditions with the reaction of iminodiacetic acid and the high nitrate/nitrite concentration present in the waste.