Leaching Environmental Assessment Framework (LEAF)
At Eurofins Environment Testing, we offer full support for the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Leaching Environmental Assessment Framework methods, helping clients evaluate the release of constituents of potential concern (COPCs) from solid materials. These tests support decisions related to disposal, treatment, remediation, and beneficial reuse.
Comprehensive leaching analysis for solid materials: our expertise
Since 2012, Eurofins Environment Testing has provided commercial support for all four EPA SW-846 LEAF methods:
Methods 1313, 1314, 1315, and 1316
These methods generate eluates (leached fluids) that can be analyzed for a wide range of analytes, including:
- Metals
- Wet chemistry
- Volatiles
- Semivolatiles, PAHs, OCPs, Dioxins/Furans, PCBs, PFAS, and more
Eurofins Environment Testing recognizes that the current LEAF Methods are written for inorganics. We have made method modification to address the issues potentially associated with organics and discuss these changes with the clients prior to the start of the project.
Why choose Eurofins Environment Testing?
Our industry-leading program is built on deep experience and technical leadership. We help clients:
- Identify project-specific analytical needs
- Select the right LEAF method(s)
- Tailor testing to reflect site-specific conditions
- Achieve accurate, reliable data
LEAF Methods Overview
Purpose
Determines how COPCs leach based on pH
Highlights
- Up to 9 parallel extractions (pH range: 2–13)
- Liquid-solid ratio: 10:1
Method 1314 – Percolation Column Test
Purpose
Measures leaching behavior over time under flow-through conditions
Highlights
- Up-flow column with reduced-size solids
- Flow rate: 0.5–1.0 LS/day
- Captures LSP (liquid-solid partitioning) as a function of LS ratio
Method 1315 – Mass Transfer Rate Test
Purpose
Assesses release rates from monolithic or compacted materials
Highlights
- Semi-dynamic tank leaching
- 9 mL eluant per cm² of surface area
- Ideal for diffusion-controlled systems
Method 1316 – Natural pH Batch Test
Purpose
Evaluates leaching at natural pH under near-equilibrium conditions
Highlights
- 5 parallel extractions
- LS ratios: 0.5 to 10 mL/g
- Contact time: 24–72 hours
Organic COPCs: Enhanced Method 1315
EPA LEAF methods primarily focus on inorganics. To support organic COPCs, we offer modified Method 1315 using:
- Polyethylene (PE) or
- Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) samplers
These proven modifications have been applied successfully in numerous projects.
Materials we test
We support LEAF testing on a wide variety of solid materials:
- Soils and sediments
- Stabilized and treated materials
- Brick, road bedding
- Fly ash, coal ash, and other industrial residues
Start your testing now
Contact us to discuss your project goals and learn how our testing solutions can support your data and regulatory needs.