Further, solid matrices that are not amenable to the use of a coring technique should be collected in such a way as to preserve their integrity. Transferring of these solids with spatulas or similar devices into sampling containers is discouraged as this disrupts the sample pore spaces and greatly increases the sample surface area available for volatilization. For soil piles, fresh (unexposed), soil at an adequate depth (representative of concentrations from the interior of the pile) should be sampled. Gravel or concrete samples may need to be manually transferred into VOC sampling containers quickly and in a condition and.
