Expediting Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Analysis with Optimal Selectivity and Dimensions

New Organic Monitoring Techniques
Poster Presentation

Prepared by R. Dhandapani
Phenomenex, 411 Madrid Ave, Torrance, California, 90501, United States


Contact Information: ramkumard@phenomenex.com; 310-294-2438


ABSTRACT

Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) are organic (highly hydrophobic) compounds that contain multiple aromatic rings (e.g. Naphthalene, Chrysene and Benzo[b]fluoranthene). PAHs often result from the incomplete combustion of organic substances such as wood, coal and oil and are found as contamination in air, water and soil. Furthermore, PAHs enter the food chain via deposition or transfer from air, water and soil or food processing. Amongst the PAHs are some of the most toxic compounds known. Including some that are carcinogenic, mutagenic, and teratogenic. In the United States, the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) has listed 16 priority PAHs. The European Union (EU) has regulated a series of PAHs found in food matrices. In the present study, two different GC column selectivities were explored for optimal separation, of various PAH compounds. Fast analysis options with multiple column dimensions were explored to expedite the analysis time.