Adaptation and validation of QuEChERS method for the simultaneous analysis of priority and emerging pollutants in sediments by gas chromatography—mass spectrometry

Abstract

ABSTRACTA Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged and Safe (QuEChERS) method has been adapted and validated for the simultaneous determination of priority (16 PAHs, 12 PCBs and 7 organochlorine pesticides (OCPs)) and emerging (carbamazepine, 9 musks and 6 sunscreens) pollutants in sediments by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The sample preparation was adapted by modifying the nature of the extraction solvent and optimising clean-up and evaporation steps. The method was validated by the analysis of spiked estuarine and marine sediments. Analytical performances were evaluated in terms of linearity, accuracy, precision and detection limits. The method shows good linearity (coefficients of determination > 0.998) and repeatability (RSD < 10%). Obtained recoveries are acceptable, ranging from 62% to 131% for all the compounds. Detection limits are estimated to range from 0.01 ng/g to 3.18 ng/g. This developed method offers the ability to detect and quantify several priority and emerging pollutants at low concentration levels in sediments.