Abstract
A quantitative procedure for the analysis of fifteen polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in environmental water samples is presented. The analytical technique utilizes a cyclohexane extraction of the PAHs, a cleanup and fractionation with alumina, high-pressure liquid chromatography, and ultraviolet (UV) detection. The analysis is capable of quantitating these PAHs in raw, finished, and distributed waters at concentrations of 1–3 ng/l. The PAHs were detected by three UV detectors in series operating at fixed wavelengths. Compounds were initially identified by retention times, and concentrations were determined by comparing the peak heights of samples to th PAH standards. Extraction efficiencies were then used to correct these results. Further confirmation of identity was afforded by fluorescence emission and excitation spectra. A detailed study of recoveries and stabilities of PAHs at low nanogram-per liter concentrations in water was conducted. The study revealed complete losses in chlorinated water, and selective losses in waters with no measurable chlorine residual. A sodium sulfate pellet spiked with perylene and benzo[ ghi]perylene is proposed to monitor sample integrity during shipment.
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