Quantitative analysis of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons using high‐performance liquid chromatography‐photodiode array‐high‐resolution mass spectrometric detection platform coupled to electrospray and atmospheric pressure photoionization sources By Anusha Priyadarshani Silva Hettiyadura and Alexander Laskin

Abstract

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are organic environmental pollutants of primary concern because of their strong toxicological effects. They decrease immune function and can be linked to many health disorders. PAHs are mainly emitted during incomplete combustion of fossil fuel and biomass. Once they are emitted to the atmosphere, they are transported long distances by air plumes and then removed by wet and dry deposition. While airborne, they undergo atmospheric photo degradation and various oxidation reactions. The major pathway of human exposure to PAHs is through inhalation of polluted air and the health effects of the individual PAHs depend on the length and route of the exposure, relative toxicity, and the concentration levels of exposure. In this tutorial special feature, Alexander Laskin and co-workers present a methodical framework for quantitative analysis of multicomponent PAH mixtures using HPLC-PDA-HRMS, including molecular identification, quantitation and light absorbing properties of individual components. Alexander Laskin is Professor of Chemistry at Purdue University. His research interests are centered on the analytical and physical chemistry of atmospheric aerosols.