Selective clean-up for polynuclear aromatic compounds in airborne particles and soil

Abstract

Urban air particulate matter, internal combustion engine particulate emissions, gas turbine particulate emissions and soil were analysed for polynuclear aromatic compounds. Polynuclear aromatic compounds were isolated by adsorption chromatography on XAD-2. Polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polynuclear aromatic ketones and nitro-PAHs were obtained together in the aromatic fraction, while interfering compounds were absent. Glass capillary gas chromatography with the stationary phases OV-1, SE-54, Dexsil 300 and OV-25 was performed, and benzo[ a]pyrene, 7- H-benzo[ de]anthracene-7-one and related compounds were identified. Differences between PAH profiles are discussed. It is concluded that cyclopenta[ cd]pyrene and benzo[ ghi]fluoranthene are rapidly decomposed in the atmosphere. 7- H-Benz[ de]anthracene-7-one and 6- H- benzo[ cd]pyrene-6-one are degraded during atmospheric exposure at a similar rate to benzo[ a]pyrene, and nitro-derivatives are not formed in substantial amounts.