Analysis of polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons by SPME-GC-FID in environmental and tap waters

Abstract

A procedure based on solid phase microextraction (SPME) and gas chromatography with flame ionization detection (GC-FID) was developed and validated in order to determine the sixteen US EPA PAH (polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons) compounds in water samples. The best analytical conditions were obtained using PDMS 30 μm fibre by direct immersion at 60°C, 30 min, 1500 rpm and 10% NaCl. The method showed good linearity (R2 > 0.99), repeatability (< 10%) and recovery (> 71%). The detection limits were between 0.06 and 0.50 μg L-1. Other studies were also carried out, such as stability studies, repeated analysis on the same sample, intermediate precision and the influence of chlorine concentration in the recovery of the PAHs. This method was applied to several matrices, including tap water and real environmental samples (surface and underground water and rainwater). © 2008 Sociedade Brasileira de Química.