Rapid Screening Method for Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons Using an Advanced Solid Core UHPLC Column and System Combination

Importance of Topic

The rapid and reliable detection of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) is critical due to their widespread occurrence as priority pollutants and their recognized carcinogenic, mutagenic, and teratogenic effects. Efficient screening methods support environmental monitoring, regulatory compliance, and risk assessment in soil, sediment, and industrial processes.

Objectives and Overview

This study aimed to develop and demonstrate a fast UHPLC screening method for the 16 PAHs specified in US EPA Method 610. By leveraging an advanced solid core 1.5 µm Accucore Vanquish C18+ column in combination with the high-pressure Vanquish UHPLC system, the work showcases how elevated flow rates and optimized system design enable rapid separations without sacrificing chromatographic performance.

Methodology and Instrumentation

An Accucore Vanquish C18+, 1.5 µm, 100 × 2.1 mm column was operated on a Thermo Scientific Vanquish UHPLC system at 1500 bar maximum pressure. A binary gradient of methanol/water (50:50) and acetonitrile was run at 500 µL/min, with a column temperature of 40 °C and UV detection at 254 nm. Sample injection was 2 µL. Instrumentation included:

• Vanquish system base, binary pump, split sampler, column compartment, diode-array detector
• Chromeleon 7.2 SR2 software for data acquisition
• Thermo Scientific Virtuoso vial identification and labeling

Main Results and Discussion

All 16 target PAHs were separated within a 7.5-minute detection window, achieving a total cycle time of 10 minutes. Baseline resolution was obtained for most analyte pairs; critical pairs such as chrysene/benzo[a]anthracene and indeno[1,2,3-cd]pyrene/benzo[g,h,i]perylene were partially resolved but provided adequate separation for screening purposes. Retention times showed excellent repeatability (RSD ≤ 0.18%).

Benefits and Practical Applications

The combination of solid core particle technology and a low-dispersion UHPLC system allows for rapid throughput, reduced solvent usage, and high efficiency. This method supports environmental laboratories, QA/QC workflows, and industrial analytics where fast, reliable PAH screening is required.

Future Trends and Potential Uses

Advancements may include coupling with mass spectrometry for confirmatory analysis, further miniaturization for field deployable units, and expansion to other priority pollutant classes. Integration with automated sample preparation and data processing will enhance throughput and reproducibility.

Conclusion

The Accucore Vanquish C18+ column combined with the Vanquish UHPLC system delivers a robust, high-speed screening method for EPA 610 PAHs. Operating at high pressure and flow rates, it achieves sub-10 minute cycle times while maintaining acceptable separation and repeatability for routine environmental monitoring.

Reference

US Environmental Protection Agency Method 610 for Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons