Rapid analysis of 17 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons with UV- and FL-detection according to DIN EN 17993:2002

Importance of the Topic

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are ubiquitous, toxic and persistent environmental pollutants that require sensitive and rapid analytical monitoring. Traditional HPLC methods exceed 30 min per run, motivating the development of faster UHPLC approaches.

Objectives and Study Overview

This study presents a rapid gradient UHPLC method based on EN ISO 17993:2002 for simultaneous determination of 17 PAHs in less than 10 min, targeting baseline separation and detection limits below regulatory thresholds.

Methodology

Stock solutions of 17 PAHs at 1 mg/L were prepared in acetonitrile and diluted to calibration ranges of 1–10 µg/L and 10–100 µg/L. An EN ISO 17993 synthetic blank was generated. Separation was achieved on a 150 × 2 mm BlueOrchid PAH column using a MeOH/H₂O and acetonitrile gradient at 0.6 mL/min and 25 °C. Fluorescence detection with time‐programmed excitation/emission wavelengths complemented UV-PDA detection for non‐fluorescent analytes. Calibration and limits were evaluated per EN ISO 17993, DIN 38402 and DIN 32645.

Used Instrumentation

• KNAUER PLATINblue UHPLC system with dual pump, autosampler AS-1, column thermostat T-1, PDA-1 and FLD
• BlueOrchid PAH column, 150 × 2 mm

Main Results and Discussion

Baseline separation of all 17 PAHs was achieved within 10 min. Fluorescence detection yielded LODs <1 µg/L for 15 analytes, while UV-PDA detection provided LODs <10 µg/L for acenaphthylene and benzo(j)fluoranthene. Calibration curves exhibited r² >0.999 and determination limits met or exceeded method requirements.

Benefits and Practical Applications of the Method

The protocol reduces analysis time from over 30 min to under 15 min per run, offering high selectivity and sensitivity for environmental monitoring of PAHs. The approach is adaptable to additional analytes and various sample matrices.

Future Trends and Applications

Further acceleration of methods is possible by optimizing resolution requirements. The technique can be extended to broader pollutant panels and integrated into field deployable UHPLC systems, supporting real‐time environmental assessments.

Conclusion

The developed UHPLC method delivers fast, sensitive and reliable measurement of 17 PAHs in environmental samples, aligning with EN ISO 17993 standards and enhancing throughput for routine monitoring.

References

1. M.N. Kayali‐Sayadi; S. Rubio‐Barroso; C.A. Díaz‐Díaz; L.M. Polo‐Díez; Fresenius Journal of Analytical Chemistry, 368(7):697–701 (2000)
2. T. Wenzl; R. Simon; E. Anklam; J. Kleiner; Trends in Analytical Chemistry, 25(7):716–725 (2006)
3. AOAC 973.30; DIN TVO; US EPA Methods TO-13, 550.1, 610, 8310, 8330