Analysis of Petroleum Hydrocarbons (TPH)

Significance of the Topic

The analysis of total petroleum hydrocarbons TPH is a critical component of environmental monitoring and quality control. Aliphatic hydrocarbons from C8 to C40 represent a broad class of contaminants that impact soil and water quality.

Aims and Overview of the Method

This method establishes a reliable gas chromatographic approach with flame ionization detection for quantifying aliphatic hydrocarbons in environmental samples. The study aims to demonstrate baseline separation and accurate quantitation of compounds ranging from octane C8 to tetracontane C40.

Methodology and Instrumentation Used

• Instrument Shimadzu GC-2010 with FID detector at 350 C and injector at 275 C
• Column SH-I-1MS 20 m length 0.18 mm ID 0.18 um film thickness
• Carrier gas Hydrogen at a constant linear velocity of 55 cm s
• Oven program 40 C for 1 min ramp at 20 C min to 330 C and hold for 10 min
• Injection 0.5 uL split 1 20

Main Results and Discussion

The method achieved complete separation of aliphatic compounds from C8 to C40 with sharp symmetric peaks. Detection limits are in the low microgram per milliliter range. The linear response over the calibration range supports use in routine quantitation.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• High throughput analysis suitable for environmental monitoring laboratories
• Robust performance for soil and water sample analysis
• Compatibility with standard sample preparation protocols

Future Trends and Potential Developments

Advances in column technology and mass spectrometric detection may further improve sensitivity and selectivity. Automation and miniaturized GC systems can enable field deployable analysis. Emerging data processing tools will enhance rapid interpretation.

Conclusion

The described GC FID method provides a standardized approach for accurate TPH analysis. It offers reproducible separation and quantitation of a wide aliphatic range meeting demands of environmental and industrial laboratories.