Multi-residue Analysis for PAHs, PCBs and OCPs on Agilent J&W FactorFour VF-Xms

Importance of the topic

Multi-residue methods that combine the analysis of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in one run significantly streamline environmental monitoring workflows. By reducing run times and solvent consumption while maintaining sensitivity and selectivity, such approaches support rapid screening of persistent organic pollutants across diverse sample matrices.

Study objectives and overview

This study presents a GC/MS-based protocol utilizing an Agilent J&W FactorFour VF-Xms column to achieve simultaneous quantitation of 16 PAHs, 17 PCBs and 24 OCPs. Analyte concentrations were chosen to reflect typical environmental levels, with PAHs at tenfold higher concentration than PCBs and OCPs.

Methodology and instrumentation

Gas chromatography was performed on a 30 m × 0.25 mm VF-Xms column (0.25 µm film) with a multi-step temperature program (70 °C to 325 °C). A splitless injection (1 µL) and helium carrier gas (1 mL/min) were used. Detection employed quadrupole mass spectrometry in electron ionization (EI) mode with selected ion monitoring (SIM) to enhance specificity. Key SIM ions were monitored for each compound class to resolve isobaric interferences.

Main results and discussion

The optimized method separated all 57 target compounds within 21 minutes, demonstrating high peak resolution and low column bleed. Challenging isomeric pairs—benzo[b]fluoranthene/benzo[k]fluoranthene and indeno[1,2,3-cd]pyrene/dibenz[a,h]anthracene among PAHs, PCB 138/PCB 163 among PCBs, and cis/trans-heptachlor epoxide among OCPs—were resolved by employing characteristic SIM transitions and chromatographic selectivity of the VF-Xms phase.

Benefits and practical applications

By integrating multiple analyte classes in a single fast analysis, the method enhances laboratory throughput and reduces costs. It is particularly suitable for environmental laboratories performing routine monitoring of air, water, soil and biota samples for persistent organic pollutants.

Future trends and potential applications

Advancements may include coupling the VF-Xms column with high-resolution mass spectrometry for non-target screening, further reducing analysis time through rapid GC ramps, and integrating automated data processing for real-time decision making. Miniaturized sampling and field-deployable GC/MS systems could expand on‐site monitoring capabilities.

Conclusion

The described GC/MS protocol with a low-bleed VF-Xms column enables rapid, selective multi-residue analysis of PAHs, PCBs and OCPs. Its high efficiency and robustness make it a valuable tool for environmental analytics and regulatory compliance.

Reference

1. Anon. Report of the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives, 64th Meeting, Rome, Italy, 8–17 February 2005.
2. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. About PCBs.
3. University of Illinois Chicago School of Public Health, Great Lakes Center. PCB Fact Sheet.
4. Alaska Community Action on Toxics. Organochlorine Pesticide Fact Sheet.