Rapid Screening Method for PAH Samples

Importance of the Topic

Polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are persistent organic pollutants with carcinogenic and mutagenic properties. Regulatory bodies such as the USEPA require reliable screening methods for PAHs in environmental and industrial samples. Rapid, high-throughput analysis of PAHs is essential for laboratories aiming to meet strict detection limits and resolution criteria while maximizing productivity.

Goals and Study Overview

This work aimed to develop the fastest screening method for 17 commonly regulated PAH isomers using a conventional gas chromatograph. The study focused on achieving USEPA resolution standards in the shortest runtime, maintaining sensitivity, and demonstrating easy transfer to GC–MS systems for more detailed compound identification.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The analysis was performed on an Agilent HP 6890 GC system with flame ionization detection (FID) and a split/splitless injector. Key parameters included:

• Column: Phenomenex Zebron™ ZB-5ms, 10 m × 0.10 mm × 0.10 µm
• Carrier gas: UHP helium at 0.60 mL/min (constant flow)
• Oven program: 100 °C initial, ramp to 200 °C at 33 °C/min, then to 320 °C at 25 °C/min
• Injector temperature: 320 °C, 1 µL injection, 20:1 split ratio
• Detector temperature: 330 °C

The column’s Arylene Matrix Technology™ enabled efficient mass transfer and minimal bleed up to 320 °C. The method can be seamlessly adapted to GC–MS platforms using a Zebron ZB-5ms phase certified for mass spectrometry.

Key Results and Discussion

All 17 PAH isomers were baseline resolved in under eight minutes, meeting USEPA method 610/8100 resolution requirements. The thin-film, narrow-bore column delivered low detection limits and high peak responses. Critical isomer pairs such as benzo[b]fluoranthene/benzo[k]fluoranthene and late-eluting benzo[g,h,i]perylene were effectively separated, demonstrating the column’s resolving power even under rapid temperature programming.

Benefits and Practical Applications

This rapid screening method offers laboratories significant improvements in sample throughput—up to 180 samples in 24 hours—without purchasing new hardware. The approach preserves analytical quality while reducing per-sample runtime, making it valuable for environmental monitoring, industrial discharge testing, and solid waste analysis in QA/QC settings.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Advances in column technology and faster GC temperature programming will further shorten analysis times. Coupling rapid GC methods with tandem mass spectrometry could enhance selectivity for trace-level PAHs in complex matrices. Automation and multiplexed GC platforms represent additional avenues to boost laboratory productivity.

Conclusion

The described method achieves the fastest known conventional GC screening of 17 PAH isomers, combining rapid temperature programming with a high-efficiency ZB-5ms column. It meets regulatory requirements, maintains sensitivity, and offers a cost-effective productivity gain for routine PAH analysis.

References

Sky Countryman, Kory Kelly; Rapid Screening Method for PAH Samples. Phenomenex Inc., Application Note TN-2027.