Evaluation of a new solid-phase cartridge for the preconcentration of phenolic compounds in water

The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficiency of a new solid-phase extraction cartridge, Spe-ed Advanta, in the extraction and preconcentration of four phenolic compounds (phenol, 2-chlorophenol, 2-nitrophenol, and 2,4-dichlorophenol) from water. The solid phase is a polystyrene-divinylbenzene resin modified with carboxylic groups, these polar groups improve the contact between the matrix and the aqueous solutions in the extraction of polar analytes. We studied several elution solvents in order to find the most efficient one. Sample concentration, sample volume, and sample pH are also investigated as well as the best method for drying the cartridge. Recoveries achieved with the new phase are compared with those obtained with Isolute ENV+, a non-modified polystyrene-divinylbenzene stationary bed. The best experimental conditions were then used for determination of the phenols in spiked environmental waters.