Fluorescence spectrophotometer analysis of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in environmental samples based on solid...

Area of Science:

• Environmental Chemistry
• Polymer Science
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are prevalent environmental pollutants.
• Accurate detection of PAHs in diverse matrices like sediments and effluents is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a selective molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) for PAH enrichment.
• To evaluate the MIP's performance in environmental sample analysis.

Main Methods:

• Synthesized MIP using a PAH template, methacrylic acid, and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate.
• Employed MIP as a solid-phase adsorbent for PAH preconcentration.
• Assessed adsorption capacity, stability, recovery, and detection limits.

Main Results:

• MIP demonstrated selective adsorption of PAHs from coastal sediments, atmospheric particulates, and industrial effluents.
• Adsorption capacity remained stable over 10 enrichment-desorption cycles.
• High recovery rates (85-96%) were achieved for spiked PAH compounds.
• Achieved sensitive detection limits (0.1-30 ng L⁻¹/kg⁻¹) comparable to advanced chromatographic methods.

Conclusions:

• The developed MIP is a stable and efficient adsorbent for PAH enrichment in environmental monitoring.
• This method offers a sensitive and cost-effective alternative to traditional PAH analysis techniques.