Environmental applications of mass spectrometry

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Analytical Chemistry
• Spectrometry

Background:

• Organic and spark source mass spectrometry are key techniques for analyzing environmental samples.
• Understanding pollutant profiles is crucial for environmental monitoring and risk assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compile and review publications from 1975 focusing on identified pollutants in environmental samples using mass spectrometry.
• To emphasize the pollutants identified rather than the analytical methodologies employed.

Main Methods:

• Compilation of 272 publications from 1975.
• Inclusion criteria focused on studies reporting identified pollutants in environmental samples.
• Exclusion of studies on forensic samples, synthetic standards, and drug residues.

Main Results:

• A wide range of studies were identified, from those identifying numerous pollutants to those analyzing single pollutants in specific samples.
• The review highlights the application of organic and spark source mass spectrometry in identifying diverse environmental contaminants.
• Data from 272 relevant publications were synthesized.

Conclusions:

• Mass spectrometry techniques were widely applied in 1975 for environmental pollutant analysis.
• The identified pollutants provide a snapshot of environmental contamination issues during that period.
• This compilation serves as a valuable resource for understanding historical environmental analytical chemistry efforts.