Matrix solid-phase dispersion extraction and gas chromatographic screening of polychlorinated biphenyls in fish

A matrix solid-phase extraction (MSPD) and gas chromatographic-electron-capture detection method for determining polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in fish (grass carp) is described. The method uses an octadecylsilyl-derivatized silica and acidic silica gel-based MSPD co-column for direct in-line clean-up. The performance of the method compares favourably with that of the traditional approach but the sample size, analysis time and overall cost are lower. The method may serve as a screening protocol for the isolation and determination of PCBs in fish.