Liquid Chromatographic Analysis of Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons with Diode Array Detection

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Abstract
The potential of using a high-sensitivity diode array detector for analysis of polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) is examined. Separation of 16 priority pollutant PAHs is accomplished in 13 minutes with a 5-um polymeric C18 column. Detection limits of about 1 ng are demonstrated for most PAHs. Wavelength programming enhances the detection specificity while spectral overlay confirms the presence of trace levels of PAHs in complex environmental samples. The sensitivity of this diode array detector is compared to that of a programmable fluorescence detector. The analysis of an urban particulate extract and a contaminated soil sample demonstrates the utility and versatility of this detection approach.