Improved Throughput and Reproducibility for PAH Analysis in Soil Using Automated Extraction

Abstract

Persistent organic pollutants (POPs), including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), pose ongoing risks to human health, making reliable environmental monitoring critical. Originating from both natural and human sources, PAHs accumulate in the environment, giving rise to the need for strict exposure and environmental limits. Effective monitoring of PAHs in solid matrices, such as soil, depends on robust and efficient sample preparation techniques as well as analysis. In this study, the EDGE® automated solvent extraction system was evaluated for the extraction of contaminated soil samples, including both a spiked soil and a certified reference material (CRM). The EDGE is a sequential extraction system that employs pressurized fluid extraction as well as dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE). Good recovery and reproducibly of the samples tested was achieved. Additionally, a comprehensive washing study was conducted to evaluate wash solvents and parameters to ensure minimal sample carryover. The results demonstrate the suitability of the EDGE system for accurate and reproducible PAH extraction from soil matrices.