Gas Chromatography/Matrix Isolation-Infrared Spectrometry for the Identification of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Urban Air Particulate Matter

Abstract

The capabilities of gas chromatography/matrix isolation-infrared (GC/MI-IR) spectrometry for detecting and identifying polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in urban air particulate matter are demonstrated. The ability of GC/MI-IR to discriminate between PAH isomers that are difficult to distinguish by conventional electron-impact ionization gas chromatography/mass spectrometry is shown. The MI-IR spectra of PAHs obtained under GC/MI-IR conditions are comparable to those reported in the literature that were obtained by using slow-spray-on matrix deposition techniques.