PAH
PAH is an abbreviation of Polyaromatic Hydrocarbons which are sometimes known as PNA’s (Polynuclear Aromatics). There is a list of 16 PAHs which are of particular interest (USEPA PAHs):
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Naphthalene -
Acenaphthylene
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Acenaphthene
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Fluorene
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Phenanthrene
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Anthracene
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Fluoranthene
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Pyrene
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Benzo (a) anthracene
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Chrysene
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Benzo (b) fluoranthene
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Benzo (k) fluoranthene
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Benzo (a) pyrene
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Dibenzo (a,h) anthracene
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Benzo (g, h, i) perylene
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Indeno (1,2,3-cd) pyrene
80% of PAH contribution can be attributed to these 16 compounds
PAHs enter the environment from fossil fuel burning, the combustion of organic matter and from production processes. Sources of PAHs include petroleum refining, power plants using fossil fuels, aluminium, iron and steel production.
Some PAHs are thought to be carcinogenic.
PAHs are analysed by NCA using the latest state of the art Shimadzu GC-MS.