Enrichment of the PAH is performed using solid phase extraction. The extract is obtained from the sample through separation with high performance liquid chromatography on the appropriate stationary phases under isocratic conditions. Detection is conducted with a fluorescence detector. The determination is quite sensitive because these polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons possess substantial fluorescence properties. Since the fluorescence characteristics of these substances are substance-specific, they are determined using two spectra, the excitation and emission spectra. Thus, selective detection is possible. Through recognition of the specific spectra for each substance and the means of detection at the appropriate wavelengths, maximum sensitivity and selectivity are attainable.
The PAH compounds are concentrated through extraction with cyclohexane and evaporation. The separation is carried out by means of high-performance thin-layer chromatography. The results are evaluated through examination under UV light, followed by comparison of the Rf values with the reference substances.