Photochemical sample treatment for extracts clean up in PCB analysis from sediments

Abstract

Sample purification can be considered the most polluting step of the whole analytical process for PCBs determination in sediment samples. The use of photochemical sample treatment represents an alternative methodology for extracts clean up allowing for a reduction of the used amount of organic solvents. The first application of a photochemical sample treatment for the selective removal or reduction of organic substances interfering with PCBs analyses in sediments is reported. The method's efficiency and robustness were compared with currently used chromatographic purification. Quality parameters such as recovery, linearity and reproducibility were studied. The entire procedure was validated by four replicate analysis of certified reference sediment. The quantification limits (LOQ) obtained by us ranged from 1 to 3.1 ng g(-1). The RSD for each congener was below 15% and recoveries were in the range 40-130%. Results based on the analysis of real and certified samples showed similar or improved detection thresholds and pointed out the advantages of the photochemical methodology in terms of costs and environmental friendly conditions.

Determination of selected phthalates by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry in mural paintings from Palermo (Italy)

“…Moreover DEHP is a recognized testicular toxicant, altering the normal functions of Sertoli and Leydig cells by affecting spermatogenesis and testosterone production in rats [5], in fact, phthalates are classified in the EU as category 2 substances to reproduction and as 1B in the Globally Harmonized System of Classification System and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). Other studies [38] argue that high doses of DEHP induced liver and kidney damage, testicular toxicity, and endocrine disorders in androgen production. In humans, the reported health effects of DEHP are altered semen quality, reproductive and developmental effects, and endocrine disruption, which have recently caused much public concern [39].…”

“…Quantification limit (LOQ), (less than 1 μg/Kg for all compounds) was estimated as 10 σ (ten times the background noise) (IUPAC criterion). LOD and LOQ were estimated in single ion monitoring (SIM) mode [2,33,34,36,38]. Blank concentrations were not subtracted from sample concentrations because the levels in samples were higher than blank levels by several orders of magnitude.…”

Photodegradation of selected phthalates on mural painting surfaces under UV light irradiation

“…In the last years, scientific community has focused his interest in processes that may be applied to degrade hazardous substances [20], minimizing the risk for worker exposures. Given that UV-irradiation at Microchemical Journal 114 (2014) 192-196 254 nm is used for wastewater and soil treatments, it is of interest to know whether this process can also be employed for phthalate degradation onto mural painting surfaces because construction work is one of the most important activities in Europe, and probably worldwide, with respect to its economic, technological, and environmental impact.…”

Neutral solar photo-Fenton degradation of 4-nitrophenol on iron-enriched hybrid montmorillonite-alginate beads (Fe-MABs)

“…For this reason the research community is focused about the development of processes for pollutants removal and degradation by harmless and inexpensive techniques [9]. In the last few decades, also photochemical methodologies have been applied to pollutants degradation in air and aqueous matrices [10,11] as well as for the refinement of analytical procedures [12].…”