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Fluorescence detection and identification of nitro derivatives of polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons by on-column catalytic reduction to aromatic amines

Journal Article · · Anal. Chem.; (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1021/ac00121a050· OSTI ID:5630669

Nitro derivatives of polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (nitro-PAH) at trace-level concentrations were efficiently reduced to primary aromatic amines on a catalyst column packed with 5-..mu..m alumina that was coated with platinum and rhodium (Pt/Rh). The reduction was accomplished in a reversed-phase HPLC system using methanol/water for the mobile phase. Reduction is classically catalytic; i.e., the Pt/Rh catalyst is not consumed. Fluorescence measurements permitted detection of some nitro-PAH as aromatic amines at low picogram levels. Excitation and emission wavelengths for fluorescence detection of 19 aromatic amines are given along with their fluorescence spectra. Some spectra exhibit unique features that are useful for confirming identification. An analytical system based on multidimensional HPLC principles was developed for routine analysis of specific nitro-PAH in complex organic matrices such as extracts of diesel exhaust particulates with minimal sample preparation.

Research Organization:
Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC
OSTI ID:
5630669
Journal Information:
Anal. Chem.; (United States), Journal Name: Anal. Chem.; (United States) Vol. 58:8; ISSN ANCHA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English