Optimized sample cleanup for compound-specific isotope analysis of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in complex environmental samples

Abstract

Compound-specific isotope analysis (CSIA) using gas chromatography – isotope ratio mass spectrometry is a powerful tool to discriminate sources of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). However, interferences from co-eluting peaks often prevent accurate isotopic measurements in complex environmental samples. Purification of sample extracts is thus a crucial analytical step. In this study, we report a rapid and effective cleanup method using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) that provides high integrity isolation of PAHs suitable for CSIA. The method reported here was effective at purifying both parent and alkylated PAHs from several highly complex matrices, including river sediments, bitumen, petroleum coke, and wildfire ash. HPLC separation removed much of the interfering aromatic unresolved complex mixture (UCM) and significantly improved chromatography, yielding well-resolved PAH peaks with high intensities and signal-to-noise ratios. Recoveries and purities of target compounds following HPLC separation were 70 ± 13% and 97 ± 5%, respectively. No noticeable differences (± 0.5‰) were observed in the carbon isotope values (δ¹³C) of standards subjected to extraction and HPLC purification steps, indicating negligible isotopic fractionation associated with the protocol. The δ¹³C values for individual PAHs in samples were comparable to those previously reported for the same sample types, further demonstrating this method’s high level of accuracy and precision. Additionally, this technique allows for isotopic characterisation of a larger number of 4- to 5-ring PAHs compared to many previous studies due to removal of much of the later-eluting UCM, potentially providing greater insight into source discrimination and understanding of PAH deposition and transformation processes. While the focus of this investigation was on PAHs, this technique could be adapted to other problematic compounds targeted for CSIA.