Analysis by GC-MS of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in a Cream Containing Coal Tar

Abstract

Qualitative and quantitative PAHs composition of a cream containing coal tar (5%), used in cutaneous diseases treatment, was studied. Eleven PAHs were analysed in pure coal tar and in the cream by GC-MS, after ultrasonic extraction by pyridine. Ten PAHs were found in pure coal tar: naphthalene, biphenyl, acenaphthylene, fluorene, phenanthrene, anthracene, carbazole, fluoranthene, pyrene and benzo[a]pyrene. No traces of 2,3-benzofluorene were detected. Seven PAHs were identified in the cream: naphthalene, biphenyl, acenaphthylene, fluorene, phenanthrene, fluoranthene and pyrene. 2,3-benzofluorene was also absent in the cream. Anthracene, carbazole and benzo[a]pyrene (one of the most toxic) were present in coal tar and not detected in the cream.

The seven PAHs found in the cream and in coal tar were quantified. Hydrocarbons concentrations were between 0.107 ± 0.0038 mg.g⁻¹ (for biphenyl) and 0.734 ± 0.0438 mg.g⁻¹ (for phenanthrene) in the cream and between 4.31 ± 0.23 mg.g⁻¹ (for biphenyl) and 21.9 ± 0.57 mg.g⁻¹ (for fluorene) in coal tar.

Key Words:

• PAHs
• GC-MS
• coal tar cream