Analytical Procedures for PAH and PCB Determination in Water Samples—Error Sources

Today, special attention is paid in environmental analysis to sample preparation methods. Isolation and/or preconcentration of analytes from water samples characterized by complex composition of the matrices constitutes an essential step of analytical procedures used for determination of trace organic components. Collection, transport and storage of water samples are also important. This review paper systematizes available information connected with the occurrence and the analysis of PAHs and PCBs in natural waters. Special attention is paid to point out error sources, which can appear in every step of the analytical procedures.

Keywords:

• water analysis
• PAHs
• PCBs
• techniques of extraction

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The Department of Analytical Chemistry constitutes “Centre of Excellence in Environmental Analysis and Monitoring,” which is a research project supported by the European Commission under the Fifth Framework Programme and contributing to the implementation of the Key Action “Sustainable Management and Quality of Water” within the Energy, Environment and Sustainable Development (Contract No.: EVK1-CT-2002-80010). The authors acknowledge this generous support.