Classification and quantification of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons on quartz sand particles by direct Fourier transform imaging fluorescence Original Research Article

A new method for analysis of PAH contamination deposited on quartz sand was developed. It is based on direct observation of the UV-induced fluorescence using a microscope and a specially designed imaging spectrometer which provides full fluorescence spectra at each pixel. The method is fast and requires no sample preparation. Linear calibration plots were obtained for monocomponent contaminations and for simple PAH mixtures. Absolute detection limits of a few pg are reported, which correspond to bulk concentrations in the μg g−1 range. In addition to concentrations, the method provides microscopic chemical images of the contaminants, which may provide useful source characterization.