Solid-phase extraction of polycyclic aromatic compounds

Solid-phase extraction (SPE) for two groups of polyaromatic compounds — polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and naphthalenesulfonates — with completely different problems in the extraction process are reviewed. The sorbents used in each case and the different steps of SPE are studied. Particular problems encountered in the SPE of each group are described. Adsorption problems of PAHs which require an organic solvent or a surfactant to be added to the sample are explained. The need of ion-pair solid-phase extraction for extracting naphthalenesulfonates and the influence of the inorganic species in the extraction are discussed. The on-line systems are described for both group of compounds.