Application of laser-based ion mobility (IM) spectrometry for the analysis of polycyclic aromatic compounds (PAC) and petroleum products in soils

Abstract

The capability of laser-based IM spectrometry to detect PAC and petroleum products (oils) in model matrices, laboratory reference (LR) materials and in real-world contaminated soil samples was demonstrated. Quantitative IM investigations of PAC-doped PVC films yielded detection limits in the ppm range for single PAC. The calibration of IM signals obtained from oil-doped LR materials was also possible, and detection of oils with concentrations below 100 mg kg⁻¹ was achieved. The in situ analysis of real-world contaminated soils with the IM and LIF techniques was in good accordance with ex situ reference investigations.