A reliable method of analyzing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in soil

[mingfang]

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) belong to a broad family of synthetic organic chemicals that vary in toxicity and consistency. Because of their chemical stability, high boiling point, non-flammable quality, and insulating properties, PCBs do not readily break down once in the environment – posing a threat to many living organisms. 

Techniques such as Soxhlet, sonication, and microwave extraction are commonly used methods for detecting and extracting PCBs in soil samples. Unfortunately, these methods are labor intensive, time-consuming, involve multiple instruments, and result in significant soil consumption.  

In a recently released application note, experts present a new, fully automated parallel extraction and evaporation method for faster and more reliable analysis of PCBs in soil compounds, using the Thermo Scientific™ EXTREVA™ ASE™ Accelerated Solvent Extractor. 

The challenge of determining PCBs in soil: With the persistence of PCBs in soil samples around the world, labs are facing challenges to complete reliable analysis using traditional techniques. Soxhlet, sonication, and microwave extraction methods are labor intensive, take a great amount of time, and result in high solvent consumption.  

A better method: The Thermo Scientific EXTREVA ASE system is a fully automated analysis technology that combines extraction and evaporation capabilities in one instrument. This soil analysis solution reduces time, energy, and solvent usage compared to conventional sample extraction techniques.  

Results and information:  In this application note, the EXTREVA ASE was used in a new method for determining and analyzing 17 PCBs in soil samples. Additional information: 

• The EXTREVA ASE system uses up to six different extraction solvents (or mixtures of them) and extracts up to four cells in parallel. 
• The EXTREVA ASE system efficiently and conveniently extracts and evaporates in one seamless operation, without any user interaction.  

 

Want to learn more? 

Read the application note Identification of plastic additives in pharmaceutical packaging using a fully automated parallel ext... 

Take a deeper dive and see the new features of the EXTREVA ASE accelerated solvent extractor here.