Validation of Analytical Methodology for Determining Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Fine Particulate Matter Emitted by Diesel Engines

Abstract

Studies on determining toxic pollutants in particulate matter emitted by diesel engines are crucial for developing strategies to mitigate atmospheric pollution. However, the low levels of analytes and the complexity of the matrix pose significant challenges from an analytical chemistry perspective. This work aimed to evaluate the analytical parameters of a procedure for determining polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in delicate particulate matter emitted by diesel engines. The validation parameters indicated good linearity, with coefficients of determination (R²) ranging from 0.9959 to 0.9995. The limits of detection and quantification were between 0.24 to 0.60 ng/mL and 0.78 to 2.0 ng/mL, respectively. Recoveries ranged from 66.1% to 121%, with relative standard deviations (RSD%) of less than 20%. Applying this method to determine PAHs in PM1.0 and PM2.5 samples revealed high levels of these compounds in S10 diesel samples.