New Options for Solvent Extraction of Polychlorinated Biphenyls from Environmental Matrices

Automation & Innovation for Sample Preparation
Poster Presentation

Prepared by A. Stell, B. Liu, M. Kaizoji
CEM Corporation, 3100 Smith Farm Rd., Matthews, NC, 28106, United States


Contact Information: [email protected]; 704-821-7015

ABSTRACT

Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) are man-made compounds that were formerly used in a variety of products. Even though the use of PCBs is now banned due to their toxicity, they can still be found in the environment. PCBs are regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and recently there was a rule change that allows for EPA methods 3545A Pressurized Fluid Extraction and 3546 Microwave Extraction to be used for the extraction of PCBs from a variety of environmental matrices. In this study, the EDGE® automated solvent extraction system as well as the MARS 6TM microwave extraction system, are shown to effectively extract PCBs from soil with exceptional percent recoveries and reproducibility. These systems give labs the flexibility to use extraction methods that are rapid, simple and efficient. They not only reduce time of extraction but also reduce solvent usage as well, making them great options for any laboratory doing PCB analysis.