Analytical head-space supercritical fluid extraction methodology for the determination of organochlorine compounds in aqueous matrix

The proposed head-space supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) methodology as an alternative to an existing conventional procedure was explored for the determination of organochlorine compounds in aqueous matrix. In this study, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) were utilized as target analytes. To enhance the recovery efficiency, the factors such as the CO2 density, the extraction time, and the extraction mode were investigated. Furthermore, the analytical procedures and the results obtained were compared with those provided by the conventional method (the U.S. EPA method 8080). Under the optimized conditions, i.e., a combination of static with dynamic SFE mode at 2,000 psi and 40 degrees C, the head-space SFE methodology gave equivalent or better to the conventional method in recovery efficiencies with clear advantages such as simple sample treatment and fast analysis time as well as reduced solvent and reagent consumption.