Analytical method for trace send-volatile organic compounds in the soil of Beijing suburbs

We developed a method for the determination of trace semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOC) in soil by ultrasonic extraction, column separation and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The conditions for separation of SVOC adsorbed by silica gel or Florisil columns were optimized. The average recovery was 82% similar to 105% for n-alkanes, 103% similar to 110% for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), 94% similar to 117% for organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and 86% similar to 114% for phthalate esters (PAEs). The limit of detection was 3 22, 3 similar to 42, 0.004 similar to 0.088 and 10 similar to 220 ng/g for n-alkanes, PAHs, OCPs and PAEs, respectively. The relative standard deviations (RSD) were all below 15%. The method was used for the analysis of SVOC in soil samples in the Beijing suburban areas. The results of quality control showed that the method allowed the reliable investigation.