Application of matrix solid-phase dispersion in the analysis of priority polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in fish samples

The performance of matrix solid-phase dispersion (MSPD) for the extraction of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in fish tissue is described. The suitability of different solid supports was tested as well as the influence on the extraction efficiency of the natural fat content in samples. Under optimal conditions 0.6–0.8 g of tissue sample, are dispersed with 2 g of octadecylsiloxane (C18) and 0.5 g of anhydrous sodium sulphate and transferred to the top of a polyethylene solid-phase extraction cartridge which already contains 2 g of florisil and 1 g of C18. Cartridges were eluted with acetonitrile. The analysis of the extracts was carried out by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled with fluorescence detection. The proposed method provides detection limits between 0.04 and 0.32 ng/g for the different considered PAHs, below the maximum levels established by the some regulatory bodies for the six PAHs after recent oil spill episodes and European Union regulations. Recoveries over 80% were obtained for all compounds. Accuracy validation was carried out using the US National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) SRM 2977 reference material.