Establishing an alternative method for the quantitative analysis of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and polychlorinated dibenzofurans by comprehensive two dimensional gas chromatography-time-of-flight mass spectrometry for developing countries

Comprehensive Gas Chromatography-Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (GC x GC-TOFMS) methodology has been refined for the analysis of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs) and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) in samples with different matrices. This is specifically for application in developing countries where access to gas chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (GC-HRMS) and highly skilled personnel is limited. The method, using an Rxi-5 Sil MS column in the first dimension (D-1) coupled with an Rtx-200 column in the second dimension (D-2), was used to quantify PCDDs and PCDFs in different environmental sample matrices. The results were compared with those obtained using GC-HRMS and good agreement was observed. The limit of detection CLOD) for the method (300 fg on column for spiked soil samples) was determined using an Rxi-XLB (D-1) column coupled with an Rtx-200 column (D-2). Preliminary South African sample results are also discussed. Isomer specificity for different tetrachloro dibenzo-p-dioxins (TCDDs) and tetrachloro dibenzofurans (TCDFs) was investigated using a commercial standard. Adequate resolution was achieved. The method as described has great attraction for developing countries being both financially and operationally favourable. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.