Isomer-specific detection of PAHs and PAH metabolites in environmental matrices by Shpol'skii luminescence spectroscopy.

Shpol'skii Spectroscopy, a high-resolution low temperature molecular luminescence technique, was applied to the analysis of various complex environmental matrices to obtain isomer specific information on a wide range of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and their derivatives. Using conventional lamp excitation and fluorescence and phosphorescence detection, parent priority PAHs, six-membered ring compounds (e, g. potent carcinogens, dibenzopyrenes), and methyl-substituted PAHs were determined in crude and purified lubricating oil sample, extracts of sediment, and muscle from finfish. In addition, detection of major PAH metabolites (hydroxy-substituted PAHs) in gall bladder of fish is demonstrated by applying conventional lamp and Laser Excited Shpol'skii Spectroscopy (LESS)