A novel atmospheric pressure photoionization – Mass spectrometry (APPI-MS) method for the detection of polychlorinated dibenzo P- dioxins and dibenzofuran homologues in real environmental samples collected within the vicinity of industrial incinerators

• Published in: International journal of mass spectrometry 2017-10, Vol.421, p.135-143
• Main Authors: McCulloch, R., Alvaro, A., Astudillo, A.M., del Castillo, J.C., Gómez, M., Martín, J.M., Amo-González, M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: APPI; Differential Mobility Analyzer (DMA); Dioxins; Environmental toxins; Field-free atmospheric pressure photoionization; Furans; Rapid screening
• ISSN: 1387-3806; 1873-2798
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijms.2017.05.016

Fullscan spectrum obtained for the infusion of a 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-Heptachlorodibenzodioxin standard obtained using a novel, low flow field-free APPI-MS method. [Display omitted] •The new technology described (field-free APPI-MS) has been shown to be suitable for the detection of trace environmental toxins.•This novel technology offers improved sensitivity, high throughput and reduced sample preparation requirements.•APPI is the most effective atmospheric pressure ion source for the analysis of highly non-polar compounds, utilizing the charge exchange mechanism. This is particularly effective for compounds like PAHs, etc.•The low-flow APPI-MS method was found to be relatively insensitive to matrix effects, lending it suitably to the analysis of environmental analytes within complex matrices. Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs) and dibenzofurans (PCDFs) were monitored in air, soil and vegetation (biota) samples within the vicinity of a solid waste incineration facility located in central Spain. Measurements were made monthly for a one year period. The analyses were carried out using a novel, low flow atmospheric pressure photoionization – mass spectrometry (APPI-MS) method. This technique delivers unique advantages in terms of sensitivity, cost and throughput, with detection limits approaching 1 picogram and an analysis time of 2min. Memory effects were considerable on this first prototype, limiting a final throughput of 4 samples per hour. PCDD and PCDF homologue patterns were observed for each of the air, soil and vegetation samples, and the results obtained were consistent with other studies related to the analysis of incinerator emissions.