scope:

NEN-ISO 13859 specifies the quantitative determination of 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) (see Table 2) in sludge, soil and treated biowaste using GC/MS and HPLC-UV-DAD/FLD covering a wide range of PAH contamination levels (see also Annex B). When using fluorescence detection acenaphthylene cannot be measured. The limit of detection depends on the determinants, the equipment used, the quality of chemicals used for the extraction of the sample and the clean-up of the extract. Typically, a lower limit of application of 0,01 mg/kg (expressed as dry matter) may be ensured for each individual PAH. This depends on instrument and sample. Sludge, soil and treated biowaste may differ in properties and also in the expected contamination levels of PAHs and presence of interfering substances. These differences make it impossible to describe one general procedure. This International Standard contains decision tables based on the properties of the sample and the extraction and clean-up procedure to be used. Two general lines are followed, an agitation procedure (shaking) or use of Soxhlet/pressurised liquid extraction.