Magnetic Nanoparticles Used for PAH Detection in Water and Fish Samples

In a recent study published in the Journal of Chromatography A, researchers from the Institute of Agricultural Quality Standards and Testing Technology Research presented a method capable of extracting and analyzing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) from water and fish samples (1). The technique introduces naphthalene-modified magnetic nanoparticles (Fe₃O₄@Nap) that improve the precision, sensitivity, and simplicity of the extraction process (1).

Underwater view with school fish in ocean. Sea life in transparent water | Image Credit: © artifirsov - stock.adobe.com

For this study, a new one-step surface modification protocol was deployed. Naphthalene-6-phosphate was directly immobilized onto the Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles, harnessing the specific chelation interaction between phosphate groups and metal ions on the Fe₃O₄ surface. The authors used this approach to yield nanoparticles with hydrophobicity and π-π conjugative effects (1). As a result, the nanoparticles were highly effective in capturing PAHs.

The Fe₃O₄@Nap-based displayed strong magnetic responsiveness of Fe₃O₄, allowing rapid separation from the sample solution (1). Additionally, Fe₃O₄@Nap nanoparticles exhibitedselectivity and sensitivity, essential for accurate analysis.

Under the optimized conditions, the Fe₃O₄@Nap-based MSPE/gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (MSPE/GC–MS/MS) method displayed linearity, precision, and accuracy for both water and fish samples. It was also an inexpensive alternative to traditional solid-phase extraction (SPE) materials because of the cost of the raw materials for the Fe₃O₄@Nap nanoparticles (1). This new method allows for large-scale production, making it more applicable to an industry setting.

Compared to other reported techniques, the Fe₃O₄@Nap-based also approach reduced the time required for sample preparation, making it an attractive option for PAH detection in environmental water and fish samples (1).

The Fe₃O₄@Nap-based MSPE/GC–MS/MS method offers a high-efficiency solution that combines sensitivity, specificity, and reusability (1). Themethod offers an alternative, yet effective solution that can help scientists and government agencies safeguard the environment and improve public health.

Reference

(1) Peng, X.; Liu, L.; Hu, X.; Yan, W.; Zheng, D.; Xia, Z.; Yu, Q.; Zhou, Y.; Xia, H.; Peng, L. Facile fabrication of naphthalene-functionalized magnetic nanoparticles for efficient extraction of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons from environmental water and fish samples. J. Chromatogr. A. 2023, 1706, 464229. DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2023.464229