The QUASIMEME laboratory performance study of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs): assessment for the period 1996-1999. Quality Assurance of Information in Marine Environmental Monitoring in Europe

The results of the laboratory performance studies held during the period 1996-99 and involving the determination of PAHs in sediments and biota have been assessed. Overall 67% of the data submitted met the QUASIMEME criterion for satisfactory performance, although differences in performance were apparent between the two main analytical techniques employed: gas chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography. Further development of PAH methodology utilising coupled gas chromatography mass spectrometry is encouraged as the most appropriate means of meeting the future requirements for the determination of a wider range of PAH analytes. More reference materials are also urgently required for use in marine monitoring programmes, and they need to be certified for a wider range of PAHs than hitherto, including both parent PAHs and their alkylated derivatives.