Matrix independent supercritical fluid extraction of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons by employing binary modifiers

A universal extraction method has been developed for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons using supercritical fluids. The method is nearly matrix-independent and therefore applicable to different kinds of matrices with only minor changes. New binary modifiers, containing small amounts (1%) of active additives in organic solvents have been used. In contrast to extractions with neat CO₂ or CO₂ modified with neat co-solvents, the use of binary modifiers has resulted in significantly higher extraction efficiencies for different kinds of matrices. The applicability of the new modifier-solutions has been shown for three different matrices, a fly ash, a sediment and a sewage sludge.Dedicated to Professor Dr. Dr. h.c. mult. J.F.K. Huber on the occasion of his 70th birthday