Enhancement of oil forensic methodology through the addition of polycyclic aromatic nitrogen heterocycle biomarkers for diagnostic ratios.

ABSTRACT: Current oil spill forensic identification of source oils relies upon hydrocarbon biomarkers resistant to weathering. This international technique was developed by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN), under EN 15522-2 Oil Spill Identification guidelines. The number of biomarkers have expanded at pace with technological advances, while distinguishing new biomarkers becomes more challenging due to interference of isobaric compounds, matrix effects, and high cost of weathering experiments. Application of high-resolution mass spectrometry enabled exploration of potential polycyclic aromatic nitrogen heterocycle (PANH) oil biomarkers. The instrumentation showed reduction in isobaric and matrix interferences, allowing for identification of low-level PANH and alkylated PANHs (APANHs).

SUBMITTER: McCallum P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9941221 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature