Use of fluorescence emission spectra for the routine identification of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in liquid chromatography

Fluorescence detection provides a highly sensitive and selective method of detection for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). However, the acquisition of fluorescence spectral data for purposes of peak identification has hitherto only been reported using techniques which interrupt chromatographic runs or rely on complex additional instrumentation. The application and limitations of acquiring fluorescence spectra using a commercially available detector during routine chromatography are discussed.