Laser-excited synchronous fluorescence system for the analysis of polycyclic aromatic compounds

We describe a laser-based synchronous luminescence (LSL) monitor developed for the detection of polycyclic aromatic compounds (PAC). With LSL the amount of sample pre-treatment can often be reduced and both the selectivity and sensitivity of the analysis can be increased by the high power and narrow profile of a laser source. A small, portable, pulsed dye laser was used in this study. The instrument and its application to the determination of PACs will be described. For comparison purposes, measurements using conventional synchronous luminescence of mixtures are also discussed.