Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAH) Analysis Services
Oxigen Analysis Laboratories is specialized in analyzing Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs), which represent a critical environmental and food safety threat. PAH compounds are strictly audited under national and international standards due to their potential carcinogenic effects.
What is PAH?
PAH covers a group of approximately 500 chemical compounds containing two or more fused benzene rings. These compounds are commonly found as environmental pollutants:
- Low Volatility: Classified as semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs).
- Low Water Solubility: Tend to bind strongly to organic matter.
- Lipophilic Solubility: Cause bioaccumulation in living organisms.
Carcinogenic Potential
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies certain PAH compounds as probable or possible human carcinogens. Compounds such as Benzo(a)pyrene are classified directly as human carcinogens.
Common PAH Compounds Tested:
- Benzo(a)pyrene, Benzo(b)fluoranthene, Benzo(k)fluoranthene, Indeno(1,2,3-c,d)pyrene, Benzo(a)anthracene, Chrysene, Dibenzo(a,h)anthracene.
Application Areas:
- Vegetable and Animal Oils, Smoked and Heat-Treated Meat Products, Smoked Fish Products, Smoked Mollusks, Baby and Infant Complementary Foods.