Analytical determination of mineral oil hydrocarbons (MOSH/MOAH) is a great challenge. Currently, Online-HPLC-GC coupling is the method of choice and is established as a standard method for the analytics of MOH (mineral oil hydrocarbons) in many laboratories. To increase sensitivity, selectivity and reproducibility, additional techniques are required.
For the determination of MOH in various matrices there are steps of the classical, manual sample preparation technique and clean-up that may be automated using a XYZ robot. Examples of such are the epoxidation for the removal of disturbing olefins, the elimination of plant alkanes with an aluminum oxide column and the reduction of high MOSH content.
Thomas Funke, Funke Analytic Consult