SIMPLE AND RAPID METHOD FOR THE DETERMINATION OF PETROLEUM-PRODUCTS IN WATER

Simple and rapid method for the determination of the total of C-7-C32 hydrocarbons in water has been described. Water samples are extracted with n-pentane (n-pentane: water = 1 : 50) in a graduated flask; extra ction is followed by gas-chromatography analysis using flame ionizatio n detector. The yields for hydrocarbon recovery are high, usually in e xcess of 90%. The extraction procedure is very versatile; water contam inated with benzene and higher molecular weight hydrocarbons from gaso line, kerosene, diesel oil, and very heavy petroleum products (engine oil, mazout) can be handled. The limit of determination is 3 mug l-1 f or the individual hydrocarbon and 10-40 mug l-1 for the petroleum prod uct. The method has been tested extensively for the samples of ground water from the areas subjected to leaks of petroleum products.