Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAH)

Needed material: 10ml Heparin blood

According to the German Federal Environmental Agency, PAHs are produced by the incomplete combustion of organic material such as wood, coal or oil, as well as in small combustion plants, by industrial processes, open fireplaces or tobacco smoke. In addition, this group of substances is a natural component raw fossil materials such as coal and petroleum. Tar oils and certain oils from petroleum processing may be mixed with softening rubber and plastics. The largest proportion of PAHs reaching the consumer comes from these uses. Whether in mouse pads, toys or bathing shoes - "Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons" (PAH) are omnipresent.

Many PAHs have carcinogenic, mutagenic and / or reproduction affecting properties (Crone and Tolstoy, 2010). Some PAHs are simultaneously persistent, bioaccumulating and toxic to humans and other organisms. Substances that combine these properties are particularly dangerous.

Testing includes up to seven polycyclic aromatics.

  • Acenaphthylene
  • Fluoranthene
  • Benzo(a)pyrene
  • Benzo(b)fluoranthene
  • Benzo(k)fluoranthene
  • Benzo(ghi)perylene
  • Indeno[1,2,3-c, d]pyrene

Chlorinated hydrocarbons

Testing includes: Dichloromethane, Tetrachloroethane, Tetrachloromethane, Trichloroethane, Trichloroethylene

Needed material: 5ml EDTA blood

These are widely used as paint stripping and degreasing solvents.

High prenatal exposure to PAHs is associated with lower IQ and childhood asthma (Health Day News, Jul 20, 2009).

Non chlorinated hydrocarbons

Needed Material: 5ml EDTA Blood

Tested are: 1-Butanol, 2-Butanol, i-Butanol, Ethanol, Ethyl acetate, Isobutyl acetate, Methanol, Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK), Methyl Isobutyl Ketone (MIBK), 1-Propanol, 2-Propanol.

These common solvents are widely used as cleaners and varnish removers, in paints, perfumes and even to decaffeinate coffee beans and tea. They are used in industry and many consumer products.

Download Sample Submission Sheet for organic solvent testing in blood, fill out and send with sample. Regular mail or air mail is sufficient. Freezing is not needed, but make sure sample is adequately protected to prevent breakage.