Optical imaging of organic pollutants: real time detection and identification

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are recalcitrant pollutants that can induce carcinogenic, hazardous and mutagenic effects in living organisms. Numerous traditional methods are available for their identification, but these methods require large samples and are time-consuming. In this study we have developed a new method for the determination of PAHs by exploiting their intrinsic fluorescence characteristics. The aim of this research is to investigate real time identification of different PAHs including; Naphthalene, Pyrene and Phenanthrene by using their autofluorescence properties. These pollutants have shown specific optical signatures that are useful for their rapid detection in the contaminated area. In addition to their specific emission spectra, lifetime analysis also can be used to distinguish PAHs with high level of certainty. Our research offers new avenues for real time detection of pollutants.