Researchers at the University of Tehran have developed an environmentally friendly analytical method for detecting hazardous volatile organic compounds in urban environments, as reported by
Mehr News Agency, a partner of TV BRICS.
The new technique targets benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylene isomers, collectively known as BTEX. These compounds are among the major environmental pollutants because of their toxicity and widespread presence in air, water and soil.
The research team from the university’s College of Science developed a magnetic, asymmetric composite nanofibre membrane to extract and concentrate BTEX compounds before they are analysed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS).
The method is based on membrane-assisted solid-phase microextraction and uses a two-layer nanofibre structure produced through electrospinning. According to the researchers, the system combines high analytical performance with lower environmental impact compared with conventional approaches.
Laboratory validation showed that the method provided a linear response across concentrations ranging from 10 to 10,000 micrograms per litre. Its detection limits ranged from 0.09 to 0.45 micrograms per litre, allowing the targeted pollutants to be identified at very low concentrations.
The technique also demonstrated a relative standard deviation of between 2.5 and 7 per cent, while enrichment factors ranged from 14.8 to 23.8, indicating consistent performance and effective concentration of the target compounds before analysis.
The membrane was subsequently tested using real samples collected from urban air, surface water and soil. The researchers reported acceptable recovery rates for all four groups of target pollutants, suggesting that the method can be applied beyond controlled laboratory conditions.
Durability tests also showed that the membrane retained more than 90 per cent of its initial performance after seven consecutive cycles of use. This indicates that the material can potentially be reused while maintaining its analytical efficiency.
The researchers say the combination of sensitivity, reusability and reduced environmental impact could make the technology a practical alternative to some conventional methods for monitoring volatile organic pollutants.
The development could support more efficient environmental monitoring in urban areas, where detecting hazardous compounds at low concentrations is essential for assessing pollution levels and potential risks to public health.