Forensic Analysis using UVF and USGS Laboratory Results Testing PAHs in Coal Tar Pavement Sealants

Environmental scientists use a variety of forensic techniques to identify the source of hydrocarbons using laboratory data.  This study compares Sitelab’s UVF data and laboratory GC/MS data using double ratio plots testing pavement sealants for Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs).  Ratios were then applied using data in three studies conducted by the United States Geological Survey (USGS), concerning the use of coal tar sealants and how they impact the environment.