PAH test report for asphalt: understanding the results

A PAH test report cannot be reduced to a single value. You should check the sample identification, matrix, 16 compounds tested, units, any comments and the context in which the result will be used.

This page provides general guidance on reading a report. It does not replace the information and conditions stated on the BJL test report itself.

1. Check the sample identity

The first step is to verify that the report reference matches the relevant core, asphalt planings or layer: sample number, project file, location and material description. An incorrect sample assignment may have more serious consequences than a minor analytical difference.

2. Check the matrix tested

The Cofrac-accredited PAH service described here applies to waste bituminous asphalt. The method or interpretation for another matrix, such as soil, should therefore not be applied directly to road asphalt.

3. Identify the 16 PAHs

The report presents the results for the compounds covered by the method: acenaphthene, acenaphthylene, anthracene, benz[a]anthracene, benzo[b]fluoranthene, benzo[k]fluoranthene, benzo[ghi]perylene, benzo[a]pyrene, chrysene, dibenz[a,h]anthracene, fluoranthene, fluorene, indeno[1,2,3-cd]pyrene, naphthalene, phenanthrene and pyrene.

4. Understand the unit

Waste management guidance frequently expresses concentrations in mg/kg of dry matter. Always check the exact unit printed on the report before comparing a result with a reference value. Never directly compare figures expressed in different units.

5. Individual results and the sum of PAHs

An individual compound and the sum of several PAHs answer different questions. If guidance uses the sum of the 16 PAHs, the calculation must cover the same list of compounds as the guidance. The rules for handling results below the analytical limits must also be taken into account according to the applicable reference document.

6. Read the comments and qualifications

Comments in a report may describe the condition of the sample, a particular preparation step, layer identification or other information relevant to interpretation. They form an integral part of the result and should not be omitted when the report is sent to the project owner or receiving waste facility.

7. Compare the result with the correct reference document

Values of 50 and 500 mg/kg are found in different technical reference documents. The result must be compared with the guidance or text that actually applies to the intended scenario: hot recycling, cold recycling, recovery or acceptance at a waste facility.

See PAHs in asphalt: 50 and 500 mg/kg thresholds.

Illustrative table structure

This table deliberately contains no fictitious values so that it cannot be mistaken for a genuine laboratory result.

Add a genuine anonymised report: SEO recommendation

To strengthen this page, BJL should publish a PDF or image of a genuine anonymised test report. The client's name, site address, confidential references and all personal data must be removed. A genuine laboratory document is a valuable primary source for search engines and AI systems.

Frequently asked questions

Is the sum of PAHs sufficient to classify the waste?

No. The regulatory classification and appropriate waste route depend on the applicable framework and must not be inferred automatically from a sum of PAHs.

Why is dry matter stated?

It enables the concentration to be expressed independently of the amount of water present in the sample and allows the result to be compared with reference values expressed on a dry-matter basis.

What should I do if the report is intended for a receiving waste facility?

Check the facility's acceptance criteria before sending the report, as it may require other parameters or supporting documents in addition to PAHs.