This Volume presents methods for analysing and quantifying petroleum hydrocarbons and lipids
based on their chemical and physical properties as well as their biological effects. It
features protocols for extracting hydrocarbons from solid matrices water and air and a
dedicated chapter focusing on volatile organic compounds. Several approaches for separating and
detecting diverse classes of hydrocarbons and lipids are described including: (tandem) gas
chromatography (GC) coupled with mass spectrometry (MS) or flame-ionisation detection
Fourier-transform induction-coupled-resonance MS and fluorescence-based techniques. The book
details high-performance liquid chromatography MS for microbial lipids as well as a
combination of techniques for naphthenic acids. Two chapters focus on quantifying bioavailable
hydrocarbon fractions by using cyclodextrin sorbents and bacterial bioreporters respectively
while a closing chapter explains how compound-specific stable-isotope analysis can be used to
measure the fate of hydrocarbons in the environment.Hydrocarbon and Lipid Microbiology
ProtocolsThere are tens of thousands of structurally different hydrocarbons hydrocarbon
derivatives and lipids and a wide array of these molecules are required for cells to function.
The global hydrocarbon cycle which is largely driven by microorganisms has a major impact on
our environment and climate. Microbes are responsible for cleaning up the environmental
pollution caused by the exploitation of hydrocarbon reservoirs and will also be pivotal in
reducing our reliance on fossil fuels by providing biofuels plastics and industrial chemicals.
Gaining an understanding of the relevant functions of the wide range of microbes that produce
consume and modify hydrocarbons and related compounds will be key to responding to these
challenges. This comprehensive collection of current and emerging protocols will facilitate
acquisition of this understanding and exploitation of useful activities of such microbes.
