Used as a reference standard in analytical laboratories for the detection and quantification of phenanthrene in environmental samples such as water, soil, and air. Commonly employed in gas chromatography (GC) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to calibrate instruments and validate methods. Essential in environmental monitoring to assess pollution levels, especially in studies related to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) contamination from sources like vehicle emissions, industrial processes, and oil spills. Also used in research settings to evaluate the efficiency of remediation techniques and to study the behavior of PAHs in ecosystems.