The determination of organic volatiles in air pollution studies: characterization of profiles

Bertsch, W; Chang, RC; Zlatkis, A

HERO ID

18331

Reference Type

Journal Article

Year

1974

HERO ID 18331
In Press No
Year 1974
Title The determination of organic volatiles in air pollution studies: characterization of profiles
Authors Bertsch, W; Chang, RC; Zlatkis, A
Journal Journal of Chromatographic Science
Volume 12
Issue 4
Page Numbers 175-182
Abstract HEEP COPYRIGHT: BIOL ABS. An analytical method is described in which trace quantities of organic materials in air are adsorbed on a porous polymer of high temperature stability. The trapped substances are subsequently heat desorbed and transferred to a short precolumn which is kept at subambient temperature. Separation is effected by gas chromatography with efficient capillary columns. Identification of the separated compounds is established by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Profiles established over a period of approximately 18 mo. are remarkably constant for samples collected in urban environments. Once a profile is qualitatively made, quantitative results can be obtained for a large number of substances with a high degree of accuracy. The absolute concentrations of substances vary within wide limits; weather conditions being the prime factor. The overall picture does not suggest large compositional variations within samples taken from heavily industrialized areas and urban environments. Several hundred substances can be recognized, ranging from C5 to C16. Almost 100 compounds, mostly alkanes and substituted aromatic hydrocarbons were identified. Other substances present in trace quantities are aldehydes and chlorinated hydrocarbons. Volatiles, eluting before benzene, can be determined only qualitatively, since displacement occurs by less volatile substances with increasing sample size. The new method has significant advantages over existing procedures such as ease of handling, versatility, simplicity and economy.
Is Certified Translation No
Dupe Override 18331
Comments J. Chromatogr. Sci. 12: 175-182.
Is Public Yes
Is Qa No