Volatile and Semi-Volatile Organic Compounds in a Single Air Analysis:  The Cost Effective “Green” Solution  

Air Methods & Monitoring
Oral Presentation

Prepared by L. Marotta
Perkin Elmer, 710 Bridgeport Ave, Shelton, Connecticut, 06484, United States


Contact Information: lee.marotta@perkinelmer.com; 914-954-1779


ABSTRACT

There is an increasing need to measure both volatile and semi-volatile components (VOCs and SVOCs) in air, as their impact to human health continues to be a concern.  Historically, this analysis required two sampling and analytical methods.  Now, VOCs and SVOCs can be analyzed with enhanced accuracy and recovery in one air sample and one analytical method using EPA method TO-17.

To enable the analysis of this wide boiling point range, a new sorbent tube was developed to measure 1,3-butadiene through benzo(g,h,i)perylene.  Site study recoveries of all regulated 16 Polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) will be demonstrated.

 It is advantageous to perform this test in one analysis instead of two.  Only one sample will need to be collected in the field, significantly reducing sampling costs. Only one analytical method is required instead of two methods (EPA TO-13 and TO-15), enhancing laboratory productivity, profitability, and safety.  In addition, it will be shown this is a “greener” analysis.

 Data will be presented to demonstrate both field and analytical soundness of this combined method.  Several site studies will also be discussed in which side-by-side sampling and analysis was performed between the TO-15/TO-13 methods and the TO-17 method.