Evaluation of Portable Multisorbent Air Samplers for Use with an Automated Multitube Analyzer

摘要

The objective of the study was to evaluate the operational characteristics of the Perkin-Elmer Model STS 25 Sequential Tube Sampler and IITRI/IIT (IIT Research Institute/Illinois Institute of Technology) Total Isolated-by-Microenvironment Exposure (TIME) monitor. Both units use multisorbent carbon-based sampling tubes to collect volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in ambient air and a analytical procedure that does not require cryogens for analysis. A Perkin Elmer Auto Thermal Desorption System (Model ATD 400) was used to process the collection tubes for analysis of the target species (VOCs listed in the EPA TO-14 method). The Model STS 25 is designed to sample air with up to 24 tubes, one at a time for a preset period of time. The TIME monitor is designed to measure total exposure to volatile organics and apportion the exposure into its micro-environmental components indoor (workplace/residential), outdoor or in-transit. The TIME unit uses ultrasound reflection to identify a subject's location. Very good precision for collection and analysis of these volatile organic compounds was achieved.