ResourceSeparations

Determination of Volatile Organic Compounds in Air

27 May 2013

Air pollution is a growing problem due to the global economy and industrial development in many countries. As a result, the analysis of ambient air is a growing field. This application note describes the analysis of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in air samples using the Environmental Protection Agency developed Method TO-15. Air samples are collected in prepared stainless steel canisters and analyzed by Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS).

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Sample PreparationSample preparation can improve the quality and speed of separation techniques. Products to assist sample preparation include filtration equipment, evaporators, membranes and sieves.Environmental Monitoring and TestingEnvironmental monitoring and testing uses handheld portable analyzers, kits, spectrometers or chromatography systems for air, water, soil, food and other sample testing. Useful features of analyzers such as BOD and COD include portability, easy calibration, automation and sensitivity.  Environmental test kits for pH, water, moisture, etc, should be accurate, sensitive, reliable, fast and easy to use.GC-MS GC-MS (gas chromatography-mass spectrometry) instruments and equipment are used to separate, quantify and identify mixtures of small and volatile compounds, such as polycyclic aromatics, fatty acids and alcohols. Often used in drug detection, forensic investigation and environmental analysis for pesticides and contaminants, GC-MS is a powerful addition to your lab’s analytical capabilities. GC-MS/MS instruments equipped with a qTOF or triple quadrupole analyzers can give greater sensitivity and resolution to your analysis. Find the best GC-MS instruments and equipment in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemicals that have a low boiling point. Some VOCs are harmful to human health, whereas others can be used to determine the shelf-life of foods samples. Air SamplingAir sampling is described as the technique used to capture air for the subsequent purpose of analyzing, typically by thermal desorption, the presence of trace particulates, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs).Airborne PollutantsAirborne pollutants are particulates, biological molecules or other harmful materials that exist in the atmosphere. These pollutants are known to cause harm to health and the environment. Examples include persistent organic pollutants (POPs), carbon monoxide, sulfur oxides, and nitrogen oxides.Environmental ContaminationContaminants in the environment are harmful chemicals that are present in the air, land and water. These include pesticides, pharmaceuticals, persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and many more.EPA MethodsEPA methods are procedures approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for monitoring and analyzing environmental pollutants, including air, water, and soil samples. These methods are critical in ensuring public health and environmental safety. Explore EPA methods and tools in our peer-reviewed product directory; compare products, check reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.