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Determination of low levels of total nonmethane hydrocarbon content in ambient air

Journal Article · · Environ. Sci. Technol.; (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1021/es00095a014· OSTI ID:5480068
A simple, yet highly efficient method has been developed for the detemination of low levels of total non-methane hydrocarbons (NMHCs) in ambient air. The method consists of cryogenically concentrating non-methane hydrocarbon species and thermally desorbing these directly into a flame ionization detector, without the use of a chromatographic column. This method provides an accurate, cost-effective means of acquiring NMHC data for atmospheric modeling studies. Although the method requires manual operation, it provides data which cannot accurately be obtained with automated techniques. The method was used to study NMHC levels upwind of Nashvile, TN. Critical procedures for the collection of ambient air samples are also discussed.
Research Organization:
Radian Corp., Austin, TX
OSTI ID:
5480068
Journal Information:
Environ. Sci. Technol.; (United States), Journal Name: Environ. Sci. Technol.; (United States) Vol. 16:1; ISSN ESTHA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English