Skip to main content
U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Simplified measurement technique for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons using the EPA Method 5 sampling train

Journal Article · · J. Air Pollut. Control Assoc.; (United States)

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) are emitted from a variety of processes, including combustion processes, that are often scrutinized for other air pollutants including particulate matter and inorganic oxides. Studies have shown that some PAH compounds are carcinogenic, thus stimulating interest in quantifying and studying the influence of various system parameters on PAH emissions. A problem is encountered when PAH measurements are required is selection of a sampling train suitable for quantifying both particulate and PAH compounds. Previous studies, where PAH compounds have been measured, have employed EPA Method 5 with various modifications to make it more suitable for collection of volatile and reactive organic compounds. The paper describes a technique using an adsorbent packed column that is easily retrofitted to the Method 5 sampling train and used with a standard soxhlet extraction apparatus. The adsorbent is contained in a stainless steel canister that is inserted in a Method 5 bubbler and later in an extraction soxhlet, thus eliminating the need for transferring adsorbent.

Research Organization:
Purdue Univ., West Lafayette, IN
OSTI ID:
6945584
Journal Information:
J. Air Pollut. Control Assoc.; (United States), Journal Name: J. Air Pollut. Control Assoc.; (United States) Vol. 34:2; ISSN JPCAA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English