Ambient Air Monitoring and Testing - Using Chromatography

The impact of air quality on our daily lives cannot be overstated. Poor air quality poses significant risks to human health with the potential to be life-threatening 

While inadequate indoor air quality might initially cause mild symptoms like fatigue and headaches, prolonged exposure can result in severe health issues. Various concerning contaminants include volatile organic compounds (VOCs), semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs), metals, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), among others. 

Given the diverse range of potential contaminants, reliable analytical techniques are imperative for assessment. Commonly relied upon methods include various aspects of chromatography, including LC, GC, and GC-MS. 

Thorough research into the root causes of air pollution is key to establishing and enforcing regulations, compelling individuals and industries to adjust their practices to mitigate the release of hazardous substances into the atmosphere. 

The Role of Chromatography 

Chromatography serves as a valuable tool aiding ambient air monitoring and testing, facilitating the investigation of causes and potential improvements.  

This analytical method enables scientists to effectively separate compounds, enhancing their comprehension of these compounds impact on the atmosphere. By analyzing chemicals released into the atmosphere using chromatography, we gain a deeper understanding of their origins and can develop strategies to minimize or eliminate these contaminants from our environment. 

Industries Requiring Chromatography for Ambient Air Monitoring

• Manufacturers hold a legal obligation to provide adequate labelling on their product content regarding air quality concerns and ventilation. For instance, paint cans often carry warnings advising use in well-ventilated spaces due to the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) they contain. These VOCs must be ventilated to prevent inhalation. Gas chromatography analysis equips manufacturers with essential chemical data to inform consumers. 
• Gas chromatography plays a crucial role in the fuel industry, assessing toxin levels. Fuel manufacturers must uphold safety standards and reduce their environmental impact. Gas chromatography is widely employed in the fuel sector to mitigate pollution and safeguard the well-being of consumers and workers alike. 

Related Application Notes: 

Our dedicated applications team has conducted extensive research in the field of air quality analysis. To delve deeper into our findings and insights, we invite you to download the comprehensive application notes provided below. 

• Environmental Monitoring of Low-Level Sulphur in Ambient Air 
• Monitoring 57 Ozone Precursors in Ambient Air 
• The Detection of Vehicle Emissions in Exhaust Gases and Ozone Precursors in Ambient Air with a Built-In Preconcentrate/GC System 
• US EPA Method TO-15 Volatile Organic Compounds in Ambient Air 
• High Temperature Headspace Assay of Polymers with SCION Instruments HT3 Static Headspace Instrument 
• Analysis of 2,4-DNPH Derivatised Aldehydes by HPLC-DAD 
• Determination of Oxygenated Compounds in Gasoline in Compliance with ASTM D4815 
• Performance of EPA Method 8270 using Hydrogen Carrier Gas on SCION GC-MS 

Here to Help 

If you are working in air quality analysis and wish to speak to one of our applications experts to learn more about how our systems can help you, please get in touch.