Analysis of trace pollutants in the air by means of cryogenic gas chromatography

Abstract

The utilization of a laboratory-constructed programmable, cryogenic gas chromatograph (KEDBOR1OIR1) for use in air pollution studies is presented. The instrument (J. Chromatogr., 89(1974) 1) is modular in design and incorporates many commercially available components as well as a few "scratch-built" parts. A temperature control range of --100 degrees C to plus 300 degrees C, with five programmable rates, is possible using this particular instrument. The instrument is capable of dual-column and dual-detector operation. Data have been gathered from laboratory-prepared samples as well as from samples obtained from an air pollution study in the Philadelphia area. Small amounts (ppm or less) of the gaseous hydrocarbons and the common inorganic gases (NOx,SOx,CO, CO2, H2S, COS) are detected and quantitated. Calibration curves for each gaseous component have been constructed and the analyzed samples compared to them for quantitative data. Data and information from the use of several different columns, sampling sites and their locations are presented. Experimental data agreed favorably with the current findings and discussions of air pollution problems.