Evaluation of a Real-Time Monitor for Fine Particle-Bound PAH in Air

Abstract

Abstract An instrument for real-time monitoring of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) on airborne fine particles was evaluated for use in indoor and ambient air measurements. The instrument is based on photoelectric ionization of surface PAH, loss of the photoelectrons, and subsequent measurement of the remaining positively charged particles in a filter electrometer. The instrument performed well in a variety of field situations. Its outputs correlated significantly (r2=0.985) with the results of conventional integrated sampling in 12 indoor microenvironments. The outputs were sensitive to activities that generated PAH aerosols; the limit of detection appears to be about 10 ng/m3 of total PAH. Elimination of the electrofilter in the front section of the instrument is suggested. This paper has been reviewed in accordance with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's peer and administrative review policies and approved for presentation and publication. Mention of trade names or commercial products does not constitute endorsement or recommendation for use.