The Sampling and Analysis of Volatile Organic Compounds in the Atmosphere

Publisher Summary Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) may have direct detrimental effects, particularly on human health. In addition, VOCs, especially nonmethane hydrocarbons, together with nitrogen oxides (NO x ), are important pre-cursors in the formation of photochemical oxidants including ozone. Although ozone in the stratosphere plays an important role in protecting the Earth's surface from the exposure to ultraviolet radiation, its presence in the lower troposphere has detrimental effects on human beings, animals, and plant species. Thus, measures are being taken to control ozone in ground-level ambient air. Accurate measurements of volatile organic compound (VOC) concentrations in the atmosphere are essential in assessing the risk of these compounds to the human environment and particularly in controlling the concentrations of ozone and other secondary pollutants in the lower troposphere. In designing a VOC sampling program, suitable sampling and analytical methods should be selected according to the properties of the target compounds to ensure representative sampling, precise and accurate quantification, and the best sensitivity. This chapter summarizes the application of commonly used sampling and analytical methods for airborne VOC monitoring and their range and limitations. The chapter also discusses the possible applications of several new potential sampling and analytical methods and developments in the use of new methods.