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The study of adverse effects of air pollution requires semi-continuous, rapid and accurate measurements of inorganic species in aerosols and their gas phase components in ambient air. The most promising instruments, often referred to as steam collecting devices, are the Particle-Into-Liquid-Sampler (PILS) coupled to wet-chemical analyzers such as a cation and/or anion chromatograph (IC) and the Monitoring instrument for AeRosols and GAses (MARGA) with two integrated ICs. Both instruments comprise gas denuders, a condensation particle growth sampler as well as pump and control devices. While PILS uses two consecutive fixed denuders and a downstream growth chamber, the MARGA system is composed of a Wet Rotating Denuder (WRD) and a Steam-Jet Aerosol Collector (SJAC). Although the aerosol samplers of PILS and MARGA use different assemblies, both apply the technique of growing aerosol particles into droplets in a supersaturated water vapor environment. Previously mixed with carrier water, the collected droplets are continuously fed into sample loops or preconcentration columns for on-line IC analysis. While PILS has been designed to sample aerosols only, MARGA additionally determines water-soluble gases. Compared to the classical denuders, which remove gases from the air sample upstream of the growth chamber, MARGA collects the gaseous species in a WRD for on-line analysis. In contrast to the gases, aerosols have low diffusion speeds and thus neither dissolve in the PILS denuders nor in the WRD. Proper selection of the ion chromatographic conditions of PILS-IC allows a precise determination, within 4 to 5 minutes, of seven major inorganic species (Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Cl-, NO3- and SO4 2-) in fine aerosol particles. With longer analysis times (10-15 minutes) even airborne low-molecular-weight organic acids, such as acetate, formate and oxalate can be analyzed. MARGA additionally facilitates the simultaneous determination of HCl, HNO3, HNO2, SO2 and NH3.PILS and MARGA provide semi-continuous, long-term stand-alone measurements (1 week) and can measure particulate pollutants in the ng/m3 range.

This study compares air sampling data obtained by a filter-based method including off-line manual filter extraction followed by ion chromatographic analysis with those gained by an automated Particle-Into-Liquid-Sampler coupled to an ion chromatograph (PILS-IC).PILS-IC is a straightforward instrument for aerosol sampling that provides near real-time measurements for long-term unattended operation and is thus an indispensable tool to monitor rapid changes in aerosol particle ionic composition.

This poster presents an approach that couples a Particle-Into-Liquid-Sampler (PILS) to a dual-channel ion chromatograph (IC) for measurement of aerosol anions and cations and a voltammetric measuring stand (VA) to determine the heavy metals. Feasibility of the PILS-IC-VA online system was demonstrated by collecting aerosol samples in Herisau Switzerland, at defined time intervals; air pollution events were simulated by burning lead- and cadmium-coated sparklers.

The quantitative determination of the alkaloid nicotine, which is an essential constituent of the tobacco plant, can be carried out by polarography. The quantification limit is less than 0.1 mg/L in the polarographic vessel.

Formaldehyde can be determined reductively at the DME. Depending on the sample composition it may be possible to determine the formaldehyde directly in the sample. If interferences occur then sample preparation may be necessary, e.g. absorption, extraction, or distillation.Two methods are described. In the first method formaldehyde is reduced directly in alkaline solution. Higher concentrations of alkaline or alkaline earth metals interfere. In such cases the second method can be applied. Formaldehyde is derivatized with hydrazine forming the hydrazone, which can be measured polarographically in acidic solution.

Determination of sodium, ammonium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium in an ambient aerosol (PM2.5) using aerosol sampling with the PILS (Particle Into Liquid Sampler) and cation chromatography with direct conductivity detection.

As a result of the private burning of wood, concentrations of levoglucosan, mannosan, and galactosan in the air are usually increased during the winter months. On the other hand, one can expect a greater contribution of sugar components from biogenic sources during the summer months. An optimum separation and sensitivity of the saccharide markers that accumulate on air filters can be achieved on the Metrosep Carb 2 - 150/4.0 column with subsequent pulsed amperometric detection.

As a result of the private burning of wood, concentrations of levoglucosan, mannosan and galactosan in the air are usually increased during the winter months. By contrast, a greater contribution of sugar components originating from biogenic sources can be anticipated in the summer months. Optimum separation and sensitivity of the saccharide markers that collect on air filters are achieved on the Metrosep Carb 2 - 150/2.0 column with subsequent pulsed amperometric detection.

Determination of chloride and sulfate in dust using anion chromatography with conductivity detection after chemical suppression.Sample:dust sampleSample preparation:0.1 g of dust dissolved in 100 mL c(HNO3) = 0.02 mol/L 0.45 µm filtration

Determination of chloride, nitrite, nitrate, and sulfate in an ambient aerosol (PM2.5) using aerosol sampling with the PILS (Particle Into Liquid Sampler) and anion chromatography with conductivity detection after sequential suppression.

Azide may be formed during the production of certain pharmaceutical products. It can cause explosions during manufacturing. Therefore, its concentration in the air needs to be monitored in order to prevent such accidents. Azide (N3-) is well separated from standard anions on the Metrosep A Supp 5 - 250/4.0 under standard conditions.

Determination of arsenic in dust from a waste incineration plant is performed. This is required as the environmental risk depends on the degree of oxidation of the arsenic species. Due to the different pKa of the respective anions, selenite requires non-suppressed conductivity detection, while arsenate is best determined with suppression. The determination of both species is achieved by switching the suppressor in and out, respectively.

This article describes the composition of atmospheric inorganic gases and aerosols in the Southeast and Northwest of the United States during a time period of several weeks. The semicontinuous sampling in hourly cycles takes place using the MARGA system from Metrohm Applikon. The temporal resolution of the aerosol and gas composition makes it possible to generate statements regarding the chemical origin and hygroscopicity of the particles. These are fundamental for rating the influence of aerosols on the climate.

This Metrohm White Paper presents the important role of electrochemistry in the environmental sciences. The applications have to do with basic research for the fuel cell that yields energy from wastewater, the electrical clean-up of contaminated soil and electrochemical CO2 reduction of greenhouse gases for isolating chemical raw materials.

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