USE OF CHROMOGENIC SUBSTRATES IN PERSONAL MONITORS FOR THE DETECTION OF PROTEASE IN FACTORY AIR - A THEORETICAL-MODEL

A model is presented which predicts the accumulation of an airborne pr otease enzyme in an aerosol sampler. The model allows the prediction o f the product accumulation as a result of the catalysis by the enzyme of a chromogenic substrate. The first and second derivatives of the pr oduct accumulation curve are calculated and used to evaluate the best parameter for the device. If the device is to be used for the detectio n of a pulse of a high local concentration of protease then it is nece ssary for the device to be able to measure the first derivative of the product accumulation curve. Factors affecting the sensitivity of the device are discussed. Copyright (C) 1996 British Occupational Hygiene Society.