MODERN METHODS FOR THE DETERMINATION OF M ERCURY IN AMBIENT AIR

This paper describes some recent developments in the determination of gaseous mercury in ambient air. With the presented techniques quantita tive measurements of atmospheric mercury can be carried out under remo te conditions as well as in industrialized or contaminated areas. In r emote areas with Hg-background concentrations, 12 hours are the typica l sampling time with a sample volume of 3001 to 5001. At sites with hi gher loads, 20 minutes sampling time and a few liters of air could be sufficient. Different techniques for the determination of the most imp ortant volatile mercury compounds (species) are presented and discusse d. Additionally, a recently developed automated analyzer will be prese nted. With this instrument, continuous measurements of total gaseous m ercury with a high time resolution can be carried out on a routine bas is.