THE EVALUATION OF A TENAX GR DIFFUSIVE SAMPLER FOR THE DETERMINATION OF BENZENE AND OTHER VOLATILE AROMATICS IN OUTDOOR AIR

The applicability of a tube-type diffusive sampler as an environmental monitor for benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylene (BTEX) is repor ted. Uptake rates have been experimentally determined for a novel type adsorbent, Tenax GR, and compared to theoretical values. It is shown, that the uptake rates are virtually independent of environmental para meters within the experimental conditions studied. The response of the sampler to transient changes in concentrations has been determined in the laboratory. It is found that the sampler is capable of following an extreme concentration profile. Field comparisons with pumped sample rs have been performed and good agreement is observed between the resu lts of the two independent methods. The samplers have also been applie d as environmental monitors at different locations.