APPLICATION OF DIFFUSIVE SAMPLING IN THE DETERMINATION OF VOLATILE ORGANIC ATMOSPHERIC POLLUTANTS

In this paper the applicability of a Tenax GR tube-type diffusive samp ler for static monitoring was studied in order to determine time-weigh ted average (TWA) concentrations of some volatile aromatic atmospheric pollutants. The good response of the sampler to transient changes in concentration implies that diffusive sampling can provide truly reliab le TWA concentrations even when erratically changing concentrations ar e encountered. This conclusion seems to be supported by the good agree ment between the results of diffusive and active sampling. The results may imply that diffusive sampling-as a consequence of its advantages: unattended operation for longer period, simplicity, low cost, precisi on, reliability - will play an important role in monitoring organic po llutants in the atmosphere.