Sampling and analysis of microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs)
Campbell, J., Casteel, C., Chen, K. and Tuday, M.
2002
American Industrial Hygiene Conference, AIHce PDCs - San Diego, June 1 - 2
Campbell, J., Casteel, C., Chen, K. and Tuday, M., (2002), "Sampling and analysis of microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs)", American Industrial Hygiene Conference, AIHce PDCs - San Diego, June 1 - 2.
| Abstract: |
| Microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs) are increasingly being used as an investigative tool in indoor air quality (IAQ) evaluations. These compounds represent challenges in terms of sampling and analysis, since the list of MVOCs frequently quantified in IAQ investigations include polar and non-polar compounds with a wide range in boiling points (66 to >250 C). The approach most frequently cited involves collection on a solid sorbent (e.g., Anasorb 747) with solvent desorption and analysis by gas chromatography / mass spectrometry (GC/MS) using selective ion monitoring (SIM) mode. However, very little work has been done to validate this method at the levels that are being reported in the scientific literature (e.g., 0.01 mg/m3 based on a 48 liter sample).
This paper presents the results of validation of a sampling and analytical method for MVOCs performed utilizing the NIOSH approach. Two different sorbents (coconut shell charcoal; Anasorb 747) and several different desorption solvent combinations were examined as part of this process, which included analysis of samples collected from known atmospheres and during field trials. Based on the combined results of desorption efficiency, instrument detection limit, method detection limit, one month storage and breakthrough studies, as well as tube artifacts, it was concluded that 12 of the 15 MVOCs collected on either sorbent could be consistently and reliably quantified down to a method reporting limit (MRL) of 1 mg/m3. Desorption efficiencies of greater than 75% were determined at this MRL for all compounds except three alcohols (1-octen-3-ol, 3-octanol, 2-octen-1-ol), which had a MRL of 20 mg/m3. In contrast, a much lower MRL was achieved for geosmin and 2-MIB. Although these MRLs are substantially higher than those reported in the literature, they were all below the available odor thresholds for the compounds in question. |
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This publication in whole or part may be found online at:  here. |
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