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Time-weighted average sampling of airborne propylene glycol ethers by a solid-phase microextraction device
1Institute of Environmental Health & Department of Public Health, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene
|June 2, 2012
Summary
A novel solid-phase microextraction (SPME) diffusive sampler effectively measures airborne propylene glycol ethers (PGEs). Experimental results closely correlate with established OSHA methods, though temperature and humidity require consideration.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Chemistry
- Analytical Chemistry
- Occupational Health
Background:
- Propylene glycol ethers (PGEs) are widely used industrial solvents.
- Accurate monitoring of airborne PGEs is crucial for occupational safety.
- Existing sampling methods may have limitations in terms of ease of use and cost.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a solid-phase microextraction (SPME) device as a diffusive sampler for airborne PGEs.
- To compare the performance of the SPME diffusive sampler with a standard OSHA method.
- To investigate the influence of environmental factors on sampling efficiency.
Main Methods:
- A Carboxen-polydimethylsiloxane (CAR/PDMS) SPME fiber housed in PTFE tubing was used as a diffusive sampler.
- Known concentrations of PGEs were generated using air bag and dynamic generation systems.
- Gas chromatography/flame ionization detector (GC/FID) was employed for sample analysis.
- Side-by-side comparisons with OSHA organic Method 99 were conducted for PGME.
Main Results:
- The SPME diffusive sampler demonstrated effective collection of PGME, PGMEA, and DPGME.
- Experimental sampling constants showed significant differences from theoretical values, potentially due to adsorption on the SPME needle.
- Excellent linear correlation (r=0.9984) and consistency were observed between the SPME method and OSHA Method 99 for PGME.
- Face velocity had no significant impact, but temperature and humidity affected sampling rates.
Conclusions:
- The SPME diffusive sampler is a viable tool for monitoring airborne PGEs.
- The method shows good agreement with established OSHA protocols.
- Further adjustments to experimental sampling constants are needed to account for environmental variables like temperature and humidity.
