Exposing Halogenated Airborne Pollutants by Non-Targeted Screening of Passive Samplers Using Ion Mobility-Mass...

Area of Science:

• Environmental Chemistry
• Analytical Chemistry
• Atmospheric Science

Background:

• Industrial activities in Hamilton and Sarnia, Ontario, contribute to significant air pollution challenges.
• Existing air quality assessments may not fully capture the range of harmful airborne pollutants.
• Halogenated organic pollutants pose risks to human health and the environment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and characterize halogenated airborne organic pollutants in Hamilton and Sarnia, Ontario.
• To employ advanced analytical techniques for non-target screening of air samples.
• To compare pollutant profiles between the two industrially distinct cities.

Main Methods:

• Utilized gas chromatography coupled with ion mobility spectrometry and high-resolution mass spectrometry (GC-IMS-MS).
• Collected air samples using polyurethane foam passive samplers.
• Applied non-target screening and mass spectral interpretation for pollutant identification.

Main Results:

• Successfully identified 19 groups of halogenated pollutants, including chlorinated and brominated anisoles.
• Confirmed a previously undocumented polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) using a synthesized standard.
• Tentatively identified polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), organophosphate esters (OPEs), and agricultural contaminants.
• Observed distinct pollutant profiles between Hamilton and Sarnia, reflecting their unique industrial landscapes.

Conclusions:

• Advanced analytical methods can uncover a wider spectrum of airborne pollutants than standard monitoring.
• The presence of diverse halogenated compounds underscores the complexity of industrial air pollution.
• Broader and more comprehensive air quality monitoring strategies are essential for public health and environmental protection.