GABIE and Perkin Elmer passive sampler performance under fluctuating concentration conditions

Abstract

Passive sampling is an approved and accurate method for the assessment of organic compound exposure over long sampling time. This method could be very convenient for the short-time exposure assessment, but passive samplers have to be validated for this use. In this article, the behaviour of two commercial passive samplers (GABIE and Perkin Elmer) under fluctuant concentration conditions is studied. Artificial atmospheres were produced in the laboratory and passive samplers were exposed to different concentration profiles. Both theoretical and experimental results detailed in the paper underline the capability of these two samplers to assess pollutant exposure either when the concentration is unsteady or when the sampling time is short. Then, a suitable sampling strategy is proposed for the assessment of short-term exposure, based on the association of a direct reading photoionization device and passive sampler. © The Author 2008. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the British Occupational Hygiene Society.