Measurement of Selected Volatile Organic Compounds at Three Locations in New Jersey during the Summer Season

Abstract

As part of the New Jersey project on Airborne Toxic Elements and Organic Substances (ATEOS), volatile organic compounds were measured at three urban locations in the state. Concentrations for the 25 selected contaminants were generally found in the 0.01-1.00' ppbv range, with the exception of toluene (2-5 ppbv) and benzene (1-2 ppbv). Day to day variations of measured aromatic VOC showed significant correlations at each site suggesting an area source emitter (motor vehicles), while there was little relationship between four chlorinated species. Synoptic and local meteorology influenced the peak daily concentration of the selected pollutants, raising levels 2-10 times seasonal averages. Average concentrations at the Newark and Elizabeth sites during three photochemical oxidant episodes increased by as much as 150%. © 1983 Air & Waste Management Association.