A dual channel gas chromatograph for atmospheric analysis of volatile organic compounds including oxygenated and monoterpene compounds

Abstract

A dual channel gas chromatograph with flame ionisation detectors has been used extensively for analysis of volatile organic compounds in the atmosphere and forms the basis of two monitoring instruments contributing VOC data to the World Meteorological Organisation – Global Atmosphere Watch network. Recent modifications to the methodology have broadened the scope of the instrument; to incorporate measurements of selected monoterpenes, and achieve improved accuracy in the measurement of oxygenated volatile organic compounds. Analysis of selected monoterpenes has been achieved without any significant loss of resolution of the non-methane hydrocarbons or oxygenated compounds. Quantification of 64 different VOCs of varying functionalities are reported with detection limits in the range 1–5 parts per trillion. Here we present a summary of the instrumental and calibration details for the methodology, which continues to be used on many field projects, along with a discussion of the associated measurement uncertainties.