Metals in ambient air: A new sample type for the EnACT quality assurance scheme

Barry E. Tylee*, Owen T. Butler, Maria C. Freitas, Bruno Vieira, Renli Ma, Martina Schmeling

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

WASP and EnACT are UK proficiency-testing programmes for the analysis of air monitoring samples. Since the scheme's inception WASP has offered metals spiked onto filters at occupational levels. More recently, realistic filter samples such as welding fume have been introduced into the scheme. The development of a new CEN measurement method for metals in ambient air has highlighted the need for new filter-based QC materials. A multiport air sampler was used to collect large batches of near identical air filters from the ambient air. Representative filters were digested and analysed for As, Cd, Ni and Pb using ICP-MS and by TXRF. Results obtained were cross-checked against filters analysed by INAA and PIXE. It is shown that this sampler can produce batches of filters with an intra-batch precision of typically better than 10 %, which may be sufficient for use in future QA/QC initiatives involving the EnACT scheme.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationSymposium on Air Quality Measurement Methods and Technology 2004
Pages441-459
Number of pages19
Publication statusPublished - 2004
Externally publishedYes
EventSymposium on Air Quality Measurement Methods and Technology 2004 - Cary, NC, United States
Duration: 20 Apr 200422 Apr 2004

Publication series

NameSymposium on Air Quality Measurement Methods and Technology 2004

Conference

ConferenceSymposium on Air Quality Measurement Methods and Technology 2004
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityCary, NC
Period20/04/0422/04/04

Keywords

  • External quality assurance
  • ICP-MS
  • Metals in ambient air
  • Microwave assisted digestion
  • Multiport sampling system
  • WASP/EnACT PT schemes

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