Grant: Engage Grants Program

This project involves the development of direct sample introduction and on-line measurement strategies for rapid analysis of volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds (VOCs and SVOCs) in complex environmental samples, including flue gases and waste waters. It is aimed at the development of on-line analytical techniques for the rapid measurement of pollutants associated with specific industries, such as total reduced sulfur compounds in pulp and paper operations. The work extends the use and application of a membrane introduction mass spectrometry (MIMS) interface based upon coaxial thermal desorption strategies targeted specifically for the real-time measurement of reduced sulfur compounds that are associated with air-quality degradation and odour complaints. The project involves parametric studies and characterization of membrane transport properties of specific pollutants. enhanced by a thermal gradient to enhance membrane transport of SVOCs. This project will involve a review and critical analysis of current monitoring practices and performance requirements (e.g., detection limits, turn-around times, quality control practices) associated with the industry standards, including new greenhouse gas emission accounting. The project will develop thermal desorption and tandem mass spectrometric protocols in an effort to establish 'faster, better, cheaper' analytical measurement strategies with the capability of real-time continuous atmospheric monitoring. This project is relevant to the field of environmental analytical chemistry and will assist industry address environmental and process monitoring requirements.