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Isomeric analysis of BTEXs in the atmosphere using beta-cyclodextrin capillary chromatography coupled with thermal desorption and mass spectrometry.

Yassaa N, Brancaleoni E, Frattoni M, Ciccioli P

Faculty of Chemistry, University of Science and Technology Houari Boumediene, USTHB, BP 32, El-Alia, Bab-Ezzouar, 16111 Algiers, Algeria. nyassaa@mailcity.com

An analytical method capable of determining trace levels of BTEX-aromatics (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, m-, p- and o-xylenes) in the atmosphere with as high resolution as possible has been developed. The method is based on the preconcentration of air samples using a multibed tube (Carbopack C, Carbograph 1) at ambient temperature, followed by thermal desorption, and analysis of aromatic species by a beta-cyclodextrin capillary chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. The resolution achieved was sufficient for individual separation of BTEXs as well as m- and p-xylenes. The BTEX-ratios have been determined in an air tunnel and in on-road, suburban and rural forest atmosphere. The ethylbenzene/m-xylene ratios could provide a deep insight into anthropogenic related NMHC patterns at different locations and under different meteorological conditions and may reflect photochemical processes in the best way.

Published 3 April 2006 in Chemosphere, 63(3): 502-8.
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