Analysis of C6-C20 Hydrocarbons in Semi Rural Zones by High Resolution Gas Chromatography Coupled to Mass Spectrometry

ABSTRACT A technique of trace analysis on high resolution capillary columns is described. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of c 6 -c 20 hydrocarbons in ambient atmospheres of semi rural type are made. Different adsorbents have been tried in order to trap organic gases. The use of the Grob and Grob method for the enrichment of organic vapours on charcoal has succesfully been applied to a low volume sampling technique. High resolution glass capillary columns coupled to mass spectrometry enable qualitative analyses of more than sixty components in a single run. After identification, quantitative analysis could be performed by means of the co-chromatography of the sample with a calibrated standard mixture containing sixty organic compounds. Some limitations and efficiency problems of the methods are discussed.