To obtain timely data for the purpose of air quality assessment, air quality trend reporting
Tedlar® bags and adsorbent tubes are the mediums used in this method of sampling
VOCs (volatile organic compounds), Semi-VOCs, light hydrocarbons C1-C6, and
sulphurs in ambient air are used.
Tedlar® sample bags are a convenient and accurate means of sampling gases and
vapors when concentrations are expected to be higher (>20ppmv) than the detection
limits of common analytical instruments.
Sorbent tube sampling is an appropriate monitoring method for volatile organic
compounds (VOCs) in ambient air at 0.5 to 25 parts per billion (ppbv) concentration
levels.
This method adheres to the requirements of the current Air Monitoring Directive (AMD)
drafted by Alberta Environment in 1989. In some cases the limits and specifications
exceed the requirements of the current AMD and subsequent amendments. It should be
considered that the current and any future amendments or drafts of the AMD will be
used as the benchmark for requirements and criteria for ambient air monitoring practices
conducted in the Province of Alberta. Information used to write this procedure was also
taken from sources identified in the reference section.