The Use of Measurement Programmes and Models to Assess Concentrations Next to Major Roads in Urban Areas

This paper shows that monitoring campaigns in association withmodelling, particularly detailed roadside modelling, are auseful and cost effective method of assessing air quality. Itproposes that an approach based on detailed monitoringassociated with concurrent meteorological data can be used incombination with a roadside model to assess concentrations at other locations near a road and in other weather conditions. Plans for improving air quality can also be assessed in simpleways. The need for complex models based on detailed emissioninventories is avoided.Two examples from streets in London and Paris are presented inwhich measurements of CO, NO_x and volatile organic compoundshave been made. The measurements are interpreted usingcorrelations between pollutant concentrations and with windspeed, and by using the USEPA CALINE4 model. It is demonstratedthat air quality measurements can be used to assess the validityof road traffic emission factors.     

Determining the agricultural ammonia immission using bark bio-monitoring: comparison with passive sampler measurements

Bark samples of spruce, pine and oak trees were collected at two sites in southern Bavaria which are characterized by high agricultural ammonia emissions. The samples were taken using a recently developed bark sampling device which removes a defined layer of the bark. The bark was then analysed for ammonium concentration in order to reflect the environmental ammonia immission. The measured bark concentrations decreased with rising distance between the sample trees and the ammonia source. This applied (i) to measurements inside a closed forest stand ranging from forest edge with high immission to forest interior with much lower immission, and (ii) to the open field where single-standing trees were sampled. Comparing the ammonium concentrations among the three different tree species revealed significant correlations. Thus, it could be shown that old spruce trees are as usable for bark bio-monitoring as the traditionally used pine and oak trees. The ammonium concentrations of the bark were significantly correlated to measurements taken by ammonia passive samplers at the same locations. These results indicate that bark samples may be used for a standardised monitoring of airborne ammonia load. A major advantage of the technique is the determination of the long-term accumulative ammonia load using a single measurement.     

Field intercomparison of diffusive samplers for measuring ammonia

Agricultural production systems are recognised as a major source of atmospheric ammonia. Deposition of ammonia and ammonium may contribute to undesired changes in oligotrophic ecosystems. The continuous measurement of atmospheric ammonia requires expensive and sophisticated techniques and is performed only in a very restrict number of ambient air stations in Europe. Therefore, the application of passive samplers, which have the advantage of being easy to handle and cost-efficient, is useful. In the past the comparability of different passive samplers must be considered as rather scarce. In a joint European project under the leadership of the GSF-Forschungszentrum für Umwelt und Gesundheit, Neuherberg, in 1997 a comparison of different passive ammonia monitoring methods was carried out in a prealpine rural site near Garmisch-Partenkirchen. It was considered valuable to include not only well established systems but also methods still being developed. For the comparative test ten working groups with different methods took part. A wet annular denuder system, which has been developed by the Netherlands Energy Research Foundation for on-line measurement of atmospheric ammonia, served as reference of passive methods. The experiment, which started in June and finished in December, showed that most of the passive samplers fulfil the requirements and can be recommended for further measurements. Additional measurements of meteorological parameters were performed to check the influences of different weather conditions on passive sampling.     

Extending the use of air quality indices to reflect effective population exposure

Although there are tendencies to develop a single common index which would describe an overall air quality status within an area, constructed from a choice of measurements of individual pollutants, indices describing individual pollutants themselves have several potentials which can be used in ways which are not possible with pollutant concentrations. On the case of Belgrade, Serbia, we investigated possibilities of using such indices for comparisons between pollutants, characterization of monitoring sites, and extending their use to include elements of population exposure. A methodology of adjusting the results obtained at monitoring stations located in severe pollution conditions, like street canyons, is proposed and used.     

Organic carbon causes interference with nitrate and nitrite measurements by UV/Vis spectrometers: the importance of local calibration

Compared with sporadic conventional water sampling, continuous water-quality monitoring with optical sensors has improved our understanding of freshwater dynamics. The basic principle in photometric measurements is the incident light at a given wavelength that is either reflected, scattered, or transmitted in the body of water. Here, we discuss the transmittance measurements. The amount of transmittance is inversely proportional to the concentration of the substance measured. However, the transmittance is subject to interference, because it can be affected by factors other than the substance targeted in the water. In this study, interference with the UV/Vis sensor nitrate plus nitrite measurements caused by organic carbon was evaluated. Total or dissolved organic carbon as well as nitrate plus nitrite concentrations were measured in various boreal waters with two UV/Vis sensors (5-mm and 35-mm pathlengths), using conventional laboratory analysis results as references. Organic carbon increased the sensor nitrate plus nitrite results, not only in waters with high organic carbon concentrations, but also at the lower concentrations (< 10 mg C L^?1) typical of boreal stream, river, and lake waters. Our results demonstrated that local calibration with multiple linear regression, including both nitrate plus nitrite and dissolved organic carbon, can correct the error caused by organic carbon. However, high-frequency optical sensors continue to be excellent tools for environmental monitoring when they are properly calibrated for the local water matrix.     

Influence of temperature changes on ambient air NO<Subscript>x</Subscript> chemiluminescence measurements

Users of automatic air pollution monitors are largely unaware of how certain parameters, like temperature, can affect readings. The present work examines the influence of temperature changes on chemiluminescence NO(x) measurements made with a Thermo Scientific 42i analyzer, a model widely used in air monitoring networks and air pollution studies. These changes are grouped into two categories according to European Standard EN 14211: (1) changes in the air surrounding the analyzers and (2) changes in the sampled air. First, the sensitivity tests described in Standard EN 14211 were performed to determine whether the analyzer performance was adapted to the requirements of the standard. The analyzer met the performance criteria of both tests; however, some differences were detected in readings with temperature changes even though the temperature compensator was on. Sample temperature changes were studied more deeply as they were the most critical (they cannot be controlled and differences of several tens of degrees can be present in a single day). Significant differences in readings were obtained when changing sample temperature; however, maximum deviations were around 3% for temperature ranges of 15°C. If other possible uncertainty contributions are controlled and temperature variations with respect to the calibration temperature are not higher than 15°C, the effect of temperature changes could be acceptable and no data correction should have to be applied.     

Direct on-filter assay of subtilisin-type proteolytic enzymes for rapid analysis of analyte captured from the workplace atmosphere

A simple assay for some proteolytic enzymes has been developed which can be performed directly on the surface of a cellulose nitrate filter used to capture the analyte during workplace monitoring for health and safety purposes. Following air sampling the analysis is performed on the filter which is retained within the air sampler. This involves two steps: first, a 15 min incubation in which the captured enzyme is dissolved and then digests an alkaline-phosphatase-labelled antibody immobilised as a small dot on the surface of the filter; and second, is a 10 min incubation with substrate solution, which follows an in situ wash under a vacuum. During the incubation colour develops on the spot at the location of the immobilised enzyme antibody conjugate. The intensity of the spot can be assessed visually within the sampler to ascertain the presence or absence of captured enzyme, or alternatively quantitative results can be obtained using an optical scanner. The limit of detection is 5 ng per filter for subtilisin (20 ng for visual discrimination between this standard and the zero). The assay is stable to the effects of ambient air sampling at 31 min(-1) for 18 h.     

Rayleigh scattering measurements of several fluorocarbon gases

Integrating nephelometers are commonly used to monitor airborne particulate matter. However, they must be calibrated prior to use. The Rayleigh scattering coefficients (b(RS), Mm(-1)), scattering cross sections (σ(RS), cm(2)), and Rayleigh multipliers for tetrafluoromethane (R-14), sulfur hexafluoride, pentafluoroethane (HFC-125), hexafluoropropene (HFC-216), 1,1,1,2,3,3,3,-heptafluoropropane (HFC-227ea), and octafluorocyclobutane (C-318) are reported from measurements made using a Radiance Research M903 integrating nephelometer operating at λ = 530 nm and calibration with gases of known scattering constants. Rayleigh multipliers (±90% conf. int.) were found to be 2.6 ± 0.5, 6.60 ± 0.07, 7.5 ± 1, 14.8 ± 0.9, 15.6 ± 0.5, and 22.3 ± 0.8 times that of air, respectively. To the best of our knowledge, these are the first reported values for R-14, HFC-216, HFC-125, and C-318. Experimental accuracy is supported through measurements of values for SF(6) and HFC-227ea which agree to within 3% of previous literature reports. In addition to documenting fundamental Rayleigh scattering data for the first time, the information presented within will find use for calibration of optical scattering sensors such as integrating nephelometers.     

Elimination of ammonia interference in acidimetric determination of sulphur dioxide

Ammonia interference in acidimetric determination of sulphur dioxide can be eliminated by separate determination of ammonia in the same sample and by correction of results. However, with this addition the procedure is no longer simple.To avoid two separate determinations a selective absorption of ammonia from the air stream before it enters the absorbent solution for SO₂ has been considered. Several absorbents used to remove or to collect ammonia for subsequent determination were tested in the laboratory. Whatman No. 1 (or 41) filter papers impregnated with 3% oxalic acid solution in ethanol proved to be the most efficient for ammonia retention without an effect on SO₂. In a comparative testing over 52 days at a permanent sampling station no statistically significant difference was observed between two trains with impregnated filters and a third train where correction for ammonia, separately determined in the same sample, was performed.Regression analysis, however, showed that the results obtained in the third train are more dispersed due to accumulated errors in two analyses at low concentration levels further aggravated by conversion of ammonia to equivalent SO₂ concentrations. The removal of ammonia with impregnated filters gives better precision with less inconvenience and is therefore preferable.     

The use of sensor arrays for environmental monitoring: interests and limitations

Continuous, in situ monitoring of air, water and land quality is fundamental to most environmental applications. Low cost and non-invasive chemical sensor arrays provide a suitable technique for in situ monitoring. Their ability and performance under realistic conditions is discussed in this paper. Published studies report promising results despite a number of limitations that are associated with both the technology itself and its application in ever changing ambient conditions. Early investigations include the analysis of single substances as well as odour and wastewater organic load monitoring. Reported applications typically highlight the sensitivity of the currently available sensors to changes in temperature, humidity and flow rate. Two types of approaches are recommended to deal with these effects: either working under fixed experimental conditions or measuring the external parameters to numerically compensate for their change. The main challenge associated with the use of non-specific sensor arrays lies in establishing a relationship between the measured multivariate signals and the standards metrics that are traditionally used for quality assessment of gas mixtures. For instance, odour monitoring requires calibration against olfactometric measurements while investigations of wastewater samples still need to be correlated with organic pollution parameters such as BOD, COD or TOC. On the other hand, results obtained in the field have demonstrated how sensor arrays can be readily used as simple alarm devices or as early warning systems based on a general air/water quality index.     

南京及周边区域亚青期间大气监控预警走航观测研究

2013年8月,为了解亚青会期间南京及周边地区大气污染物的来源、时空分布和输送规律,江苏省环境监测中心联合中科院大气物理所等15家单位,开展了为期一个月的夏季联合观测,监测区域覆盖江苏沿江8市以及安徽部分地区。该次联合观测,江苏首次利用空气质量数值预报模式指导开展走航观测,实现了动静、水平与垂直相结合的立体式巡航观测,并初步揭示了现阶段江苏省大气污染主要特征,观测结果直接服务于亚青空气质量会商,为保障南京市空气质量提供技术支撑,同时为2014青奥会空气质量保障积累经验。     

On the evaluation of box model results: the case of BOXURB model

In the present paper, the BOXURB model results, as they occurred in the Greater Area of Athens after model application on an hourly basis for the 10-year period 1995-2004, are evaluated both in time and space in the light of observed pollutant concentrations time series from 17 monitoring stations. The evaluation is performed at a total, monthly, daily and hourly scale. The analysis also includes evaluation of the model performance with regard to the meteorological parameters. Finally, the model is evaluated as an air quality forecasting and urban planning tool. Given the simplicity of the model and the complexity of the area topography, the model results are found to be in good agreement with the measured pollutant concentrations, especially in the heavy traffic stations. Therefore, the model can be used for regulatory purposes by authorities for time-efficient, simple and reliable estimation of air pollution levels within city boundaries.     

纳氏试剂法检测水中低浓度氨氮存在问题分析及方法改进探讨

针对采用《水质氨氮的测定纳氏试剂分光光度法》(HJ 535—2009)测定低浓度氨氮时存在的测不准问题,研究了药剂投加量、反应时间等因素对检测结果的影响,认为低浓度氨氮下的显色反应速度过慢是测定结果不准的原因,并据此提出利用强碱调节pH的方法加速反应进程。改良后的方法可以在0.2～1.2 mg/L氨氮浓度范围内呈现良好的线性关系,相关系数r为0.999 4。该方法具有较高的准确度和精密度,有效扩大了低浓度氨氮的检测范围,在实际样品检测中的回收率为102.5%～115.0%,可为准确测定水环境和饮用水中的氨氮浓度提供一种简便易行的手段。     

深圳大运会期间环境控制措施对气溶胶特性的影响分析

利用全自动太阳辐射计,对深圳世界大运会主场馆附近大气特性开展了连续观测(2011-08-11-2011-09-03)。获得了大运会期间(12 d)和大运会后(11 d),气溶胶光学厚度(AOD)等参数的变化情况,并对气溶胶光学和微物理特性进行了分析。结果表明,大运会期间440 nm处的AOD平均值为0.273,大运会之后的AOD平均值为0.983,大运会期间较大运会之后AOD平均值有显著降低。粒子谱分布等气溶胶微物理特性参数的分析还表明, AOD降低主要是由于细粒子含量的减少,说明环境控制措施对于空气质量产生了较好的改进效果。     

卫星遥感在重大活动空气质量保障中的应用

以2016年G20峰会重大活动保障工作为例,简述了卫星遥感技术近年来在大气环境空气质量监测取得的进展以及重大活动空气质量保障会商机制和组织架构,重点分析了如何充分应用大气遥感产品服务于重大活动空气质量保障工作。指出,现有卫星遥感技术已具备服务重大活动空气质量保障工作的要求,其产品可应用于空气质量监测、生物质燃烧遥感监测,同时大气遥感产品相对客观,可以成为重大活动空气质量保障的客观参考标准,为今后类似保障工作提供借鉴。     

Air Quality and Monitoring Strategy in the Helsinki Metropolitan Area, Finland

The Helsinki Metropolitan Area Council (YTV) is responsible for air quality monitoring in the Helsinki area. Air quality has been monitored periodically since the late 1950s. An automatic SO2 monitoring network was constructed in 1975 and TSP measurements were added in 1978. Since then the network has been expanded and currently five automatic multicomponent stations form the basis of the network monitoring SO2, NO, NO2, CO, PM10 and O3 concentrations. Manual TSP and PM10 measurements are also conducted. Mobile monitoring units are also being used as well as special measurement campaigns. The effects of air pollution on nature are studied in bioindicator monitoring. An air quality index is used in order to inform the public of the current air quality situation. Changes in air quality are reflected in monitoring strategy. SO2 concentrations have decreased in the past two decades. Annual averages in 1995 were at or below 5 µg/m3. Traffic is the major source for pollutants even though catalytic converters have lowered traffic emissions somewhat. The highest annual average NO2 concentration at an urban site was 49 µg/m3 in 1995, and there has been no clear change in NO2 levels. There has been a decreasing trend in CO concentrations. Maximum annual TSP and PM10 averages in 1995 were 92 and 32 µg/m3, respectively. The highest average lead concentration was 0.01 µg/m3. Elevated concentrations are experienced from time to time. During the spring daily TSP and PM10 concentrations can go up to around 300 and 150 µg/m3, respectively. This is caused by resuspension mainly due to street sanding. Also a major winter NO2 episode occurred in December 1995. The highest hourly NO2 concentrations reached 400 µg/m3.     

Passive sampling in combination with thermal desorption and gas chromatography as a tool for self-assessment of chemical exposure

Diffusive samplers for monitoring of air quality are user-friendly devices that can normally be operated by the user himself. Hence these samplers are suitable for self-assessment. Practical and work organisational aspects of self-assessment of chemical exposure were studied in different occupational settings. It was found that the diffusive sampler used in these studies, the Perkin-Elmer tube in combination with thermal desorption, worked well for the purpose and could be correctly handled by the individuals using it. The results from self-assessments agreed well with expert measurements carried out by an occupational hygienist. However, in order to obtain a sustainable system of self-assessment strong organizational support is needed.     

Urgent problems of improving background air pollution monitoring systems

For more than 12 years, systematic observations of background air pollution have been carried out in accordance with the WMO Programme using the network of USSR stations located in sparsely populated settlements and in a number of neighbouring cities. The parameters involved include spectral radiation measurements, determination of chemical composition of precipitation and the concentrations of a number of atmospheric pollutants. Analysis of the data obtained allows conclusions to be drawn on the capabilities of the current system and to evaluate methods of improving it.In order to further improve the monitoring system, it is recommended that the system should perform the same observations on air pollution and precipitation as carried out by other international and national programs, and also to create centralized laboratories to deal with the analysis of samples from these monitoring stations. Additionally, solid sorbents are emerging as an effective means of sampling certain air pollutants. They may be sent by post, they increase the accuracy of measurements and allow air sampling intervals of up to 7–10 days, thus synchronizing this period with the interval of precipitation sampling.     

博物馆室内微环境中碱性气体的被动采样方法研究

针对博物馆微环境中的碱性污染气体-氨气，采用自行研制的被动采样器，建立了一套适合博物馆馆藏文物保存环境中氨气含量分析的被动采样-离子色谱检测方法，应用于博物馆的实地采样分析，通过与主动法采样对照，获得了被动采样器在博物馆微环境中氨的吸收系数，从而获得采样点空气中氨气的浓度，为博物馆文物保存环境监测提供了可行方法。     

A passive sampling method to determine ammonia in ambient air

Ambient ammonia concentrations, mainly originating from agricultural activities, have increased in the last few decades in Europe. As a consequence, critical loads on oligotrophic ecosystems such as forests and mires are greatly exceeded. Monitoring of ambient ammonia concentrations is necessary in order to investigate source-receptor relationships. Measuring ambient ammonia concentrations continuously with high time resolution is very expensive and cost-efficient systems are required. Where time resolution is of minor importance, several cost-effective systems, mainly dry denuder and passive samplers, can be applied. In this paper the Zürcher passive sampler, a diffusive sampling system, is presented. It is a Palmes type sampler with an acidic solution as absorbent and is easy to handle. It was tested at 46 sites in Switzerland over one year. The average concentration in ambient air was 2.5 microg m(-3) +/- 0.4 microg m(-3). The average of the blank values were 0.21 microg m(-3). The detection limit (double the standard deviation of the blank values) was 0.36 microg m(-3). Three passive samplers were exposed at each site and each period. The mean standard deviation of these triplicate measurements was 9.5%. Compared with a discontinuous tubular denuder system and a continuous annular denuder system, the deviation was less than 10%. The Zürcher passive sampler is a useful and cost-efficient tool to determine long-term average ammonia concentrations (one- to four-week periods) in ambient air for mean concentrations above 1 microg m(-3).