Author(s)

F. De Santis, C. Vazzana, B. D’Angelo, T. Dogeroglu, S. Menichelli & I. Allegrini

Abstract

Validation and use of a new diffusive sampler for ozone assessment in the Lazio Region, Italy F. De Santis1, C. Vazzana1, B. D'Angelo1, T. Dogeroglu2, S. Menichelli1 & I. Allegrini1 1 CNR -Istituto Inquinamento Atmosferico, Italy 2 Environmental Engineering Department, Anadolu University - Turkey Abstract To monitor the effect of control measures for ozone it is desirable to map the concentrations for this pollutant at regional level, in agreement with the aims of the European Framework Directive on ambient air quality assessment and management. In principle, passive sampling represents a perfect tool in the light of the Directive to map a particular area for a given pollutant and to characterise those areas where the limit values are expected to be exceeded. A simple, inexpensive diffusive sampler for ozone has been developed. The sampler was tested in a chamber study and in a field trial in the Lazio Region, where it was carried out a monitoring campaign for ozone together with sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, also measured by using a diffusive sampling technique. The results obtained are reported and discussed. The sampler is capable of reliable measurements of ozone at common levels of a polluted atmosphere in urban and rural settings yielding average concentration levels over one month and beyond. 1 Introduction As a response of the European Fifth Action Programme targeting for the protection of the public health and ecosystems, the European Commission published the Directive 96/62/EC (the so-called Air Quality Directive) [l]. In this framework there are several incentives for developing diffusive air sampling techniques as a tool for indicative measurements. Conventional on-line ozone measurement methods (typically based on ultraviolet absorption) are expensive, need maintenance and skill. Simpler methods for assessing air quality may offer a cost effective alternative to conventional techniques for mapping the air quality distribution as required in the Directive.

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