EVALUATION OF AN INTENSIVE SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS METHOD FOR CARBON-MONOXIDE

This paper describes a portable, low-cost whole air sampler capable of collecting 12 1-L samples in tedlar bags and using a single ''D'' cell for power. The results are presented from two tests of an intensive sampling and analysis method for measuring ambient carbon monoxide (CO) concentrations in urban areas using this sampler. The method is evaluated in comparison with an approved continuous CO analyzer, in intercomparisons of the results of re-analysis of the samples, and by examination of the results from co-located samplers. The precision of the analytical method was found to be +/-0.30 ppmv. The precision of the sampling method was found to be +/-0.73 ppmv and therefore is the limiting factor in the method's overall precision. These values are sufficient to verify attainment of National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) levels in urban areas. Improvements in the sampler and analytical procedure are discussed.