Real-time PCB monitoring using time-of-flight mass spectrometry with picosecond laser ionization

The study demonstrates the applicability of laser ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry for real-time measurement of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Picosecond 266-nm laser light ionization reduced fragmentation and provided very high PCB detection sensitivity. This high sensitivity has advantages in terms of real-time monitoring capability as compared to the conventional GC-ECD or GC-MS methods, which require at least several days for the analysis of PCBs. Detection sensitivity of under 0.01 mg/Nm(3) was achieved with a 1-min measuring time; this sensitivity is superior to the exhaust gas control guideline of 0.15 mg/Nm(3) by a factor of 10. A prototype PCB monitoring device has been developed and tested in a pilot PCB treatment plant. The 1-min detection time represents a substantial advance in the monitoring of exhaust gas and the workplace atmosphere in accordance with safety regulations.