Abstract
For the comprehensive characterization of ambient air concentrations of a broad spectrum of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) an analytical method is described, consisting of adsorptive enrichment, thermal desorption without cryofocusing, and capillary gas chromatographic separation. The method was applied during two-week measuring campaigns in winter and summer 1995, and in the winter of 1996. Long-term sampling was carried out at sampling points in residential areas in the suburbs and near the city center of Leipzig. About 70 VOCs – mainly hydrocarbons from propene to hexadecane – were identified both by GC-MS and chromatographic retention data and quantified after external calibration. Mean values of VOC concentrations obtained during the sampling periods are reported and discussed with regard to the topographical location of the sampling points in the Leipzig area, seasonal variations, and possible emission sources.
Similar content being viewed by others
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Additional information
Received: 1 April 1997 / Revised: 2 June 1997 / Accepted: 2 June 1997
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Knobloch, T., Asperger, A. & Engewald, W. Volatile organic compounds in urban atmospheres: Long-term measurements of ambient air concentrations in differently loaded regions of Leipzig. Fresenius J Anal Chem 359, 189–197 (1997). https://doi.org/10.1007/s002160050558
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s002160050558