Abstract
A simple technique is described which allows the use of readily available short-term stain tubes for 8-hr monitoring. The 8-hr sample is collected on a Perkin-Elmer diffusive sampler and subsequently thermally desorbed through the appropriate stain tube. The versatility of the basic technique is explored, and an experimental validation of the method for chlorinated hydrocarbons is reported. In order to satisfy the criterion that the system should have a detection range compatible with exposure levels around the recommended 8-hr time-weighted average limit, the uptake on the diffusive sampler should be proportional to exposure and desorption from it should occur efficiently and at a rate compatible with the performance of the available stain tube. If these criteria are met, then the technique can form the basis of a simple, versatile and low cost method of personal monitoring for over 40 gases and vapors.