Abstract
This study introduces an innovative real-time instrumentation system that integrates Raman spectroscopy and Spark Emission Spectroscopy (SES) for the quantitative analysis of molecular structures and metal components in airborne particles. The study employs a nozzle-impact-based aerosol micro concentrator to enrich airborne particles for analysis. Experimental evaluations were conducted using laboratory-configured aerosols containing Cr2O3, Ni2O3, ZrO2, CuO mixed with SiO2, substances of significant concern in occupational health, notably in mining, metallurgy, and chemical industries. Results show a high linear correlation, with an R2 value exceeding 0.937, between spectral peaks and analyte mass. The concentration limit of detection (LOD) for SiO2, Zr, Cu, Cr, and Ni during a 10 min sampling period, with a flow rate of 2 L/min, were found to be 14.0, 64.6, 80.1, 13.8, and 5.5 μg/m3, allowing for precise quantification of the aerosol components. The plasma density and temperature were characterized for various samples with different deposition masses. The findings suggest that the developed system has the potential to provide real-time and accurate measurements of hazardous aerosol components, making it a useful tool for occupational health and environmental monitoring.
Copyright © 2024 American Association for Aerosol Research
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Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).