Real-time detection of molecular structures and metal components within airborne particles using concurrent Raman and Spark emission spectroscopy

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

Graphical Abstract

Editor:

• Jingkun Jiang

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This study was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 52074274) and the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities (Grant No. 2021YCPY0107).