A sustainable method for the determination of BTEX in the atmosphere by Headspace GC-FID

The aim of the present work is the development of an analytical method for the determination of BTEX from a new radial passive air sampler using headspace gas chromatography with flame ionization detection (HS-GC-FID). Instrumental parameters are optimized with the aid of Design- Expert software. The factors having the greatest influence on analytical performance, such as equilibrium time and equilibrium temperature in the headspace sampler, and the split ratio for the injection, were evaluated. The analytical responses evaluated are the peak areas of the target compounds. The adsorbent material used for pollutant sampling is also investigated in order to identify the material providing the best instrumental responses, with particular attention devoted to its regeneration and subsequent reuse. The developed methodology provides a safer and greener approach to environmental monitoring by avoiding the use of carbon disulfide, known to be a highly toxic and carcinogenic solvent, thus eliminating the need for solvent purchase, disposal and operator exposure.