New Mass Spectrometer Technology for Analysis of Biogenic Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

University Of Colorado At Boulder, Boulder CO

Investigators

Abstract

This project involved the development and application of a proton-transfer-reaction mass spectrometry (PTR-MS) for on-line detection and identification of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for the analysis of primary and secondary biogenic carbonyls in complex VOC mixtures released from vegetation. The new instrument, a proton-transfer ion trap mass spectrometry (PT-ITMS) instrument, will be developed for used in both field and airborne platforms for continuous, simultaneous analysis of important VOCs and their carbonyl oxidation products. VOCs released from vegetation may have a major impact on the oxidative capacity of the atmosphere and in the formation of ozone and aerosols.