Metrohm Process Analytics presents a new member to their portfolio: the Metrohm AeRosol Sampler “MARS.” A sample preparation device that transfers aerosol particles from an air stream to the aqueous phase.
With the intensification of air pollution, the monitoring of the chemical composition of aerosols (particulate matter «PM») is becoming more and more important. However, traditional filter membrane sampling methods are time-consuming and labour-intensive, and the collected samples need manual pre-treatment. The usual sampling period is several days, which cannot provide higher temporal resolution monitoring for rapidly changing air pollution.
The principle of the aerosol sampler is simple. Air is continuously entering the MARS through the Wet Rotating Denuder (WRD) to remove the interfering gases. The ambient air, stripped of its gaseous water-soluble components, enters the Steam-Jet Aerosol Collector (SJAC). Super saturated steam is introduced, causing the aerosols to grow into larger, heavier droplets. Further on the air passes through a cyclone, collecting the particles in water by inertial separation. The resulting solution of dissolved ionic aerosol species is continuously sampled at the bottom of the SJAC for further analysis.
Applications for MARS:
- Aerosol monitoring inside buildings
- Emission monitoring
- Monitoring ambient air
- Air measurements in tunnels
- Quality control in clean rooms
- Monitoring of heavy metals (e.g. Cr(VI))
Further information available:
