Journal of Environmental Analytical Chemistry

Volatile Organic Compounds in Headspace over Electrical Components at 75 to 200°C Part 2. Analytical Response with Gas Chromatography-Differential Mobility Spectrometry for Airborne Vapor Monitoring.

Abstract

Eiceman GA, Paz ND and Rodriguez JE

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted into headspace over discrete electronic components including resistors, capacitors, diodes, transistors, and transformers were identified and quantitatively determined in Part 1 of this series using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Vapors emissions of VOCs were characteristic of each component and headspace concentrations increased with temperature and persisted with time in most instances. Technology suitable for routine continuous monitoring of air quality based on gas chromatography/differential mobility spectrometry (GC/DMS) was evaluated with the same electronic components here, Part 2 of this series. Distinctive patterns in plots of ion peak intensity, retention time, and compensation voltage were obtained from VOCs from resistors, capacitors, and insulation from wires of a transformer held at 200°C for ten minutes. Intensity of response and analytically rich information produced by GC/DMS suggest further utility also as an air quality monitor or smart smoke alarm with electronics-dense habitats in spacecraft or offices and industrial venues.