Measurement of Atmospheric PAHs in Brisbane, Australia Using Active and Passive Samplers
In order to investigate spatial and temporal trends in semivolatile organic pollutants, a number of passive air samplers have been developed and used worldwide. The present study aimed to validate the use of a PUF-based sampler for monitoring atmospheric PAHs. This was done by sampling with both active and passive samplers, deployed concurrently at the same sites. Active sampling is suggested by regulators as the accepted sampling method for monitoring of PAHs in the ambient air and only a limited number of studies have looked at comparing results obtained through both methods. Sampling was conducted for varying durations and at different sites across Australia. Locations chosen were representative of specific land uses such as urban, rural, industrial and pristine. Results from both active and passive samplers were compared, and possible causes of the observed variation are discussed.