Preliminary investigations on the levels of volatile organic compounds in air samples by thermal desorption - Gas chromatography in Bursa, Turkey

Abstract

Air pollution problems in big cities with crowded traffic are obvious and exhaust fumes from motor vehicles are the main pollutants in urban cites. Benzene, toluene, ethlybenzene and xylene (o-, m-, p-), but especially benzene because of its carcinogenic effect, should be monitored to take the necessary actions. In this research, atmospheric concentrations of benzene, toluene and xylenes have been analysed with tube-type thermally desorbable samplers and thermal desorption - gas chromatography. Different locations have been chosen for measuring the VOC levels in Bursa. This study is a preliminary investigation as a part of a strategy for air monitoring.