N itrogen dioxide (NO2) concentrations along Grand Avenue and East Avenue in Waukesha, Wisconsin were determined for a period of approximately two months through the use of Palmes-type Passive Diffusion Tubes (PDTs). The goal was to investigate correlations between traffic patterns and local NO2 concentrations. This work is relevant because of the significant adverse health effects caused by breathing NO2. This study was complimented by four 1-day (12-hour) studies of NO2 and ozone using portable electrochemical monitors. Counts of the number and types of vehicles passing the testing sites were also made while monitors were active.  These monitors allowed for real-time measurement of these pollutants and possible correlation of these measurements with actual vehicle travel records. The PDTs were assembled using the dipping method of a 50:50 v/v solution of triethanolamine (TEA) and acetone, to adsorb the NO2 from the air. The tubes were analyzed via UV-Vis spectrophotometry. Accuracy and precision of these Palmes-type PDTs was determined with separate measurements at a testing site operated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources in Milwaukee, WI.

Roadside pollution: Accuracy of nitrogen dioxide passive diffusion tubes and correlations of traffic patterns to nitrogen dioxide levels

247th National Meeting (2014)

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