Comparative Analysis of Atmospheric Volatile Organic and Sulfide Compounds in Lewis-Clark Valley and Surrounding Regions
Faculty Mentor Information
Nancy A. C. Johnston
Presentation Date
7-2017
Abstract
The objective of this study was to characterize, quantify, and compare sulfides and volatile organic compounds (VOCS) in air in the Lewis-Clark Valley (LCV) and surrounding areas. Lewiston, ID and Clarkston, WA are twin cities bordering North-Central Idaho and Southeastern Washington. This is primarily an agricultural region with a kraft paper pulp mill as the main industry. Previous studies and comparisons are lacking and the region may have elevated levels of VOCS and sulfur compounds due to the paper mill emissions. The main focus was on comparing the LCV with Hell’s Canyon, followed by two urban areas. Temporal and spatial comparisons were also made for LCV, including winter-spring seasonal differences and proximity from the main emission source. Air samples were collected onto sorbent tubes and then analyzed with a thermal desorption gas chromatograph mass spectrometer. With respect to location, air was determined to be cleaner in Hell’s Canyon compared to the other areas. In LCV the farther the samples were taken from emission sources, fewer compounds were detected and at lower concentrations. In general, concentrations were greater in the spring than in the winter. This study provides a baseline for a long term study of the region.
Comparative Analysis of Atmospheric Volatile Organic and Sulfide Compounds in Lewis-Clark Valley and Surrounding Regions
The objective of this study was to characterize, quantify, and compare sulfides and volatile organic compounds (VOCS) in air in the Lewis-Clark Valley (LCV) and surrounding areas. Lewiston, ID and Clarkston, WA are twin cities bordering North-Central Idaho and Southeastern Washington. This is primarily an agricultural region with a kraft paper pulp mill as the main industry. Previous studies and comparisons are lacking and the region may have elevated levels of VOCS and sulfur compounds due to the paper mill emissions. The main focus was on comparing the LCV with Hell’s Canyon, followed by two urban areas. Temporal and spatial comparisons were also made for LCV, including winter-spring seasonal differences and proximity from the main emission source. Air samples were collected onto sorbent tubes and then analyzed with a thermal desorption gas chromatograph mass spectrometer. With respect to location, air was determined to be cleaner in Hell’s Canyon compared to the other areas. In LCV the farther the samples were taken from emission sources, fewer compounds were detected and at lower concentrations. In general, concentrations were greater in the spring than in the winter. This study provides a baseline for a long term study of the region.