Chemical and Biological Engineering ETDs

Publication Date

Fall 12-17-2022

Abstract

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are of great interest and the subject of much research, as they can be used in various applications. Preconcentrating this class of analytes is necessary as they can be elusive with simple sampling techniques. VOCs are often captured using sorbents in thermal desorption tubes as preconcentrates prior to analysis, commonly gas chromatography mass spectroscopy (GCMS). There are gaps in knowledge in behavior of materials used as sorbents i.e., if they will retain an analyte of interest appropriately. In this research I seek to eliminate speculation and unknown variables of analyte and sorbent combinations by creating a predictive database. This database models how analytes will elute through specific preconcentrator sorbents, using retention index. The predictions from this database are then interrogated with laboratory experimentation. This database may be used as a general tool that can be applied to any analyte, improving understanding of single beds.

Keywords

Sorbent, Preconcentration, Volatile Organic Compounds, Gas Chromatography, Mass Spectroscopy, Thermal Desorption Unit

Document Type

Thesis

Language

English

Degree Name

Chemical Engineering

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Chemical and Biological Engineering

First Committee Member (Chair)

Fernando Garzon

Second Committee Member

Joshua Whiting

Third Committee Member

Philip Miller

Fourth Committee Member

Lok-Kun Tsui

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