Classroom course calendar

464 Analytical Methods for Air Quality Standards

(Revised at time of delivery)

5-day lecture course
4 CEUs

Student Materials:
Analytical Methods (PDF 194 pp 70,787 KB)
Designated Reference (PDF 36 pp 9,072 KB)
Technical Assistance (PDF 82 pp 18,857 KB)
Transfer Standards (PDF 200 pp 51,240 KB)

Course Description
This course is designed for chemists and technicians responsible for the sampling and analysis of ambient air. Calibration of continuous analyzers is covered. This laboratory course emphasizes the reference and equivalent methods for air quality standards, including Sulfur Dioxide (SO2), Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2), Ozone (O3), and Carbon Monoxide (CO). Quality assurance programs are also introduced. Laboratory procedures and principles include the nondispersive infrared method for CO; the coulometric, flame photometric, and UV fluorescent methods for sulfur compounds; the chemiluminescent method and UV calibrations procedure for O3; and the chemiluminescent method for NO2. Students also learn the use of dynamic calibration systems to calibrate continuous air monitoring equipment and to determine performance specifications of the various instruments. A scientific calculator is helpful for preparing laboratory reports.

Major topics

LABORATORY

• Equivalent methods for SO2
• Reference method for NO2 and CO
• Reference and equivalent methods for O3

• Permeation tube systems
• Dynamic dilution systems

• Zero drift, range, precision, rise time, lag time, and linearity

• CO (instrumental)

Desired Background
Successful completion of Course 435 or familiarity with basic laboratory techniques, including preparation and analysis of test atmospheres, calibration, and the use of common flow-measuring devices, and calculations involving the ideal gas laws.