Development of in situ and near-real-time methods for measuring atmospheric trace gases

Abstract

The project intends to develop a method for the determination of gases in the atmosphere, seeking to use a set-up which is easy to transport and, therefore, can be used in the location where the problem exists. The determination should be made immediately after the end of the sampling phase and using a specific reaction with color formation. The determination will be undertaken colorimetrically, using LEDs as light source and equipment to read the analytical signal. For the development of the project it is intended to adapt a reaction to gaseous ammonia, possibly the Berthelot reaction which forms blue coloring. The project should be developed using the hanging drop technique, where a drop of solution is coupled to a device for reading of the absorbency variation directly in the drop. (AU)