Use of electrically enhanced aerosol plasma spectroscopy for real-time characterization of beryllium particles

Meng Dawn Cheng, Robert W. Smithwick, Ray Hinton

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

The best warning of human exposure to elevated toxic aerosol particles is a monitor that can provide a near-real-time alarm function. Use of surrogate indices such as particle-number concentration, mass concentration, and/or other How-diagnostics variables is ineffective and could be costly when false positives do arise. We have developed a field-portable system specifically for monitoring beryllium particles in the air in near real-time. The prototype monitor is installed on a two-shelf handcart that can be used in workplaces involving beryllium extraction, machining, and parts fabrication. The measurement involves no sample preparation and generates no analytical waste. The operating principle of the monitor is electrically enhanced laser-induced electrical-plasma spectrometry assisted with aerosol-focusing technology. Performance data of the monitor indicate a dynamic range spanning over four orders of magnitude, and the monitor is capable of detecting an airborne beryllium concentration of 0.05 μg m-3. In reference, the Department of Knergy (DOE) standard for beryllium is 0.2 u.g m-3 within an 8-h average, while the Occupational Safety and Health Administration standard for beryllium is 2 μg m-3. In addition, the monitor is capable of simultaneous detection of multiple elements using an Echellette spectrometer if needed. The capability of simultaneous detection provides a convenient means for positive identification and possible quantification of multiple elements in near real time. We present the instrument development and calibration data and results from field demonstration conducted at a DOE facility in Oak Ridge, Tennessee.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationBeryllium Sampling and Analysis
PublisherAmerican Society for Testing and Materials
Pages81-91
Number of pages11
ISBN (Print)0803134991, 9780803134997
StatePublished - 2006
EventSymposium on Beryllium Sampling and Analysis - Reno, NV, United States
Duration: Apr 21 2005Apr 22 2005

Publication series

NameASTM Special Technical Publication
Volume1473 STP
ISSN (Print)0066-0558

Conference

ConferenceSymposium on Beryllium Sampling and Analysis
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityReno, NV
Period04/21/0504/22/05

Keywords

  • Aerosolized beryllium
  • Airborne particles
  • Electrically enhanced laser-based measurement
  • Real-time monitoring

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