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Sampling on site
What sampling techniques are there? And how do you know which of these methods is the right one to answer your question?
Sampling in bags
Air is often collected in a sampling bag. There are different types, made from different materials, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. We can perform analyses on any type of bag.
- Not reusable
- Fragile
- Shelf life of most VOC limited to 24 hours
- Not suitable for reactive components (eg mercaptans)
- Artifacts depending on bag material
- Need of extra sampling material
- Challenging logistics with a large number of samples
Sampling with canisters
Canisters can be used to take air samples, in which almost all VOC can be collected.
- Very easy to use
- Robust
- Reusable
- Shelf life of most VOC up to 1 month
- Also suitable for reactive compounds
- Optional flow rate controller for sampling over time
- Challenging logistics with a large number of samples
Use of adsorption cartridges
When it is not possible to use air bags or canisters as a sampling method, adsorption cartridges are an alternative. We have different types of adsorption cartridges, with specific adsorption capacities.
- Reusable
- Shelf life for most VOC up to 1 month
- Less suitable for certain reactive components
- Need extra material
- Specific knowledge required
- Logistically interesting for large numbers of samples
"Samples are often taken in sampling bags, after which we are also asked to analyse mercaptans in addition to VOC. Then it is always a pity that the results are not representative for the sampled source because an air bag is not suitable for collecting mercaptans."
Can I also take air samples myself and send them for analysis?
Off course, our trained employees can come and take air samples on site. In unexpected situations, they have the experience to make quick adjustments to make sampling possible.
But if you have experience with taking air samples yourself, or if you want to take up the challenge yourself, it is certainly possible to take samples yourself. Good preparation is recommended to guarantee that the sample medium used is suitable for the desired analyses. We are therefore happy to discuss the project with you beforehand, so that sampling and VOC analyses are properly coordinated. A short training course can also be provided, so that the air is sampled correctly.
How can we help?
Do you have questions about VOC analysis? We can be reached via the channels below or leave a message on our contact page.