Marchwood develops new method for monitoring low level acrolein
13th October 2021Marchwood has developed a new method for monitoring low level acrolein using GC/QQQ, increasing the division’s testing capability and improving the accuracy of results.
‘Our ability to develop new methods reflects our position as the UK’s leading specialist laboratory for independent occupational hygiene analysis,’ said Jenny Wraith, Business Development Manager at Marchwood. ‘With a short-term exposure limit of 0.05mg/m3 and a long-term exposure limit of 0.12mg/m3, acrolein poses a real challenge when compared with other aldehydes. Our expertise in the occupational hygiene sector has enabled us to solve this issue using GC/QQQ, which is up to 1000 times more sensitive than standard single quadrupole GC/MS.’
By using an XAD tube treated with 2-hydroxymethyl piperadine (SKC part no: 226-118), a stable derivative can be measured at levels equivalent to 0.017mg/m3 on a 3L sample, and 0.001mg/m3 on a 48L sample. This extra capability facilitated by the more sensitive GC/QQQ instrumentation means that results are more accurate at lower exposure levels, enabling our customers to protect their people more thoroughly.
‘Ultimately, this new method helps workplaces and occupational hygienists to remain compliant whilst safeguarding employees and customers,’ continued Jenny. ‘Cawood is always focussed on finding new and improved ways to meet customer requirements. This new method is the latest in a long list of recent innovations designed to enhance our services while supporting a safer, healthier planet.’
View a full list of our occupational hygiene services here.