Chemiluminescence measurement of atmospheric ozone with an oil-coated paper filter

Abstract

Chemiluminescent reaction between peroxyacetyl nitrate and ozone with triethyl amine (TEA) vapor can be used to monitor atmospheric concentration. Further studies questioning the stability of TEA led to the discovery of chemiluminescence in the reaction of ozone with lubricating oil-coated cellulose paper filters. A prototype atmospheric monitor was constructed to test this phenomenon. For highest sensitivity, pressure in the reaction vessel and sample gas flow rate are 460 torr and 1.2 1/min. Blank values for photon counting were obtained by ozonizing synthetic dry air. The corrected spectrum of the light from the reactive impregnated filter was obtained in the 300 to 600 nm range. Two peaks are visible at 400 and 500 nm. With the use of an optimum nozzle, the reliability of the measurement was within 3%. The responses are linear with the ozone concentration varying between 0 and 0.19 ppm. The sensitivity of the detector appears to be satisfactory for use as an ozone monitor in the atmosphere.