Proxy Methods and Compounds for Workplace Monitoring of Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons

摘要

A proxy compound of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) is a measurable compound that represents a very large complex group of PAH compounds that are found in nearly all real life samples. In studies of biological impact, the proxy should be the limiting toxicant in terms of dose-effect. The use of benzo(a)pyrene as a direct proxy in the study of PAH compounds is evaluated. Carbon monoxide as an indicator gas for monitoring in confined areas and as a proxy compound for PAH is evaluated. A fluorescent spot test for rapidly estimating general levels of PAH in organic solvents is discussed as an indirect proxy method. A direct proxy method using a room temperature phosphorescence technique for detection of naphthalene is presented. Non-real time techniques involving chromatography and spectroscopy are also discussed. (ERA citation 05:026437)