Development of sampling devices for gaseous atmospheric tracers

An air sampler was developed to be used to collect over protracted periods and to facilitate the measurement of atmospheric tracer compounds released in meteorological diffusion studies. Tests were conducted to determine the absorptive capacity of various sorbents potentially suitable for collecting such electronegative tracer compounds as SF6 and CF3SF5. A field practical sampler, incorporating the best sorbent, a high surface-area coconut charcoal, was then designed and subjected to laboratory tests. The effects on sampler performance of various atmospheric influences, such as composition, pollutants, temperature, and tracer loading and level were determined.