VOSCs Analysis through TD-GC-MS/FID/PFPD: Tools to Enhance Detectivity and Selectivity in Real Samples

Abstract

The present paper intends to discuss recent developments in detection and quantification of odorous compounds in real industrial gaseous emissions. In this work, the chemical characterization of industrial odours is carried out using an Agilent gas chromatograph (mod. 8890) coupled with three different detectors to obtain a more complete chemical characterization: a Mass Spectrometer (Agilent 5977B MSD), a Flame Ionization detector (FID, Agilent) and a Pulsed Flame Photometric Detector (PFPD, OI Analytical mod. 5833). This system (GC-MS/FID/PFPD) offers different significant advantages if compared with the classical analytical techniques currently adopted in the chemical characterisation of industrial odour mixtures. Applied to industrial case studies, it enables the selective detection and quantification of Volatile Organic Sulphur Compounds (VOSCs), even present in traces (ppb level) in complex gaseous mixtures, facilitating the identification of molecules responsible of odour harassment. This instrumentation represents a crucial development in enhancing the understanding of the chemical composition of odorous mixtures, demonstrating cost-effectiveness and time efficiency.