Abstract
Objectives: The aim of this study was to develop an air sampling and analytical method for estimating worker exposure to linear carbonate solvents and to evaluate the method. Methods: The target substances were three linear carbonates: DMC, DEC, EMC. GC/FID was used for sample analysis. Laboratory experiments were conducted to determine desorption solvents and sample capacity, and to evaluate storage stability, accuracy, and precision. Results: Coconut Shell Charcoal (CSC, 100/50 mg) was used as the air sampling media, and a desorption solvent of 5% methanol/95% dichloromethane was selected. Recommended sampling capacities were 1~11 ℓ for DMC, 1~18 ℓ for DEC, and 1~24 ℓ for EMC. The stability of three linear carbonates was demonstrated over 30 days in a refrigerator (4℃). Detection limits were determined as follows: DMC 0.26 ㎍/sample, DEC 0.24 ㎍/sample, and EMC 0.25 ㎍/sample. The total coefficient of variation was calculated as DMC 0.064, DEC 0.079, and EMC 0.07. Conclusions: This sampling and analysis method is suitable for estimating personal exposure to linear carbonates in the workplace.