Validation and use of a new diffusive sampler for ozone assessment in the Lazio Region, Italy

Abstract

To monitor the effect of control measures for ozone it is desirable to map the concentrations for this pollutant at regional level, in agreement with the aims of the European Framework Directive on ambient air quality assessment and management. In principle, passive sampling represents a perfect tool in the light of the Directive to map a particular area for a given pollutant and to characterise those areas where the limit values are expected to be exceeded. A simple, inexpensive diffusive sampler for ozone has been developed. The sampler was tested in a chamber study and in a field trial in the Lazio Region, where it was carried out a monitoring campaign for ozone together with sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, also measured by using a diffusive sampling technique. The results obtained are reported and discussed. The sampler is capable of reliable measurements of ozone at common levels of a polluted atmosphere in urban and rural settings yielding average concentration levels over one month and beyond.