ORGANIC EMISSIONS FROM AUTOMOBILE INTERIORS

The report gives results of an evaluation of six subcompact automobiles for the emission of vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) and other organics into the passenger compartment. Evaluated were a Ford Pinto, AMC Gremlin, GMC Vega, GMC Chevette, NMC Datsun 710, and VW Rabbit. VCM was quantified using charcoal cartridges interfaced with gas/liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry in the single-ion detection mode. VCM levels in the Pinto, Gremlin, Vega, and Chevette were less than the 50 ppb detection limit. With improved instrumental parameters, a 2 ppb detection limit was obtained. Under these conditions, VCM was not detected in the Chevette, but was detected in the Rabbit and the Datsun 710. Samples were taken for qualitative gas/liquid chromatography-mass spectrometric analysis of each automobile, using Tenax G.C. sorbent. This analysis produced a composite list of 147 organic compounds which were identified in the automobiles and not in the ambient air in the vicinity of the test. Another 36 compounds were tentatively identified.

  • Corporate Authors:

    Research Triangle Institute

    P.O. Box 12194
    Research Triangle Pk, NC  United States  27709

    Industrial Environmental Research Lab

    Research Triangle Pk, NC  United States  27711
  • Authors:
    • Zweideinger, R A
  • Publication Date: 1977-12

Media Info

  • Pagination: 90 p.

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 00181196
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Source Agency: National Technical Information Service
  • Report/Paper Numbers: EPA-600-7-77-149 Final Rpt.
  • Contract Numbers: EPA-68-02-1325
  • Files: TRIS
  • Created Date: Sep 14 1978 12:00AM