Improved sampling and analytical method for airborne carbon disulfide measurement in the workplace

Summary An improved sampling and analytical method for airborne carbon disulfide (CS₂) both in the laboratory and in a rayon viscose manufacturing plant is described. A tube-type diffusive sampler (ATD) packed with solid Spherocarb was used for airborne CS₂ collection. The ATD was then thermally desorbed and analyzed by (GC-MS). A standard curve range of 0.69 to 103.4 μg was established with correlation coefficient (r)>0.998. Desorption efficiency was 100% mean recovery 97.8% and coefficient of variation<10%. The limit of detection (LOD) was 0.21 μg and limit of quantitation (LOQ) 0.69 μg. Temperature and humidity effects were not significant. There was no influence from tube direction to exposure gas stream. The uptake rate was stable over an 8h period. Even after 90 repeated usages, the uptake rate still remained quite stable. ATD samples were stable at <4°C for at least 2 weeks. Field validation data showed a strong linear correlation (r>0.97) between the proposed method and the current method for fixed-point samples. The proposed method can provide a specific, sensitive, convenient, and reliable tool for assessment of occupational exposure to CS₂. Using this method to assess CS₂ exposures gives findings comparable to those of the traditional method with respect to accuracy, precision, and effects of environmental interference.