Importance of Reliable Results for Monitoring Air Quality
Along with the legalization of marijuana comes changes to our overall air quality as well. A study by the Desert Research Institute and the Washoe County Health District reveals that Cannabis plants release biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) that contribute to air pollution and smog when they accumulate in the air. This poses concerns for human health and necessitates protective measures for workers in cannabis grow facilities. The study highlights the need for further research to understand the extent of the health effects and addresses this emerging issue in the cannabis industry.
Here at SilcoTek, we specialize in advanced coatings and surface treatments, which can contribute to improving and monitoring air quality through various applications. Our coating technology can provide solutions like:
-
Emissions Control: SilcoTek's coatings can be applied to critical components within emission control systems, such as catalytic converters or exhaust gas sensors. By enhancing the efficiency and durability of these components, SilcoTek's coatings help reduce emissions of pollutants from vehicles and industrial processes, thereby improving air quality.
-
Sensor Performance: Silcotek Coatings can improve the performance of sensors used in air quality monitoring systems. By reducing contamination and enhancing accuracy, these coatings contribute to more reliable and precise measurements of air pollutants. This helps in identifying and addressing air quality issues more effectively.
-
Industrial Applications: SilcoTek's coatings can be utilized in industrial processes where air pollutants are generated. By applying their coatings to components or equipment involved in these processes, we can help minimize the release of harmful substances into the air, thus reducing air pollution.
Selecting the Right Surface for VOC and Air Quality Analysis
Selecting inert and durable materials for sampling critical flow path surfaces can be a key factor in successful analysis. Mr. Stefan (S.T.) Persijn of VSL, Dutch Metrology Institute, (in conjunction with the German Meteorological Office, DWD) presented a comparative study of adsorptive properties of various materials commonly used in VOC analysis.*
The study exposed various tube surfaces to methanol at 50 and 100°C and measured adsorption rate of the surfaces. Results show that an inert coating like SilcoNert® coated stainless steel prevented adsorption and reaction with VOCs in critical flow paths. The study summary, below, highlights the comparative results:*
The untreated stainless steel readily adsorbs active compounds with complete loss of methanol. Electropolishing will smooth the surface and reduce overall surface area but adsorption is still significant. PFA and PEEK tubing require careful management of the surface in order to achieve acceptable results. Sulfinert® coated stainless steel does not adsorb active compounds because the inert silicon CVD surface bonds to and diffuses into the stainless steel substrate, preventing interaction with reactive sites. The sputter depth profile (below) characterizes the diffusion zone of a typical SilcoTek CVD coating.
Commonly Coated Analytical Instruments
Be sure to coat the entire flow path to prevent selective adsorption by reactive surfaces. Not coating a fitting or fritted filter can significantly impact analytical results and can cause calibration failures, increased system maintenance, false positive/negative results, frequent retesting, and potential regulatory compliance issues. Here are some commonly coated analytical instruments:
-
Chromatography Components: SilcoTek coatings can be applied to chromatography components such as columns, liners, and fittings. These coatings enhance inertness, reduce adsorption, and improve the performance and reliability of chromatographic separations.
-
Mass Spectrometry (MS) Components: SilcoTek coatings are used on MS components, including ion source parts, inlet liners, and transfer lines. These coatings improve the thermal stability, reduce sample adsorption, and enhance the sensitivity and accuracy of MS analyses.
-
Gas Sampling Systems: SilcoTek coatings can be applied to gas sampling system components like canisters, valves, and fittings. These coatings enhance inertness, prevent contamination, and improve the accuracy and reliability of gas sampling and analysis.
-
Sensors and Detectors: SilcoTek coatings are utilized on sensors and detectors for various applications, such as gas sensors, chemical sensors, and electrochemical sensors. These coatings improve the sensor's selectivity, sensitivity, and response time, leading to more accurate and reliable measurements.
-
Spectroscopy Accessories: SilcoTek coatings can be applied to accessories used in spectroscopic techniques, such as infrared (IR) cells, cuvettes, and sample holders. These coatings enhance chemical resistance, prevent sample adsorption, and improve the overall performance and longevity of spectroscopic analyses.
Whether you're monitoring air quality for cannabis or for humans, accurate results are imperative. SilcoTek's coating technology can help to provide fast, reliable results. If you have questions about SilcoTek's coating services, please reach out to our technical service team to set up a consultation.
References:
Conrad, B., & Starbuck, L. (2019, November 12). Study shows cannabis might be impacting air quality. KUNR Public Radio. https://www.kunr.org/public-health/2019-11-07/study-shows-cannabis-might-be-impacting-air-quality
Gonzales, S. (2023, May 25). The importance of air quality in cannabis cultivation. Cannabis Science Tech. https://www.cannabissciencetech.com/view/the-importance-of-air-quality-in-cannabis-cultivation
