Benzene is a highly toxic VOC that poses serious environmental and health risks. It contaminates air and water, persists in soil, and can accumulate in wildlife, disrupting ecosystems. Health effects include an increased risk of leukemia, blood disorders, neurological issues, and respiratory problems. Benzene is regulated to limit exposure in workplaces and the environment to protect public health.
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For more than 35 years, ION Science has been a trusted leader in the gas detection industry, known for high-quality, reliable instruments. Offering a wide range of gas detectors, including personal, portable, and fixed instruments, ION Science has established itself as a global leader in the manufacture and supply of accurate and reliable gas detection solutions.
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In wastewater treatment plants, they detect hazardous gases like methane, hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, chloroform, and bromodichloromethane, preventing health risks and explosions. They monitor gases used in water disinfection, such as chlorine, and track emissions like VOCs and greenhouse gases for environmental protection.
Gas detectors are also critical for worker safety in confined spaces, ensuring proper air quality and operational efficiency.
Sources of VOCs in Water and Wastewater Applications
• Industrial discharge (chemical plants, refineries, etc.)
• Leaching from landfills and contaminated sites.
• Leaking underground storage tanks (e.g. petroleum/gasoline).
• Agricultural runoff (contaminated with solvents and fuels).
• Water treatment processes (such as disinfection byproducts).
BTEX Gases
Benzene, Toluene, Ethylbenzene, and Xylene are a group of VOCs commonly found in water and wastewater. These compounds are generally associated with petroleum products and industrial solvents, making them common contaminants in areas with oil refineries, chemical plants, or leaking fuel storage tanks.
BTEX gases pose significant risks to both the environment and human health, making their removal from water and wastewater systems critical.
Benzene
Toluene
Toluene is a VOC that can cause significant environmental and health issues. It contaminates air and water, affecting aquatic life and contributing to air pollution. Health risks include damage to the central nervous system, causing symptoms like headaches and dizziness, as well as potential liver and kidney damage with long-term exposure. Regulatory measures aim to control toluene levels to minimise these impacts.
Ethylbenzene
Ethylbenzene is a VOC that poses environmental and health risks. It contaminates air and water, impacting aquatic life and contributing to air pollution. Health concerns include respiratory issues, potential liver and kidney damage, and possible long-term effects on the nervous system. Regulatory controls are in place to limit exposure and mitigate these risks.
Xylene
Xylene, a very harmful VOC, can lead to environmental and health issues. It contaminates air and water, affecting aquatic ecosystems and contributing to air pollution. Health risks include respiratory problems, neurological effects such as headaches and dizziness, and potential liver and kidney damage with prolonged exposure. Regulatory measures help manage and reduce these risks.
The ION Science Solution: Tiger XT
Photoionisation Detection (PID) instruments are highly effective tools for detecting VOCs in various settings, including water and wastewater treatment applications. While traditionally used for air monitoring, PIDs can also play a pivotal role in VOC detection in water and wastewater environments when paired with appropriate methods such as air stripping or purge-and-trap techniques.
Tiger XT and Tiger XT Select are highly valuable assets for detecting VOCs in water and wastewater treatment applications, offering real-time, sensitive, and cost-effective monitoring.
• Large Internal Gas Table with over 750 VOCs and toxic compounds
• Fast Response Time & Clear Down of <2 seconds, one of the fastest and most accurate on the market.
• Humidity Resistant & Anti Contamination Design thanks to our Patented Fence Electrode technology, which ensures optimal performance and extends run time
• Intrinsically Safe and meets ATEX, IECEx, North American and Canadian Standards
• IP65 Ingress Protection against a range of conditions and weather temperatures
• Selective Benzene Detection when benzene pre-filter tubes are attached
• Long Rechargeable Battery Life of up to 24 hours
• Fast Response Time & Clear Down of <2 seconds, one of the fastest and most accurate on the market.
• Humidity Resistant & Anti Contamination Design thanks to our Patented Fence Electrode technology, which ensures optimal performance and extends run time
• Intrinsically Safe and meets ATEX, IECEx, North American and Canadian Standards
• IP65 Ingress Protection against a range of conditions and weather temperatures
Review
In summary, Tiger XT and Tiger XT Select are excellent for detecting VOCs in water and wastewater treatment applications, providing real-time, sensitive, and cost effective monitoring. When used in conjunction with techniques such as air stripping or purge-and-trap to transfer VOCs from water to air, they enable effective detection for a broad range of VOCs. Their portability, ease of use and affordability makes them the premium choice for operators looking to ensure regulatory compliance while safeguarding the environment and public health.
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