Fluorescence ambient NO(2) monitor with flashlamp pumping.

A pulsed xenon flashlamp unit was developed to provide a sensitive, economical, and compact device for determination of ambient NO(2) concentrations. The basic principles of operation are similar to a laser fluorescence monitor previously developed at the Aerospace Corporation that detects the atmospheric NO(2) by the fluorescence resulting from absorption of laser radiation. The prototype flashlamp unit has a sensitivity of 5 ppb for a 1.3-min integration time, a linear response, and provides a direct digital readout in real time. Results obtained in monitoring ambient NO(2) levels in the vicinity of the Aerospace Corporation are presented.