Air Permitting
Ball, Trever
New Developments in CEMS Analysis using Quantum Cascade Laser Spectroscopy
Wednesday 10:15 AM
What sets Emerson's Quantum Cascade Laser (QCL) technology apart is its ability to provide fast, high-resolution spectroscopy for detecting and identifying a variety of molecules in the mid-infrared wavelength range. When combined with Tunable Diode Laser (TDL) spectroscopy, a single instrument can now offer insights into both the near and mid-infrared ranges of spectroscopic light. QCL technology is based on Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy (TDLAS), which uses tunable diode lasers and laser absorption spectrometry to measure the concentration of species in gaseous mixtures. Compared to other measurement techniques like Paramagnetic Detectors (PMD) and Chemiluminescence, TDLAS provides multi-element detection capabilities, high accuracy, a wide dynamic range, low maintenance requirements, and a long life cycle. By utilizing lasers as spectroscopic light sources, high-resolution spectroscopy (HRS) is achievable, with QCLs granting access to the valuable mid-infrared (MIR) part of the electromagnetic spectrum. These advanced laser technologies are essential in various applications such as environmental monitoring, industrial process control, and emissions reduction. For more information or specific inquiries about Emerson's Quantum Cascade Laser analyzers, consult the experts at 4C.
Swisher, Eric
Regulatory Update for Petrochem: Impacts of the Revisions to 40 CFR Part 60 – Appendix B/F to the Petrochem Industry
Wednesday 9:30 AM
As of May 30, 2023, all continuous emissions monitoring systems (CEMS) required to meet the data quality objectives of 40 CFR Part 60 – Appendix: Performance Specification (PS-2) and Appendix F, Procedure 1 [Appendix F (P1)] must do so by completing the daily validation by administrating the reference gases nearest the sampling probe tip at practicable. The impacts are most likely be evident on the H2S and Total Sulfur (TS) CEMS installed for 40 CFR Part 60, Subpart Ja. These changes are requiring the submittal of alternative monitoring petitions (AMPs) to allow an alternative monitoring methodology. The focus of this presentation will be to describe the overall changes to PS-2 and Appendix F (P1) and process currently ongoing with U.S. EPA to address these changes for CEMS installed on refinery fuel gas systems and flares.
Abou-Ghanem, maya
Ambient Air Quality Monitoring via Mobile Vans and PFAS detection
Wednesday 1:45 AM
Volatile organic and inorganic compounds (VOCs and VICs) can be released into the atmosphere from natural and human sources, impacting air quality and posing risks to health and the environment. Accurate and real-time measurement of these compounds is crucial for effective air quality management. TOFWERK's Vocus CI-TOF-MS instruments are designed to analyze VOCs and VICs with exceptional sensitivity, detecting levels as low as sub-parts-per-trillion for air quality monitoring. This presentation will focus on the use of TOFWERK's Vocus CI-TOF instruments for two key topics: mobile air quality monitoring and detection of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The presentation will showcase the use of these instruments in a mobile laboratory near solid waste landfills in Colorado, as well as their ability to detect and quantify PFAS at ultra-trace levels in gas-phase samples. This technology offers new opportunities for precise tracking and management of emission sources for environmental and public health protection.
Berkowitz, David
EPA Method 325B; It’s Not Just for Refineries Anymore?
Wednesday 1:00 AM
In 2015, the EPA introduced the Petroleum Refinery Sector Rule which included benzene fenceline monitoring provisions and established EPA Method 325A and 325B as the governing work practice documents for monitoring. These methods have since been utilized in regulating other industries and are being adopted by several States for their own rulemaking efforts.
While passive tube fenceline monitoring has primarily focused on benzene thus far, recent developments such as EPA's Environmental Justice initiative and proposed fenceline monitoring requirements in State and Federal Bills suggest that EPA Methods 325A and 325B may soon be used to monitor additional pollutants. This presentation will explore the changing regulatory landscape and the necessary steps to implement these methods for monitoring pollutants beyond benzene.
Fowler, Brian
Continuous Emissions Monitoring Systems (CEMS) Fundamentals
Tuesday 8:45 AM
The presentation will delve into the essentials of continuous emissions monitoring systems (CEMS), exploring the regulatory requirements, equipment, design, control, and reporting software. Various types of CEMS will be discussed, such as fully extractive cold/dry, hot/wet, dilution extractive, and in-situ, along with hardware components like probes, sample lines, coolers, filters, analyzers, controllers, and data acquisition and handling systems (DAHS). Perspectives will be shared by experts from M&C TechGroup North America, Environmental Systems Corporation, and Alliance Source Testing. Key topics covered include CEMS, DAHS, probes, coolers, filters, analyzers, FTIR, TDL, opacity, mercury, and particulate monitors.
Johnson, Jeremy
Common CEMS RATA Failures and Risks - Temporary CEMS Set up and Challenges
Tuesday 8:00 AM
This presentation will discuss the significance of regular audits and thorough pre-project planning for Continuous Emission Monitoring Systems (CEMS). He will explore the reasons behind audit failures and the potential risks involved. This presentation will delve into the objectives of CEMS Certifications, different types of certification and testing requirements, as well as performance specifications that outline certification event methodologies and standards for various monitoring systems. Additionally, the complexities of temporary CEMS setup and the challenges that may arise will be addressed.
Berkowitz, David
Ethylene Oxide Concerns and Low Level Measurement Challenges
Tuesday 1:00 AM
In December 2016, the USEPA made significant changes to the ethylene oxide (EtO) lifetime exposure concentration associated with cancer risk, lowering it to 0.02 ug/m3. This raised concerns about EtO levels in residential areas near industrial sources and led to new emissions regulations at the State level to protect public health.
This shift in regulations has prompted laboratories, technology companies, and field service providers to update their detection limits for EtO.
During this presentation, we will examine the evolution of various methods for measuring EtO, including traditional canister methods, real-time monitoring, mobile methods, and Continuous Emission Rate Monitoring Systems (CERMS). We will discuss the benefits and challenges of each technique.