Passive sampling

Abstract

Passive sampling is based on free flow of analyte molecules from the sampled medium to a collecting medium as a result of a difference in chemical potentials. It can be used for the determination of both inorganic and organic compounds in a variety of matrices, including air, water and soil. The devices used for passive sampling are usually based on diffusion through a well-defined diffusion barrier or permeation through a membrane. Living organisms can also be used as passive samplers. In most cases, passive sampling vastly simplifies sampling and sample preparation, eliminates power requirements, and significantly reduces the costs of analysis. The technique is particularly suited to the determination of time-weighted average concentrations.