Detection of alcohols using UV-ion mobility spetrometers

An ion mobility spectrometer (IMS) equipped with a 10.6eV low pressure gas discharge lamp was usually employed for the continuous detection of ethanol, 1-propanol, 2-propanol, 1-butanol and 2-methyl-1-propanol. For demonstration purposes, the quantitative response of the UV-ion mobility spetrometer (UV-IMS) was determined for ethanol and 1-propanol in the concentration range between 1 and 100ppmv. The calculated reduced mobilities of the peaks in the spectra of the selected alcoholic substances were compared with the reduced mobilities of the peaks determined using the IMS including a radioactive ionization source and with values taken from literature. Finally, the scope of applicability of an UV-IMS for the detection of alcohols is discussed.