Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds (PAC) represent a broad category of chemicals containing two or more aromatic rings, produced at temperatures above 900°C. Many PAC chemicals are carcinogenic. The lighter, more volatile PAC members have a distinctive naphthalene-like (mothball) odour and are less toxic. In contrast, the heavier fraction, consisting of non-volatile, odourless, and highly carcinogenic Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs), includes chemicals such as pyrene, fluorene, benzo[b]fluoranthene, and benzo[a]pyrene.
LCS Laboratory Inc. offers specialized testing to detect total PAC levels in the air of fire-damaged buildings, providing accurate and reliable results to assist with damage assessments.
PAC Screening Test for Non-Volatile Components
LCS Laboratory has developed a highly sensitive screening test based on OSHA Method #58 for coal tar pitch volatiles. This method involves collecting samples on glass fibre filters and analysing them using ultra-sensitive fluorescence analysis. The test achieves an overall sensitivity of 0.0005 mg/m³ or better for the total sum of PACs in a 200 L air sample.
Industrial Sources of PACs
- Asphalt Fumes: Safety standard is 0.500 mg/m³.
- Coal Tar Pitch Volatiles: Regulated at 0.200 mg/m³ (Ontario, 2013).
Currently, no specific guidelines exist for PAC levels in residential air, but LCS Laboratory provides effective solutions for assessing PAC contamination.
Sampling Process
- Equipment: Sampling is conducted using a Gilian pump with a cassette.
- Interferences: Substances such as wood dust and some industrial air fresheners may cause false positive results.
- Strategy:
- Collect a reference sample in a clean area to establish baseline PAC levels.
- Take additional samples in smoke-damaged areas, ranging from the least to the most damaged.
Interpretation of Laboratory Results
- Results Exceed Industrial Exposure Limit: Professional decontamination is required. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) must be used.
- Readings Between 1% and 50% of Industrial Exposure Limit: Smoke damage abatement is necessary.
- Higher PAC Levels in Damaged Areas Compared to Clean Areas: Indicates PAC presence. Loose dust and contaminants should be removed, and additional cleaning is recommended.
- Contaminated Area Results Similar to Clean Area: No significant PAC contamination is detected.
How to Request a Quote
To request a formal quote, please email the following details:
- Full Name
- Shipping Address
- Contact Phone Number
- Number of Samples: Specify the number of rooms you wish to test. Each room requires a separate sampler (e.g., basement, kitchen, garage = 3 samplers).
- Sampling Date: Equipment will be delivered in advance.
- Turnaround Time: Standard results are available within 10 business days. Rush services are available for an additional fee.
LCS Laboratory Inc. is here to support your project. Contact us for reliable air sampling solutions for PAC contamination in fire-damaged buildings. Stay safe!
