Photoionization Detectors
Photoionization Detectors (PIDs) are used for the rapid and accurate detection of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in gaseous form. Although the PID does not identify the individual compounds, it provides an accurate measurement of the total amount of VOCs present. Photovac provides two Photoionization Detectors for VOC monitoring, the 2020ComboPRO for general purpose monitoring and the 2020ppbPRO for measurement of lower levels of gas detection.
What compounds can be detected by a Photoionization Detector?
Photoionization detectors can detect a wide range of compounds. A compound is detectable if its ionization potential is lower than the strength of the lamp in the PID (10.6 eV or 11.7 eV). The following are common compounds that are detected using photoionization detectors:
Aromatics - Benzene, Toluene, Naphthalene
Unsaturated Hydrocarbons - Acetylene, Ethylene, 1,3-Butadiene
Chlorinated Hydrocarbons - Vinyl chloride, Chloroform, Trichloroethylene, Methylene chloride
Ketones - Acetone, Methyl ethyl ketone, Methyl isobutyl ketone
Alcohols - Ethanol, Isopropanol, n-Butanol
Organic Fuels - Gasoline and jet fuels, which are mixtures of hundreds of different compounds including aromatics, are well detected.
Please note: This list provides examples of the classes of compounds detectable by the 2020ComboPRO. Please contact Photovac Technical Support for details on specific compound detection.
What is the difference between the two Photoionization Detectors that Photovac offers?
The 2020ComboPRO has a measurement range of 0.1 to 10,000 parts per million, while the 2020ppbPRO has a measurement range of 10 ppb to 40 ppm. Further, the 2020ComboPRO has the capability of providing benzene measurements with an optional benzene pre-filter.
Who would use the 2020ComboPRO?
The 2020ComboPRO is a general purpose VOC PID Monitor which measures the total amount of VOCs present. It is used in Environmental applications for site characterization and remediation, in Industrial Hygiene and Safety applications for workplace exposure assessments, and as a HAZMAT VOC Detector.
Where would I use the 2020ppbPRO?
The greater sensitivity of the 2020ppbPRO makes it ideal for indoor air quality and confined space gas monitoring.
How difficult is it to use a Photoionization Detector?
The 2020 family provides a large graphic display with several types of information simultaneously displayed. It also has exceptionally simple calibration and easy operation.
Is the product rugged; will it stand up to field use?
The product is very rugged. Part of the Intrinsic Safety certification process includes tests to withstand the physical abuse encountered in normal field operations.
How long will the PID work on a full battery charge?
All fully charged Photovac portable PIDs will operate for at least eight hours.
How reliable are these Photoionization Detectors?
If they are properly maintained the instruments provide accurate and reliable measurements.
Does Photovac provide a warranty on their Photoionization Detectors?
Photovac provides a one year warranty on all of its products for defects in material or workmanship.
How can I use a PID for Meth Lab cleanup?
Many states require VOC testing to provide reasonable assurance that common solvents are not present to ensure a building is not posing a health and safety hazard and is ready for occupancy. Both 2020 products meet the requirements for VOC measurements for meth lab cleanup activities.
If you would like to see more information about Photovac's Photoionization Detectors, please see the following pages:
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For other Photovac applications, please see:
Portable Hand Held GC
VOC Analyzer
Gas Leak Detection