ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the design of the study, as well as information on the analytical procedures. Airborne toxic element and organic substances (ATEOS) was the first study to focus primarily on the biologically active fraction of the atmospheric aerosol and volatile organic compounds; therefore, the variables measured and sites studied were carefully selected during the design of the program. The ATEOS study has specific objectives related to the detection of the presence of toxic and carcinogenic pollutants, criteria were established for the identification and selection of each urban sampling site location used in the project. The Elizabeth ATEOS sampling site was situated on the roof of a two-story building, which is the headquarters of the Elizabeth Board of Education. The different program elements were required in order to maintain proper operation of the four sampling sites, develop efficient sample transfer protocols, conduct timely analysis of the various chemical species measured, and ultimately to have centralized management of the data.
