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Error evaluation of methyl bromide aerodynamic flux measurements

January 1, 1997

Methyl bromide volatilization fluxes were calculated for a tarped and a nontarped field using 2 and 4 hour sampling periods. These field measurements were averaged in 8, 12, and 24 hour increments to simulate longer sampling periods. The daily flux profiles were progressively smoothed and the cumulative volatility losses increased by 20 to 30% with each longer sampling period. Error associated with the original flux measurements was determined from linear regressions of measured wind speed and air concentration as a function of height, and averaged approximately 50%. The high errors resulted from long application times, which resulted in a nonuniform source strength; and variable tarp permeability, which is influenced by temperature, moisture, and thickness. The increase in cumulative volatilization losses that resulted from longer sampling periods were within the experimental error of the flux determination method.

Publication Year 1997
Title Error evaluation of methyl bromide aerodynamic flux measurements
DOI 10.1021/bk-1997-0652.ch012
Authors Michael S. Majewski
Publication Type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Series Title ACS Symposium Series
Index ID 70019301
Record Source USGS Publications Warehouse
USGS Organization California Water Science Center