This paper describes the field evaluation of a sampling and analytical method for the quantity of airborne hexavalent
chromium (Cr6+) in the industrial areas, such as Sihwa and Banwol. Ambient measurements were performed by
using the cellulose filter during the four seasons (October 2006 to June 2007). The determination of hexavalent chromium
was carried out by ion chromatography. Performance validations, including method detection limit, relative
standard deviation, and recovery percent, were also investigated.
The mean concentrations of Cr6+ in Sihwa and Banwol were 0.767 and 0.796 ng/m3, respectively, which are similar
to those of other foreign industrial areas. The seasonal variations of Cr6+ levels were not quite different, which
implies that the chromium was continuously emitted from the industrial sources throughout the year. The concentration
variations between total chromium and Cr6+ have also shown the similar pattern, suggesting that these components
originate from the same sources. The concentration of Cr6+ was found to be 0.7 to 2.4% of the total chromium.
From these results, the approach using the cellulose filter may be suitable to collect Cr6+ in the ambient air.