The objective of this special purpose air toxic monitoring project is to gain a better understanding of air toxics in the Carlsbad area that may contribute to ground-level ozone concentrations. Benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene (BTEX) are the target for this monitoring effort. BTEX is a group of VOC compounds that may provide a representation of VOC present in this region. Note that this BTEX monitor is for research purposes and information only, as there are currently no ambient standards for BTEX emissions. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) are a group of organic pollutants that are precursors to ozone formation and are emitted from natural and industrial sources, including oil and gas production and vehicle emissions. There is little information regarding what VOC species may act as ozone precursors due to a lack of speciated VOC measurements in this region.
This project aims to provide accurate and timely BTEX measurements, which will assist air quality
planners’ understanding of air pollution sources and to potentially support reducing air toxics emissions
by:
Disclaimer: All numerical and graphical data displayed concerning BTEX monitoring should be considered preliminary and used with discretion. As with all air monitoring equipment, the BTEX monitor is subject to intermittent fluctuations and disruptions which can cause invalid readings. The New Mexico Environment Department is not responsible for the accuracy of the data or any interpretations or conclusions that may be drawn from the data.
Please click here for instructions on how to use the site to access the data.