Dimethyl sulfide measurement by fluorine-induced chemiluminescence

We have developed a high-speed sensor for dimethyl sulfide (DMS) based on its fast chemiluminescent reaction with molecular fluorine. Emission in the wavelength range 450-650 nm is monitored via photon counting. The instrument can continuously measure DMS with a response time of 0.1 s and is highly linear and sensitive. Limits of detection (S/N = 1) are 39, 12, and 4 pptv DMS for 0.1-, 1-, and 10-s integration times, respectively. Sensitivity and response time allow the direct measurement of DMS fluxes in the marine atmospheric boundary layer by the eddy correlation technique. Selectivity has previously been measured and is sufficient for monitoring DMS in the marine boundary layer without significant interferences.