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Cave Air Quality Study |
Air Quality Study of Select Caves Within the Payson Ranger District, Gila County, Arisona
Researchers: Taran Doty, P.E. (NSS #44128) and Bryan Doty (NSS #47451), Central Arizona Grotto of the National
Speleological Society
Abstract
The primary objective of the proposed scope of work was to collect and analyze air quality data
regarding seasonal variations of select chemical components and physical properties of the atmospheres
in several caves within Gila County, Arizona. The primary compounds of interest include oxygen and carbon
dioxide, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The concentrations of these species were evaluated over
the course of one year to identify seasonal variations of atmospheric conditions and to identify likely
periods in which the caves may contain hazardous oxygen-deficient conditions that are unsuitable for human
occupation. In addition to compositional information, physical data was be recorded including temperature,
barometric pressure, and relative humidity. Non-quantitative observations were made including
current weather conditions, recent precipitation, or influx of organic materials.
Interested parties can contact
Taran
or
Bryan for test results.
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