Abstract: A method for determining the amount of photoreactive polynuclear aromatic compound in a sample is described. A sample containing an unknown amount of a photoreactive polynuclear aromatic compound is mixed with a known quantity of a polyhalogenated organic compound and exposed to light of a known wavelength for a known length of time. The quantity of the photoreaction product which results from the light exposure is measured by absorption spectroscopy. Comparison of the absorption measurement to a standard curve allows determination of the concentration of the photoreactive aromatic compound. The simplicity of the method makes it suitable for on-site testing. The method can be used to test for photoreactive compounds in various media, such as soil, aqueous samples, and oil.

Abstract: A method for measuring or detecting halogenated organic compound content. For example, the method can be used to identify polychlorinated biphenyls ("PCB's"), contaminating soil or oil. The method is based on a light induced color producing reaction between a photodonor reagent and a halogenated organic compound. This reaction produces change in the optical absorption of the light exposed photodonor. Reversing the role of reagent and halogenated organic compound provides a method for identifying polyaromatic organic compounds such as pyrenes.

Abstract: A bandage which retains bodily fluids at least until such fluids reach the top of the dressing that may be placed in the bandage and which permits removal or replacement of the dressing without detaching the bandage from the patient. The bandage has a holder with a base portion which is adhesively attached to the skin of the patient and which contains an aperture to accommodate a wound. Connected to the base portion is at least one flap which folds over the dressing that may be inserted into the holder and which has a releasable fastener to close the holder, to maintain the dressing in a desired position, and to enable the bandage to be opened for inspection of the wound or replacement of the dressing. Fluid retention is accomplished by having the distal (with respect to the patient) edge of no flap closer to the patient's body than is the distal side of the dressing.