EPA 40 CFR Part 50 Appendix J: Particulate Matter (PM10) Measurement Standards

Determination of PM 10 Fraction of Suspended Particulate Matter - Gravimetric Method

EPA 40 CFR Part 50 Appendix J

It is a standard set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that details methods for measuring particulate matter (PM10). This standard contains technical information and requirements for air pollution monitoring systems. PM10 refers to particles smaller than 10 micrometers and such particles are important due to their negative impact on respiratory health.

The measurement principle can be briefly summarized as follows:

Ambient air is drawn with an air sampler at a constant flow rate into a specially shaped inlet where suspended particulate matter is inertially separated into one or more size fractions in the PM10 size range. Each size fraction in the PM10 size range is determined and collected in separate filters. PM10 mass concentration in ambient air is calculated by dividing the total mass of particles collected in the PM10 size range by the volume of air sampled.

PM10 Measurement Methods

Appendix J describes different approaches to measuring PM10, such as gravimetric and electro-chemical methods. Here are the main features of these methods:

Gravimetric Method (Weighing Method)

It is performed by collecting PM10 particles on a filter and then weighing the filter to measure the weight of the particulate matter.
Devices Used: A particle monitoring device (PM sampler) to trap PM10 particles on the filter. The filter ensures that the particles remain closed to the airflow.
Measurement Period: Measurements can be made in 24-hour or 1-week periods.

Electro-chemical Method

PM10 particles are collected in an electro-chemical cell under a charge. These collected particles are then measured.
Areas of Use: It is more widely used especially in industrial areas and areas with heavy traffic.

Application Areas of the Standard

EPA 40 CFR Part 50 Appendix J governs the installation and operation of PM10 monitoring systems. This standard is particularly

Monitoring air qualityin urban and industrial areas.
Monitoring particulate matteron public transportation routes and roadways.
It is used in gas emissions monitoring systems used in areas such asdrinking water plants and wastewater treatment plants.

Nanolab Laboratories Group continues to provide services within the scope of Determination of PM 10 Fraction of Suspended Particulate Matter. We also provide services in Emission - Imission Measurements.

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