Establishing control in a PM{sub 2.5} laboratory: Experiences at the OAQPS/RTP PM{sub 2.5} laboratory during Summer 1998--Winter 1999
To support program implementation needs of the Federal reference method (FRM) for fine particulate matter (PM) established in 1997, the Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards in Research Triangle Park, NC, established a laboratory containing filters, before and after they are used to collect fine PM samples, and a gravimetric microbalance, used to weigh the filters under the conditions required by the reference method. The mass loadings collected on filters are often small enough to be significantly sensitive to factors that are not controlled to the extent for optimum balance performance at that range and as required by the FRM, contained in 40CFR Part 50, Appendix L, Final Rule. The use of a pan and shaft microbalance, polonium strips, room cleanliness and the time that the door to the room was opened were the most important factors in establishing laboratory control. There were additional factors involved that proved to be more difficult to control such as: temperature, relative humidity, entrainment of dust and particulate through the entrance, and human contamination (from operator handling and proximity to filters). These additional factors were somewhat variable; therefore control efforts were focused on maintaining as little range in variation or contamination as possible.
- OSTI ID:
- 20002067
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-990608--
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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