An Overview of Particulate Matter Measurement Instruments

Author(s)

Amaral, Simone Simoes ^[1] ; de Carvalho, Jr., Joao Andrade ^[1] ; Martins Costa, Maria Angelica ^[2] ; Pinheiro, Cleverson ^[3]

Affiliation

^[1] Univ Estadual Paulista, UNESP, Dept Energy, BR-12516410 Guaratingueta, SP - Brazil

^[2] Univ Estadual Paulista, UNESP, Dept Biochem & Chem Technol, Inst Chem, BR-14800060 Araraquara, SP - Brazil

^[3] Fed Inst Educ Sci & Technol Sao Paulo, Dept Logist, BR-12322030 Jacarei, SP - Brazil

• Document type: Review article
• Source: ATMOSPHERE; v. 6, n. 9, p. 1327-1345, SEP 2015.
• Web of Science Citations: 28

Abstract

This review article presents an overview of instruments available on the market for measurement of particulate matter. The main instruments and methods of measuring concentration (gravimetric, optical, and microbalance) and size distribution Scanning Mobility Particle Sizer (SMPS), Electrical Low Pressure Impactor (ELPI), and others were described and compared. The aim of this work was to help researchers choose the most suitable equipment to measure particulate matter. When choosing a measuring instrument, a researcher must clearly define the purpose of the study and determine whether it meets the main specifications of the equipment. ELPI and SMPS are the suitable devices for measuring fine particles; the ELPI works in real time. In health-related studies, a Diffusion Charger is the instrument that best characterizes the surface of ultrafine particles. Several methods and different particle measuring instruments should be used to confirm the values obtained during sampling. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 08/04490-4 - Combustion of tropical forest biomass
• Grantee: João Andrade de Carvalho Junior
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants
• FAPESP's process: 13/21231-0 - Conditions that enhance the spread of forest fires and the emission of gaseous pollutants to atmosphere
• Grantee: Simone Simões Amaral
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate