[Validation of PM10 and PM2.5 personal samplers: comparison between PEM and CEN-ARPAV selectors]

G Ital Med Lav Ergon. 2005 Jul-Sep;27(3):362-6.
[Article in Italian]

Abstract

In order to validate specific personal selectors for the collection of fine particles, 65 double measurements of PM10 and PM2.5 were carried out at the same collection site; thus allowing a comparison between two different methods of sampling. The first method was that normally used by ARPAV in order to sample the above-mentioned granulometric fractions in outdoor environment. The second method was chosen by us for personal sampling (PEM working at 2 l/min and at 4 l/min). In both cases the filters gravimetric analysis conformed to the expectations of D.M. 60 of 2/4/2002. The comparison between the two methods showed a good correlation in both the granulometric fractions: correlation coefficients r for the PM2.5 are equal to 0.96 and 0.99 for the PEM working at 2 l/min and at 4 l/min respectively; r for the PM10 are equal to 0.98 and 0.99 for the PEM working at 2 l/min and at 4 l/min respectively. The analysis of results in terms of fine particles concentration and difference between methods against their mean, shows a slight overestimate of the particles concentration with PEM working at 2 l/min, compared to those working at 4 l/min. Nevertheless, considering the good results obtained even with a flow of 2 l/min, we believe that using PEM working at 2 l/min to monitoring 24 hours-personal exposure assures an improved capacity in the battery-operated pumps.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Evaluation Study

MeSH terms

  • Air Pollutants / analysis*
  • Environmental Exposure*
  • Environmental Monitoring / instrumentation
  • Environmental Monitoring / methods*
  • Humans
  • Particle Size
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Air Pollutants