A Comparison of Gravimetric and Photometric Aerosol Samplers
Abstract
This study compared gravimetric and photometric aerosol sampling instruments for determining airborne concentrations of particulate matter. The instruments used were (1) the SKC(R) Deployable Particulate Sampler (DPS) that collects a sample on a filter, which is gravimetrically analyzed for concentration of mass, and (2) the TSI(R) DustTrak(TM) 8520 and Sidepak(TM)AM510 that use photometry to estimate airborne particulate concentration. The capability to use these samplers interchangeably would permit employment of the best-suited instrument based on logistical and mission parameters for military force health protection. The instruments were deployed at Yuma Proving Grounds, Arizona for testing and were used in side-by-side sampling over a period of 13 days. Three statistical analyses, Pearson correlation coefficient, correlation within means, and the Bland-Altman analysis were used to compare the derived data. Statistical interpretation of the data between the DPS and the DustTrak at the PM10 cut-point found a strong correlation of data using the metric devised for this study measuring the strength of a relationship between two variables. Analytical comparisons for the DPS and DustTrak at the PM2.5 cut-point demonstrated a weak relationship. The analysis between the DPS and the SidePak was not possible as the power source did not enable the Sidepak to sample for a twentyfour hour period and thus the samples collected were not comparable. A requirement exists for further laboratory and field studies.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 24, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA539594
Entities
People
- Donald W. Mcinnes
Organizations
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences