Air pollution monitoring is an important part of environmental monitoring and is used to assess the quality of air within the troposphere. In particular, fine particulate matter must be monitored closely to ensure safe and functional community health. Read on to find out what air monitoring is, why it is important, and how to correctly determine proper filtration of fine particulates in the atmosphere.
The What and Why of Air Pollution Monitoring
Air pollution monitoring is the systematic and long-term assessment of pollutant levels within the ambient air. Ambient air is considered all air under roughly 10 meters as at 10m all vertical mixing of pollutants is homogenous and is considered representative of all sources within the vicinity. Common pollutants measured include carbon monoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen (No2, No3), ozone (O3), lead (Pb), sulfur dioxide(SO2), volatile organic compounds (VOC), and particulate matter of both particulates with aerodynamic diameters below 19 micrometers (PM-10) and below 2.5 micrometers (PM-2.5).
Of which, fine particulate matter (PM-2.5) is considered one of the most dangerous pollutants thanks to its ability to penetrate lung barriers thereby entering the blood systems of living beings. Continuous air pollution monitoring is thereby needed to maintain standards of health and wellness recommended by the World Health Organization.
Air pollution monitoring is thus used to determine whether a region’s air quality meets national standards and guidelines. This information can then be used to identify major sources of pollution, target specific industries for improvement, or take other actions to improve air quality.
Air pollution monitoring is the systematic and long-term assessment of pollutant levels of common criteria pollutants including carbon monoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen (No2, No3), ozone (O3), lead (Pb), sulfur dioxide(SO2), volatile organic compounds (VOC), and particulate matter of both particulates with aerodynamic diameters below 19 micrometers (PM-10) and below 2.5 micrometers (PM-2.5).
Determination of Ambient PM2.5
To measure the concentration of PM2.5 particles in ambient air, a sample of gas is extracted at a constant flow rate through an in-stack sizing device. The particle-sizing device separates particles with diameters of 2.5 micrometers or less. After a sample is obtained, uncombined water is removed from the particulate and then gravimetric analysis is applied to determine the mass contributed by each size fraction.
Air Monitoring Membrane Filter for PM2.5
Proper filtration is needed to accurately conduct ambient air monitoring of particulate matter. Tisch ambient air monitoring membrane filters maintain 2.0um PTFE membranes with 46.2mm diameter and a polypropylene support ring for successful robotic air sampling. Additionally, these filters have the following features:
- Strong thermal stability
- High natural chemical resistance
- Low tare mass for proper gravimetric analysis
- Meet requirements set forth for EPA FRM 2.5 under 40 CFR Part 50, Section L
- Arrive sequentially numbered
PTFE Membrane Filter for Air Pollution Monitoring
Thanks to their hydrophobic nature, interference-free chemical determinations, low tare mass, and strong thermal stability PTFE membrane filters of 2.5 focus are particularly useful when determining the extent of air pollution monitoring. When used in combination with a vacuum pump and an air filter, these membranes can be used for collecting particles from the air.
Selecting an Air Monitoring Membrane Filter
When it comes to selecting proper air monitoring membrane filters there is a prescribed task process involved that contains four simple steps. These steps are easily done with a filter media selector and include:
- Considering the necessity of prefiltration for the air monitoring application
- Deciding on a membrane filtration material based on the following qualities: Aqueous, Non Polar, and Protein.
- Select your suitable diameter. For air monitoring we recommend a membrane with a 46.2 mm diameter.
- Ensure the pore size, based on micron size of the column of >3um or <3um.
Perform additional due diligence to ensure chemical compatibility with particulates. Consider the chemical compatibility guide to allow for proper and safe particulate filtration.
Air Monitoring Membrane Filters Can Help You Assess Air Quality
Extremely versatile, Tisch scientific air filters are abrasive resistant, hydrophobic,have excellent chemical compatibility ability and are able to properly withstand pressure while maintaining flexibility. For all of these reasons and more, they are an excellent and affordable choice for filtration applications and when utilized correctly will deliver reproducible, accurate, and timely results.