Comparative field test for measurement of PM10 dust in atmospheric air using gravimetric (reference) method and β-absorption method (Eberline FH 62-1)

The paper presents the results of a field test carried out in Gdańsk region between 01-01-2010 and 31-12-2010 in order to demonstrate equivalence of the Eberline FH 62-1 sampler to the reference gravimetric method of suspended PM10 dust measurement. The differences in PM10 dust concentration provided by both methods have been discussed for different seasons of the year. A method of estimation of the correction factors/correction equations has been described based on the European Union guide “Demonstration of Equivalence of Ambient Air Monitoring Methods. EC Working Group on Guidance for the Demonstration of Equivalence”. The results obtained from Eberline sampler are equivalent to the ones from gravimetric method, but after application of data correction. The investigation revealed different correction factors/correction equations for winter and summer season. The winter season is characterized by higher PM10 concentration and bigger discrepancies between both methods. A lack of equivalence has been found for PM10 dust concentration higher than 30 μg m−3.

► The results obtained via the Eberline sampler are equivalent reference method, but after using correction data. ► There was not a single correction factor/correction equation for the entire measurement period. ► For the dust concentration higher than 30 μg m−3 the equivalence conditions are not fulfilled.