The measurement of particulate matter and collected residue emission rates is an important test method widely used in the practice of air pollution control. Particulate matter measurements after control devices are necessary to determine total emission rates into the atmosphere.

5.1.1 These measurements, when approved by federal or state agencies, are often required for the purpose of determining compliance with regulations and statutes.

5.1.2 The measurements made before and after control devices are often necessary to demonstrate conformance with contractual performance specifications.

The collected residue obtained with this test method is also important in characterizing stack emissions. However, the utility of these data is limited unless a chemical analysis of the collected residue is performed.

These measurements also can be used to calibrate continuous particulate emission monitoring systems by correlating the output of the monitoring instruments with the data obtained by using this test method.

5.3.1 This test method is useful in such correlation applications when emissions are less than 20 mg/m³.

5.3.2 The correlation test method is most valid when the monitoring instrumentation samples the particulate matter under the same test conditions as this test method.

1.1 This test method covers a method for the measurement of particulate matter (dust) concentration in emission gases in the concentrations below 20 mg/m³ standard conditions, with special emphasis around 5 mg/m³.

1.2 To meet the requirements of this test method, the particulate sample is weighed to a specified level of accuracy. At low dust concentrations, this is achieved by:

1.2.1 Exercising extreme care in weighing,

1.2.2 Extending the sampling time at conventional sampling rates, or

1.2.3 Sampling at higher rates at conventional sampling times (high-volume sampling).

1.3 This test method differs from Test Method D 3685/D 3685M by requiring the mass measurement of filter blanks, specifying weighing procedures, and requiring monitoring of the flue gas flow variability over the testing period. It requires that the particulate matter collected on the sample filter have a mass at least five times a positive mass difference on the filter blank. High volume sampling techniques or an extension of the sampling time may be employed to satisfy this requirement.

1.4 This test method may be used for calibration of automated monitoring systems (AMS). If the emission gas contains unstable, reactive, or semi-volatile substances, the measurement will depend on the filtration temperature, and in-stack methods may be more applicable than out-stack methods for the calibration of automated monitoring systems.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.