Low operating temperature fuel cells such as proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) require high purity hydrogen for maximum material performance and lifetime. Measurement of particulates in hydrogen is necessary for assuring a feed gas of sufficient purity to satisfy fuel cell and internal combustion system needs as defined in SAE J2719. The particulates in hydrogen fuel for FCVs and gaseous hydrogen powered internal combustion engine vehicles may adversely affect pneumatic control components, such as valves, or other critical system components. Therefore, the concentration of particulates in the hydrogen fuel should be limited as specified by ISO 14687, SAE J2719, or other hydrogen fuel quality specifications.

Although not intended for application to gases other than hydrogen fuel, techniques within this test method can be applied to gas samples requiring determination of particulate matter.

1.1 This test method is primarily intended for gravimetric determination of particulates in hydrogen intended as a fuel for fuel cell or internal combustion engine powered vehicles. This test method describes operating and quality control procedures required to obtain data of known quality satisfying the requirements of SAE J2719 and the California Code of Regulations, Title 4, Division 9, Chapter 6, Article 8, Sections 4180 – 4181. The levels of precision and accuracy stated. This test method can be applied to other gaseous samples requiring determination of particulates provided the user’s data quality objectives are satisfied.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.3 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.