Development of a sampling train for the assessment of particulate fugitive emissions

Abstract

A prototype portable Fugitive Assessment Sampling Train (FAST), designed to obtain large samples of particulate emissions generated by sources whose configurations preclude sample collection before the diffusion of the emissions into the ambient atmosphere, has been successfully fabricated and tested. The prototype FAST utilizes a combination of commercially available and specially designed equipment to collect a 500 milligram particulate sample in an 8-hour period at locations downwind of most industrial fugitive sources. The particulate sample is separated into inhalable and respirable fractions and provides sufficient material for a complete Level 1 assessment including bioassays. A quantity of organic species larger than C 6, sufficient for mass spectrometry analysis, is collected on a bed of adsorbent resin. The establishment of design criteria and operating parameters, selection and design of hardware components, and the fabrication and initial testing of the FAST are discussed. The results of calibration tests and an initial field trial are presented and a plan for additional development is outlined.