ASTM D 5955 : 1996

1.1 These test methods pertain to the sampling/analysis of respirable suspended particles (RSP) and the estimation of the RSP fraction attributable to environmental tobacco smoke. These test methods are based on collection of total RSP on a membrane filter, extracting the collected material in methanol, and measuring total ultraviolet absorbance or fluorescence, or both, of this extract. The corresponding methods of estimation are termed ultraviolet particulate matter (UVPM) and fluorescent particulate matter (FPM), respectively.

1.2 The sampling components consist of a preweighed, 1.0-µm pore size polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) membrane filter in a filter cassette connected to the inlet end to a particle size separating device and, on the outlet end, to a sampling pump. These test methods are applicable to personal and area sampling.

1.3 These test methods are limited in sample duration only by the capacity of the membrane filter (about 2000 µg). These test methods have been evaluated up to a 24-h sample duration with a minimum sample duration of at least 1 h.

1.4 Limits of detection (LOD) and limit of quantitation (LOQ) for the UVPM test method at a sampling rate of 2 L/min are, respectively, 2.5 µg/m³ and 8.3 µg/m³ for a 1-h sample duration and 0.3 µg/m³ and 1.0 µg/m³ for an 8-h sample duration. the LOD and LOQ for the FPM test method at a sampling rate of 2 L/min are, respectively, 1.4 µg/m³ and 4.7 µg/m³ for a 1-h sample duration and 0.2 µg/m³ and 0.6 µg/m³ for an 8-h sample duration

1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard.

1.6 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. Specific precautionary information is given in 13.6.