The report describes techniques developed for generating large quantities of reproducible, stable, inorganic, fine-particle aerosol fumes. These fumes simulated particulate air pollutants emitted from power generation, basic oxygen furnaces, electric arc furnaces, and zinc smelting. The aerosols were generated by burning flammable solutions containing appropriate soluble compounds (e.g., nitrates) of the desired elements. In the flame, these compounds decomposed to oxides. Particle size determinations were made using scanning and transmission electron microscope (SEM and TEM) photographic analysis of captured particles, as well as Whitby and Royco aerosol analyzers. The generated aerosol flow rates were as high as 42 cu m per min (148 cfm); particle loadings were as high as 16.8 g per cu m at STP. For most aerosols the aerosol particle and condensation nuclei concentrations were of the order of 10 to the 9th power particles per cu cm. The aerosol volume median diameters varied from less than 0.015 to greater than 4.7 micrometers and were primarily a function of the solution ingredients. Methods were developed to vary the SO2 concentration and particle resistivities.

EPA Interagency agreement IAG-D5-0669, Program element 1AB012, ROAP 21ADM-031, sponsored by Industrial Environmental Research Laboratory. Issued July 1977. Includes bibliographical references (pages 74-75).