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PM10 Supplement to the 2021 Report on Performance Testing Protocols, Metrics, and Target Values for Fine Particulate Matter Air Sensors
Citation:
Duvall, R., A. Clements, K. Barkjohn, M. Kumar, D. Greene, T. Dye, V. Papapostolou, W. Mui, AND M. Kuang. PM10 Supplement to the 2021 Report on Performance Testing Protocols, Metrics, and Target Values for Fine Particulate Matter Air Sensors. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC, EPA/600/R-23/145, 2023.
Impact/Purpose:
The use of air sensor technologies continues to grow for a variety of applications. However, there is still significant variability in sensor data quality from air sensors. Standard testing protocols to evaluate air sensors are needed to better understand sensor performance and to help user select sensors that are appropriately suited for a desired application. in 2021, the U.S. EPA developed a report outlining testing protocols, metrics, and target values to evaluate the performance of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) air sensors for use in non-regulatory supplemental and informational monitoring applications. EPA is continuing these efforts by providing recommended testing protocols, metrics, and target values for PM10 air sensors. This work is important as it will provide a consistent approach for sensor performance evaluations, help increase confidence in data quality, help stimulate improvements and development in the marketplace, and help consumers choose sensors appropriate for applications of interest. Groups that would be interested or could apply the results from this work include state/local/tribal agencies, EPA Regional Offices, other Federal agencies and departments, international organizations, academia, sensor manufacturers/developers, sensor testing organizations, and the general public.
Description:
The use of air sensors continues to grow for a variety of air monitoring applications. However, the data quality still remains highly variable. In 2021, the U.S. EPA published reports outlining recommended testing protocols to evaluate the performance of fine particulate matter air sensors for non-regulatory supplemental and informational monitoring (NSIM) applications in ambient, outdoor, fixed site environments. These protocols also include recommended performance metrics and target values (testable performance metrics) to understand and compare sensor performance. EPA is continuing these efforts and providing recommended performance testing protocols, metrics, and target values for air sensors measuring inhalable particles with diameters that are generally less than 10 micrometers (PM10). While PM10 sensors are commercially available, fewer performance evaluations and successful field applications have been reported suggesting a need for further development. The report is helping advance understanding of PM10 sensor performance and helping guide future technology improvements.
URLs/Downloads:
PM10 Supplement to the 2021 Report on Performance Testing Protocols, Metrics, and Target Values for Fine Particulate Matter Air Sensors (PDF, 75 pp, 3888 KB, about PDF)Appendix F_Reporting Template for PM10 Base Testing Protocol_Partially Accessible-fillable
Appendix F_Reporting Template for PM10 Base Testing Protocol_Accessible non-fillable (PDF, 3 pp, 941 KB, about PDF)
Appendix H_Reporting Template for PM10 Enhanced Testing Protocol_Partially Accessible
Appendix H_Reporting Template for PM10 Enhanced Testing Protocol_Accessible non-fillable (PDF, 3 pp, 170 KB, about PDF)