Particulate monitoring and analysis

PM10 and PM2.5 Filter weighing under controlled temperature and humidity conditions. Data validation and QA/QC audit visits for Partisols, TEOMs, Particle counters/sizers and other automatic particulate measurements equipment. Occupational health particulate measurement. Airborne nanoparticles Techniques for particle counting and sizing, aimed primarily at smaller particles in the range 1 - 500 nm, typically known as 'ultrafine particles' or 'nanoparticles'. We currently maintain and calibrate the Defra Particle Size and number network, as well as carrying out laboratory research into the use of these instruments. Metals UKAS accredited service for particulate metals analysis by Inductively Coupled Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) as performed by NPL for the UK Metals Network. Sampling, data validation and QA/QC visits for metals sampling equipment. Additional capability for vapour phase mercury monitoring and analysis by Atomic Fluorescence Spectroscopy (AFS) (also UKAS accredited). Organic carbon / elemental carbon NPL's particle speciation facilities include a Sunset Laboratories Carbon Aerosol Analysis Instrument, which measures the organic and elemental carbon content of particulate matter that has been sampled onto quartz filters following recognised standard methods. Anions Sampling and analysis for sulphate, nitrate, chloride and other anions by Ion Chromatography. Data validation and QA/QC visits for automated speciation equipment as carried out for the Defra Particle Counting and Speciation Network.