ASTM-D6271:2016 Edition

1.1 This test method covers the sampling/analysis of respirable suspended particles (RSP) and the estimation of the RSP fraction attributable to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS). The test method is based on collection of total RSP on a membrane filter, extraction of the filter in methanol, and determination of solanesol, a C₄₅ isoprenoid alcohol, by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with ultraviolet (UV) detection.

1.2 This test method is compatible with the determinations of gravimetric RSP, ultraviolet particulate matter (UVPM), and fluorescent particulate matter (FPM) (see Test Methods D5955), but does not require them. UVPM and FPM, which are based on the ultraviolet absorbance and fluorescence of the filter extract, are also used to estimate the contribution of ETS to RSP.

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

1.4 This test method is limited in sample duration only by the capacity of the membrane filter. The test method has been evaluated up to 24-h sample duration; a minimum sample duration of 1 h is recommended.

1.5 Limits of detection (LOD) for this test method at a sampling rate of 2 L/min are 0.042 μg/m³ for 1-h sample duration and 0.005 μg/m³ for 8-h sample duration.

1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.7 This standard does not purport to address all 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.