Evaluation of a mini-cascade impactor for sampling exposure chamber atmospheres.
Andersen 4-stage mini-cascade impactors, designed primarily for personnel dosimetry, were tested for suitability of characterizing solid-particle aerosols within inhalation exposure chambers. Performances were assessed by comparing their particle-size separating capabilities against cyclone separators and Andersen 8-stage ambient cascade impactors. Data reveal excellent agreement between respirable (ACGIH) mass fractions, and mass median aerodynamic diameters, measured with the mini-samplers and the larger laboratory cascade impactors. Cyclone data did not correlate as well. Findings indicate that where accurate particle characterization at low sampling flow rates is desired, compact mini-cascade impactors are appropriate instruments.
D000336:Aerosols; D001273:Atmosphere Exposure Chambers; D010316:Particle Size; D012965:Sodium Chloride / Q000032:analysis; D014116:Toxicology / Q000295:instrumentation
D000336:Aerosols; D012965:Sodium Chloride