Aerosol Aerodynamic Size Conventions For Inertia! Sampler Calibration

Abstract

The body of information presented in this paper is directed to investigators using inertial samplers for precise and accurate studies of respirable aerosols. The conventions commonly used for aerodynamic size for aerosol particles are discussed including the definition popularized by the "Task Group on Lung Dynamics" of the ICRP, and the "Lovelace" definition. To emphasize the distinction, the Task Group definition (unit density sphere equivalent) is called the aerodynamic equivalent diameter, D_ae, and the Lovelace definition (characteristic expression based upon viscous resistance) is called the aerodynamic resistance diameter, D_ar. The implications and efficacy of these conventions are related to procedures for calibration of cascade impactors, cyclones, and spiral centrifuges. The calibration of a spiral centrifuge at different altitudes is used as an example of the potential problems associated with the use of the different conventions for describing aerodynamic size. The aerodynamic resistance diameter is recommended for calibration of inertial samplers to be used to collect aerosols in the respirable size range.