71 Comparison of Different Methods for Measuring Elemental Carbon as a Marker of Exposure to Diesel Fume

Abstract

Sampling of diesel fume particulates onto filters from workplace atmospheres with subsequent analysis for an elemental carbon marker using a laboratory-based combustion technique is well established with procedures codified in both European and American standard methods. However these procedures are operationally defined, that is, the elemental carbon result obtained depends upon which procedure is used. In this presentation the extent of such differences between standard methods - EN 16909, NIOSH 5040 and VDI 2465 - is explored via analysis of new diesel fume on filter reference materials.