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D5955-02 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
ASTM D5955-02 (Reapproved 2017) defines standard test methods for the sampling and analysis of respirable suspended particles (RSP) and the estimation of the RSP fraction attributable to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS). This method, based on the measurement of ultraviolet absorbance (UVPM) and fluorescence (FPM), provides critical tools for indoor air quality assessments.
📐 Scope and Methodology Overview
These test methods cover the collection of total RSP on a preweighed, 1.0‑µm pore size polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) membrane filter. The collected material is extracted in methanol, and the extract is analyzed for total ultraviolet absorbance or fluorescence to estimate the ETS contribution. The methods are compatible with the solanesol‑based approach (ASTM D6271) but do not require it. Sampling components include a filter cassette connected to a particle size separating device on the inlet end and a sampling pump on the outlet end, making it suitable for both personal and area sampling.
⚙️ Sampling and Analytical Procedure
The procedure requires careful flow rate adjustment per Practice D5337. The sample duration is limited entirely by the filter’s mass capacity, which is approximately 2000 µg. The standard has been evaluated for sample durations ranging from a minimum of 1 hour up to a maximum of 24 hours. All measurements and calculations strictly adhere to SI units as the standard.
💡 Key Practice: The standard emphasizes that flow rate adjustment and calibration are critical for accurate volumetric measurements. Refer to ASTM D5337 for specific pump flow rate procedures, and ensure the particle size separating device is properly maintained for consistent cut‑point performance.
📊 Performance Characteristics and Limits
The following tables summarize the critical specifications and detection limits defined by the standard at a sampling rate of 2 L/min.
| 🟦 Parameter | 📐 Specification |
|---|---|
| Filter Media | Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) Membrane |
| Pore Size | 1.0 µm |
| Maximum Filter Loading | ~2000 µg |
| Sample Duration Range | 1 to 24 hours |
| Standard Sampling Rate | 2 L/min |
| 🟦 Method | 📏 Duration | 🎯 LOD (µg/m³) | ⚡ LOQ (µg/m³) |
|---|---|---|---|
| UVPM | 1 hour | 2.5 | 8.3 |
| UVPM | 8 hours | 0.3 | 1.0 |
| FPM | 1 hour | 1.4 | 4.7 |
| FPM | 8 hours | 0.2 | 0.6 |
⚠️ Safety Awareness: This standard does not purport to address all safety concerns. It is the user’s responsibility to establish appropriate safety and health practices. Specific precautionary information regarding the handling of methanol and other laboratory hazards is detailed in Section 13.6 of the full standard.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 How does D5955 relate to the solanesol method (D6271)?
These test methods are fully compatible with but do not require the determination of solanesol (D6271). They offer alternative approaches (UVPM and FPM) for estimating the ETS contribution to RSP and can be used to provide a more comprehensive analysis of indoor air particulate matter.
💡 What are the specific filtration requirements for this method?
The standard mandates the use of a preweighed, 1.0‑µm pore size polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) membrane filter housed in a standard filter cassette assembly. The filter must be handled with care to avoid contamination or damage prior to sampling.
⚡ What are the detection limits for the FPM method?
For an 8-hour sample at 2 L/min, the FPM limit of detection (LOD) is 0.2 µg/m³ and the limit of quantitation (LOQ) is 0.6 µg/m³. For a 1-hour sample, the LOD is 1.4 µg/m³ and the LOQ is 4.7 µg/m³.
📌 What limits the maximum duration of a sample?
The sample duration is limited by the capacity of the membrane filter, which is approximately 2000 µg. The standard has been validated for sample durations from 1 hour up to a maximum of 24 hours under typical indoor concentration levels.