Standard Test Method for
Determination of Total Suspended Particulate Matter in the
Atmosphere (High–Volume Sampler Method)1

This standard is issued under the fixed designation D 4096; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (e) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

1. Scope

1.1 This test method provides for sampling a large volume
of atmosphere, 1600 to 2400 m3 [55 000 to 85 000 ft3
], by
means of a high flow-rate vacuum pump at a rate of 1.13 to
1.70 m3
/min [40 to 60 ft3
/min] (1, 2, 3 and 4).2

1.2 This flow rate allows suspended particles having diameters of less than 100 µm (stokes equivalent diameter) to be
collected. However, the collection efficiencies for particles
larger than 20 µm decreases with increasing particle size and it
varies widely with the angle of the wind with respect to the
roof ridge of the sampler shelter and with increasing speed (5).
When glass fiber filters are used, particles within the size range
of 100 to 0.1 µm diameters or less are ordinarily collected.

1.3 The upper limit of mass loading will be determined by
plugging of the filter medium with sample material, which
causes a significant decrease in flow rate (see 6.4). For very
dusty atmospheres, shorter sampling periods will be necessary.
The minimum amount of particulate matter detectable by this
method is 3 mg (95 % confidence level). When the sampler is
operated at an average flow rate of 1.70 m3
/min [60 ft3
/min] for 24 h, this is equivalent to 1 to 2 µg/m3 (3).

1.4 The sample that is collected may be subjected to further
analyses by a variety of methods for specific constituents.

1.5 Values stated in SI units shall be regarded as the
standard. Inch-pound units are shown for information only.

1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of 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.

2. Referenced Documents

2.1 ASTM Standards:
D 1356 Terminology Relating to Sampling and Analysis of
Atmospheres3

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