US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) / National Exposure Research Laboratories (NERL) / Human Exposure and Atmospheric Sciences Division (HEASD)

The EPA Sequential Fine Particle Sampler is a gaseous sampler that tests for metals and compounds in the air. It collects cations of Lithium, Sodium, Ammonium, Potassium, Magnesium, and Calcium and anions of Fluoride, Chloride, Nitrite, Bromide, Nitrate, Phosphate, and Sulfate.

A URG automated sequential fine particle sampler (SFPS) collection system capable of collecting a minimum of seven days of gas and particulate samples without operator assistance. EPA-approved 47mm Teflon filters with unique identification numbers are stamped on the polypropylene support ring, and 242 mm multi-channel annular denuders are prepared, sampled, and analyzed in a manner consistent with EPA method IO-4. The filters are extracted in 5 ml of deionized water in a glove bag. The filter extract is introduced into a DIONEX ICS-90 ion chromatographic system for the quantification of major anions and cations. (e.g. halides).

The objective is to accumulate a long-term record of gas and fine (<2.5 µm) particulate halide chemistry to support atmospheric mercury chemistry research.

(top section of SFPS, facing Mauna Kea)