Fisher, Rich ; Thistle, Harold W.; Trent, Andy ; Holland-Sears, Andria . 1999. Laboratory Evaluation of Two Optical Instruments for Real-Time Particulate Monitoring of Smoke. 9925 2806P. Missoula, MT: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, National Technology and Development Program.
Describes a comparison of particulate levels measured by the MIE DataRAM real-time aerosol monitoring system and the Radiance Research M903 nephelometer with gravimetric sampling of particulate in a laboratory combustion chamber. Both the DataRAM and the Radiance Research instruments measure optical properties of the air to determine particulate concentrations. This allows these devices to give readings in the field while a fire is burning. Gravimetric samplers use filters to collect particulate. While these instruments can provide precise results, the filters must be taken back to special facilities where the amount of particulate can be determined. This study advises caution when using optical instruments to determine mass concentrations of airborne smoke particulate.
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