The abstract follows:

Good emission source data for estimating generation rates often remains a critical data gap in mathematical modeling exercises. This sometimes results in modelers resorting to emission estimate options having a propensity to grossly overestimate the true generation rates, thus creating greater uncertainty in the resultant modeling results.

To improve source data for estimating emissions of respirable particulate matter, a method was developed using a test chamber to create a suitably controlled environment. The test chamber included a controllable ventilation rate and oscillating fans to create a good mixing. Different dust-generating activities and activity rates were used during the testing. Real-time direct read instrumentation used in conjunction with traditional integrated sampling techniques aided in on-the-spot adjustments to testing protocols to prevent under- and overloading sampling filters, while observing dust generation from different tool use and activity rates. This resulted in a significant savings of time and effort for collecting usable and valid results.

This presentation will describe the design of the chamber, method used to develop the source data, the resultant data comparing different dust-generation activities, and a summary of the benefits gained from using the method. Data from these studies were then deemed suitable for the development of respirable dust generation rates useful for mathematical modeling of exposure impacts.