Automatic instrument for aerosol samples using the beta-particle attenuation

This work describes an instrument developed for the routine measurement of aerosol mass using the β-particle attenuation method. The design of the present instrument is particularly well suited for the automatic mass measurement of membrane filters used for the collection of airborne particles. The instrument uses electromechanical devices for the automatic positioning of filters in the sampling and measuring holders and the return to their stand by locations, where the filters are stored for off-line testing purposes and documentation. The instrument is designed with very low system ‘dead time’ and high sensitivity.