Assessment of stack gas emitted trace metals from incineration: Determination of filter collection efficiency by condensational enlargement of penetrating submicron particles

A method for collection of trace metals on the surface of submicron particles as well as metal vapour is described. The method and the proposed device are based on particle enlargement by condensation of acidic vapour and subsequent collection by an impactor. The device is intended for use as calibration standard for testing high load sampling systems in stack gas emission measurements. As an example, the collection efficiency of coarse quarts fibre filters towards Zn, Cd, Pb and Cu has been assessed during stack gas sampling from waste incinerators. The filter penetration is discussed in relation to sampling precision, and requirements in the selection of trace metal sampling systems are considered. Less than 13% (in average) of emitted Zn, Cd, Pb and Cu penetrates the commonly used quarts fibre filters.