Particle Size Distribution of Settled Dust

Abstract

In 1958, San Bernardino County Air Pollution Control District adopted rules and regulations for the control of dust, fumes and particulate matter. These were taken from ordinances which had been effectively used in other areas. After three years, experience showed that in some instances these rules and regulations should be modified to take into consideration the specific industrial operations in the county. A technical committee was appointed to examine this problem and concluded that a reasonable rule would be one that protects the public from the undesirable effects of dusts, fumes and particulate matter but would not impose an unnecessary burden on industry. Dustfall samples were collected at various locations throughout San Bernardino County and examined for particle-size distribution. In order to obtain reliable data, fairly large samples had to be collected in a short time. A 12 foot square plastic sheet was found suitable for sample collection. Particle size determinations were made with both the coulter counter and the Bahco microparticle classifier. The two methods yielded comparable results. It was found that settled dust particles for all practical considerations were all greater than 30 microns in equivalent diameter. Regulations based on these findings are being developed.