New Regulations, New Questions

The new EU Ambient Air Quality Directive introduces significant updates for monitoring ultrafine particles (UFPs), challenging environmental protection agencies (EPAs) to adapt their strategies and technologies. TSI is here to support you through every stage of the process - whether you are exploring the new requirements or need help selecting the right equipment, installation, training, and ongoing service.

We’re here to help you - our goal is to make things clearer, not more complicated. Click below to find your answers easily:

• Regulatory Framework
• Key Organizations, Projects & Research Initiatives
• Particle Number Concentration (PNC) Measurements
• Particle Size Distribution (PSD) Measurements
• Understanding the Motivation
• Practical Information - Implementation & Support
• Your Questions - Place your questions here and we will be in touch soon.

 

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The Regulatory Framework

CEN standards, such as EN 16976 (PNC measurements) and CEN/TS 17434:2020 (PSD measurements), are developed by the European Committee for Standardization and define the requirements for instrument performance, calibration, and data reporting. The New EU Ambient Air Quality Directive mandates monitoring UFP concentrations in urban areas to provide a more detailed understanding of air pollution's impact.

FAQ: What are the key changes introduced by the new EU Ambient Air Quality Directive?
Besides introducing other variables and tightening existing limits, the directive now includes mandatory ultrafine particle (UFP) monitoring, requiring measurements of PNC and PSD to better understand air quality impacts. Learn more.

FAQ: When do we need to start measuring PNC and PSD?
The new EU Ambient Air Quality Directive, approved by the EU Council on October 14, 2024, officially takes effect on December 10, 2024. Member states are required to apply the new rules, including the measurement of Particle Number Concentration (PNC) and Particle Size Distribution (PSD), by December 12, 2026.
Compliance checks are expected to begin shortly after this deadline, supporting the EU’s broader goal of achieving significantly improved air quality levels aligned with WHO guidelines by 2030.

FAQ: How do EN 16976 and CEN/TS 17434:2020 standards relate to EU directives?
EN 16976 and CEN/TS17434:2020 are explicitly mentioned in the new EU Ambient Air Quality Directive and thus provide the technical guidelines and requirements to fulfill the measurement task set by the directive.

 

Key Organizations, Projects & Research Initiatives

World Health Organization (WHO): WHO’s Global Air Quality Guidelines set health-based recommendations for particulate matter, including ultrafine particles (UFPs), influencing international regulatory standards.

European Environmental Agency (EEA): EEA’s air quality reports provide data-driven insights that help shape EU policies and national air quality strategies.

CEN (European Committee for Standardization): CEN-standards like EN 16976 and CEN/TS 17434:2020 ensure consistency in PNC and PSD measurements across EU monitoring networks, improving data comparability and regulatory compliance. Learn more.

UFP Monitoring Projects: Various EU-funded research projects have highlighted the importance of particle number (PNC) and particle size distribution (PSD) measurements:

• ACTRIS: Pan-European network, supported by more than 20 countries, establishes a sustainable infrastructure for long-term aerosol and trace gas observations, ensuring high-quality atmospheric monitoring. Learn more.
• AQUILA: Provides inter-laboratory comparisons and quality assurance for European air quality monitoring networks.
• Net4Cities: Aims to enhance urban air quality monitoring by developing a harmonized network of measurement stations across European cities.
• RI-URBANS: Focuses on integrating advanced air quality monitoring strategies into urban environments to support public health initiatives. 

FAQ: Why are these organizations important?
They ensure measurement consistency, data comparability, and support the implementation of EU directives.

FAQ: How do these research initiatives influence air quality monitoring?
They provide scientific insights and practical recommendations that shape regulatory standards.

FAQ: Who ensures measurement methods are reliable?
CEN provides the standards that manufacturers and monitoring bodies must follow.

 

Particle Number Concentration (PNC) Measurements

Particle number concentration (PNC) measurements count all of the particles, within a specific size range. They are a key requirement of the new EU directive, with a focus on quantifying ultrafine particles in ambient air. Accurate PNC measurements provide crucial data for understanding air quality trends, identifying pollution sources, and supporting policy decisions. Instruments must adhere to EN 16976 to ensure reliable, comparable results across monitoring networks.

FAQ: What is Particle Number Concentration (PNC) measurement, and why is it important?
PNC measurement counts the number of airborne particles in a given volume of air. It is essential for identifying pollution sources such as traffic emissions and industrial processes.

FAQ: Why measure particle number concentration in addition to mass?
Mass measurements overlook the high number of UFPs, which pose greater health risks. Learn more about the differences between the two methods.

FAQ: What equipment is needed for PNC measurements?
A Condensation Particle Counter (CPC) and Sampling System for Atmospheric Particles compliant with EN 16976:2024 are required to meet regulatory standards.

FAQ: How frequently should PNC measurements be taken?
Continuous monitoring is recommended for regulatory compliance, but sampling frequency may depend on specific monitoring goals.

FAQ: How do we ensure data quality and comparability?
Using CEN-compliant instruments, following proper calibration procedures, and implementing data validation protocols are critical for reliable measurements.

 

Particle Size Distribution (PSD) Measurements

Particle size distribution (PSD) measurements provide a detailed view of the size range of airborne particles, which is essential for identifying sources, understanding atmospheric processes, and assessing health impacts. CEN/TS 17434:2020 outlines the requirements for compliant PSD measurements to support the new EU directive.

FAQ: Why do we need PSD measurements?
PSD provides detailed insights into the size range of airborne particles, helping to distinguish pollution sources and understand atmospheric transformation processes.

FAQ: What instrumentation is needed for PSD measurements?
A Scanning Mobility Particle Sizer™ (SMPS™) spectrometer or equivalent device compliant with CEN/TS 17434:2020 is required for regulatory monitoring.

FAQ: How is PSD data interpreted?
PSD data helps determine particle origin and behavior by analyzing size distribution patterns, which can be used for source identification and air quality modeling.

 

Understanding the Motivation

​​​​​​Air pollution, especially from ultrafine particles, poses significant health and environmental risks. UFPs can penetrate deep into the respiratory system, causing cardiovascular, pulmonary, and neurological damage. Monitoring these particles is essential to safeguard public health.

FAQ: Why is UFP measurement now mandatory under the new directive?
Research has shown that UFPs pose significant health risks, as they can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream. The directive aims to provide more comprehensive air quality data for regulatory action.

FAQ: What are the primary sources of UFPs?
Traffic emissions, industrial processes, residential heating, and natural sources like sea spray.

 

Practical Information - Implementation & Support

TSI is not just a vendor but a long-term partner in air quality monitoring. We provide dedicated support to streamline procurement, installation, and integration, making the transition hassle-free. Our team is available to assist at every stage, from selection to long-term operation.

FAQ: How can we integrate PNC and PSD measurements into our existing monitoring network?
TSI provides consultation and integration support to ensure seamless compatibility with existing data systems. Contact us.

FAQ: Is transitioning to PNC and PSD monitoring complicated?
Not necessarily. TSI offers expert guidance, training, and software to make the transition smooth. Our systems are compliant with the latest EU standards (EN 16976, CEN/TS 17434:2020), ensuring easy compliance and accuracy from day one.

FAQ: Will our team need extensive training to use TSI’s PNC and PSD instruments?
TSI simplifies this transition with comprehensive training on operating from our experts to help ensure that your team is fully prepared. The inclusion of detailed diagnostic data provides users with confidence in their operations, while raw data ensures complete traceability and reliability.

FAQ: How can we ensure long-term compliance?
Regular instrument calibration, software updates, and participation in proficiency testing programs help maintain compliance with the directive.

FAQ: Will TSI’s instruments work with our existing air quality monitoring setup?
Yes, TSI’s 3750-CEN10 CPC and 3938W50-CEN10 SMPS™ are designed to integrate into existing systems with minimal disruption, ensuring compatibility with established workflows.

FAQ: How will adding PNC and PSD measurements impact our workload?
Designed for continuous use 24/7/365, TSI instruments are user-friendly and automated, requiring minimal manual intervention. Real-time diagnostics and remote monitoring capabilities enable existing teams to efficiently manage the new measurement requirements.

FAQ: Will we need to redesign our workflows to accommodate PNC and PSD monitoring?
Major redesign is NOT necessary. Our instruments are compatible with common data formats which reduces the complexity and time required to upgrade network workflows, ensuring smooth integration without significant overhauls.

FAQ: Will PNC and PSD data be compatible with our current reporting system?
TSI solutions are built with flexibility in mind, providing compatibility with a variety of data platforms. Alongside raw data outputs, we offer consultation services to assist in data integration and alignment with current reporting frameworks, ensuring a unified approach to air quality monitoring.