The EPA on Wednesday proposed a rule amending Methods 201A and 202 to add newer technologies to the approved list of particulate matter sampling options.

The proposed amendments to Method 201A would add a particle-sizing device to allow for sampling of particulate matter (PM) with mean aerodynamic diameters less than or equal to 2.5 micrometers, or PM2.5.

The proposed amendments to Method 202 would revise the sample collection and recovery procedures of the method to reduce the formation of reaction artifacts that could lead to inaccurate measurements of condensable particulate matter (CPM). Additionally, the proposed amendments to Method 202 would eliminate most of the hardware and analytical options in the existing method, thereby increasing the precision of the method and improving the consistency in the measurements obtained between source tests performed under different regulatory authorities, according to the agency.

The agency is also soliciting comments on whether to end the transition period for CPM in the New Source Review (NSR) program on a date earlier than the current end date of Jan. 1, 2011. The EPA believes the proposed amendments would improve the measurement of fine particulates and would help State and local agencies in implementing CPM control measures to attain the PM_2.5 National Ambient Air Quality Standards.

Comments must be received on or before May 26, 2009.

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• The above was extrapolated from the summary. Read the complete notice.