Calibration and modeling of PMP compliant condensation particle counters

The study presents results of calibration experiments for four PMP compliant CPCs (3 TSI's 3790 and a TSI's 3010 operating at lower saturator-condenser temperature differences) tested against a range of calibration particles, including Poly(alpha)-Olefin (PAO), tetracontane (C40), tetradecane (C14) and hexadecane (C16). The experimental data were analyzed using a numerical model developed by Giechaskiel et al. (Journal of Aerosol Science, 42:20-37) which was amended to investigate the effect of line tension, curvature dependence of the surface tension as well as condensational growth of activated particles. The study also investigated possibilities to verify the linearity of CPCs against an electrometer in the sub 2000 #/cm3 concentration range. The use of elevated sample flowrates and multiply charged particles of well defined charge status, allowed for some linearity checks down to 300 #/cm3 concentration levels.