EPA - PM2.5 Continuous FEM Audit Device Prototype - MRAS

On behalf of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) is conducting market research to explore capabilities related to a new requirement for PM_2.5 Continuous Federal Equivalent Method (FEM) Audit Device Prototypes. This initiative aims to enhance the quality assurance processes for air monitoring conducted by state, local, and tribal agencies across the United States. The primary goal is to ensure that air quality data, crucial for public health assessments and regulatory compliance, are accurate and timely.

The EPA currently relies on both Federal Reference Methods (FRMs) and continuous FEMs for measuring PM_2.5 levels in the atmosphere. While FRMs involve manual sampling and laboratory analysis, resulting in a delay of several weeks before data can be reported, continuous FEMs provide automated hourly data in near real-time. These continuous methods are integral to Air Quality Index (AQI) reporting, as seen on platforms like EPA's AirNow website.

The market research seeks to identify solutions that can supplement existing FRM performance evaluations with automated continuous FEMs capable of delivering immediate data insights. The objective is to develop an independent and portable continuous PM_2.5 FEM monitor that meets specific precision, bias, and completeness criteria. Such a device would be particularly useful in situations where PM_2.5 FEM outliers are detected or in locations lacking FRM collocation but where there is suspicion of outlier data.

This effort underscores the EPA's commitment to leveraging advanced technologies for more efficient air quality monitoring and ensuring robust environmental protection measures are in place nationwide.