ISO 23210:2009 specifies a standard reference method for the determination of PM10 and PM2,5 mass concentrations at stationary emission sources by use of two-stage impactors. The measurement method is especially suitable for measurements of mass concentrations below 40 mg/m3 as half-hourly averages in standard conditions (273 K, 1 013 hPa, dry gas). It is an acceptable method for the measurement in the flue gas of different installations, such as cement and steel production plants, as well as combustion processes.

ISO 23210:2009 is not applicable to the sampling of flue gases that are saturated with water vapour.

ISO 23210:2009 is not applicable where the majority of the particles are likely to exceed PM10, for example, in the case of raw gases or plant operating failures.

ISO 23210:2009 cannot be used for the determination of the total mass concentration of dust.

ISO 23210:2009 describes the design, use and theory of round-nozzle impactors. It does not exclude other types of impactors, provided these systems meet the performance criteria specified in ISO 23210:2009 in a validation of the impactor performed by an independent testing laboratory.