Aerosol and gas metrology

Part of our Metrology Research Centre, the aerosol and gas metrology team conducts research, develops new measurement capabilities and provides metrology services for traceable measurement of aerosols and gases. These measurements are used to inform policy and regulations in multiple areas related to the environment, including air quality, the oil and gas sector, and aviation, marine and road transportation.

Our expertise

The aerosol and gas team uses a multidisciplinary approach to solve the latest problems related to the measurement of short-lived climate pollutants—black carbon and methane—and of the airborne nanoparticles relevant to industry and those that adversely affect air quality and human health.

The team has expertise in the following areas:

• R&D on the measurement of black carbon and methane emissions, including developing and characterizing various instruments and developing measurement and calibration techniques and protocols
• Calibration services for nvPM mass concentration instruments used in emissions certification of aircraft engines
• Assessment of particle filtration efficiency and breathing resistance of respirators, masks, and materials used in personal protective equipment

Our latest research

The team is building on its success in developing field-deployable equipment for methane detection and are pivoting to develop hydrogen measurement capabilities to meet the needs of Canada's low carbon fuel industry.

Success stories

Learn more about our significant milestones and accomplishments in the field of aerosol and gas measurement:

• From innovation to regulation: Dr. Greg Smallwood awarded the inaugural Ian Shugart Award for Outstanding Career
• Hold your breath: NRC discovery about ash in marine-engine soot particles sheds light on potential toxicity
• Ensuring safe, effective N95 respirators
• The mission: reducing GHG and black carbon emissions, decreasing the environmental footprint and improving air quality

Image gallery