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AETHALOMETER AE33

AE33
Advanced Measurement of Black Carbon

Trusted workhorse that helped shape our understanding of traffic and biomass burning pollution. AE33 remains the go-to solution for consistent, real-time, high-quality black carbon data. Ideal for long-term measurement in environmental networks, academic research and industrial applications. AE33 is the preferred choice for institutions seeking a balance of precision, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
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TO MEASURE IS TO KNOW

DATA YOU CAN TRUST

COMPREHENSIVE DATA

LOW MAINTENANCE

DECADES OF EXPERIENCE

HOW IT WORKS?

The Science Behind AE33

Key features
Measurement principle

Key features

MULTI-WAVELENGTH OPERATION

DUALSPOT – PATENTED TECHNOLOGY

SOURCE APPORTIONMENT – FOSSIL FUEL vs. BIOMASS BURNING

REMOTE ACCESS

RELIABLE AND HIGH QUALITY DATA

Aethalometer
Aethalometer

Measurement principle

The Aethalometer collects and analyzes aerosol particles continuously. The aerosol-laden air stream is drawn through a spot on a filter tape at a measured flow rate. Simultaneously, the tape is illuminated by light: sensitive detectors measure the intensities of light transmitted through an un-exposed portion of the tape, acting as a reference; versus the collecting spot. As optically absorbing material accumulates on the spot, the intensity of light transmitted through it gradually decreases. The decrease in light intensity from one measurement to the next is interpreted as an increase in collected material. This increased amount is divided by the known air-flow volume to calculate the concentration.

The real-time analysis is performed at 7 optical wavelengths from the near-ultraviolet (370 nm) to the near-infrared (950 nm), which enables source apportionment – see below – to separate traffic or diesel exhaust from biomass burning (woodsmoke, forest fires, cook stoves…), and brown carbon calculations.

AETHALOMETER AE33

PRODUCT INFO

Information
Specifications
Documents
Publications
Video
Accessories

DUALSPOT

PATENTED AUTOMATIC COMPENSATION FOR FILTER LOADING EFFECT

Sample collection and analysis is performed on two filter spots simultaneously at different flow rates. Mathematical combination of the data eliminates the filter loading effect and provides continuously corrected data in real time with no discontinuities at filter advances.

This compensation depends critically on the aerosol composition and properties. It must be determined in real time from the measurement data, as it cannot be predicted in advance.

The parameters derived from this analysis also offer additional insights into aerosol composition and aging.

7-WAVELENGTH OPERATION

UV-IR, 1Hz DATA

The analysis is performed at 7 optical wavelengths spanning from the near-infrared (950 nm) to the near-ultraviolet (370 nm).  The sequencing of illumination and analysis is performed on a 1-Hz timebase.  This yields the complete spectrum of aerosol optical absorption with one data line every second.

REAL-TIME SOURCE APPORTIONMENT

The Aethalometer model, as described by Sandradevi et al. (2007), is employed to estimate the real-time contribution of black carbon (BC) from biomass combustion. This model distinguishes between BC emitted from biomass burning and that from fossil fuel sources, such as traffic emissions. Identifying the dominant source of black carbon is crucial for developing targeted air quality management strategies, as the health impacts, atmospheric behavior, and policy responses differ significantly between biomass burning and traffic-related pollution.

CALIBRATION AND IN-FIELD VALIDATION

The optical performance of the Aethalometer AE33 may be validated by the Neutral Density Optical Filter Kit, consisting of four precision optical elements whose absorbance is traceable to fundamental standards.  Software routines measure the optical intensities at all wavelengths and compare the analysis instantly with the original reference values. Other built-in test programs offer routine checks of stability and leakage.  These features provide Quality Assurance that is essential both for routine monitoring and research use.

USER AND COMMUNICATIONS INTERFACES

The user and communications interfaces of the instrument enable comprehensive remote access, allowing for real-time monitoring of operational status, automated data retrieval, execution of internal diagnostic tests, and reporting of key state-of-health parameters. These capabilities are essential for ensuring continuous, high-quality data collection, minimizing downtime, and supporting timely maintenance interventions – especially in long-term air quality monitoring networks or remote deployments.

RUGGED, RELIABLE, AUTOMATIC

The Aethalometer AE33 has been developed over almost 40 years to offer rugged, reliable, and automatic operation.  The AE33 recovers automatically from power interruptions and no operator attention is required for weeks or months, other than replacing the roll of filter tape.

The Aethalometer AE33 has been developed with input from the research and monitoring communities, and is designed for reliable operation under all conditions ranging from state‐of‐the‐art research to routine air quality monitoring.

INTEGRATES WITH TCA08 FOR OC/EC ANALYSIS

AE33 can be combined with Total Carbon Analyzer TCA08 to Carbonaceous Aerosol Speciation System CASS: a revolutionary OC/EC analyzer that measures:

  • Total Carbon Content (TC)
  • Elemental Carbon content (EC)
  • Organic Carbon content (OC)
  • Black Carbon content (BC)

Furthermore, using the advanced TC/BC(λ) method CASS can be used to monitor a complete fingerprint of carbonaceous aerosols, including primary and secondary organic aerosols.

MEASUREMENT PERFORMANCE

7-WAVELENGTH OPERATION

370, 470, 520, 570, 630, 880, 950 nm characterization of light-absorbing aerosols.

TIME BASE

1 second or 1 minute, post-processing to any time resolution

SENSITIVITY

Proportional to time base and sample flow rate settings: approximately 0.03 μg/m3 @ 1 min, 5 LPM.

DETECTION

Detection Limit (1 hour): <0.005 μg/m3 black carbon

Range: <0.01 to >100 μg/m3

Resolution: 0.001 μg/m3 or 1 ng/m3

DUALSPOT TECHNOLOGY
Simultaneous analysis of light absorption by aerosol deposits collected on 2 spots in parallel at different loading rates. Mathematical combination of data yields black carbon result independent of spot loading effects and provides additional information about aerosol composition.

SOURCE APPORTIONMENT
Discrimination of black carbon from fossil fuel versus biomass combustion is possible with built-in analysis by a two-component model.

SAMPLING

Aerosol sample collected on filter tape consisting of coated glass fibers, supported by a reinforcement backing. Tape advances automatically when the user-selectable loading threshold is reached, typically once every few hours, depending on concentration and flow rate. Size-selective inlets (impactor, cyclone) may be attached.

  • Air flow: set-points of 2, 3, 4 and 5 LPM; internal pump.
  • Flow measured by two mass flow sensors and
    stabilized by closed-loop control.
  • Time-base 1 second or 1 minute, post-processing to any time resolution

QUALITY CONTROL AND ASSURANCE

Automatic or manual sample flow rate calibration using an externally attached calibrator. Verification of optical performance using a set of neutral density optical filters. Automatic or manual Dynamic Active Zero and stability tests may be programmed to occur at specified time intervals.

USER INTERFACE

  • Display: 8.4” color touch-screen with basic data display and control, advanced screens for detailed reporting and parameter setup.
  • LED status indicators: Red, Yellow, Green.
  • Remote management: network ready for remote management and data transfer.
  • Optional control: standard PC keyboard and mouse via front-panel USB ports.

INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS

  • Temperature: 10°C – 40°C
  • Rel. humidity: 5% – 95% (non-condensing).  Note that it is essential to prevent condensation of humid outdoor sample air if the instrument is located in a chilled (air-conditioned) environment.
  • Indoor or sheltered use
  • Operating altitude: Sea Level to 3000 m (Operating range can be extended to 5000 m a.s.l. with an external air pump – optional accessory)
  • Relative humidity range: non-condensing.

STORAGE AND DATA OUTPUT

STORAGE

Data are written to internal memory once every time base period. Stored data may be transferred over a network or to a manually inserted USB drive.

DATA OUTPUT

  • Digital data via RS-232 COM port and Ethernet
  • Analog output via AOM module

PHYSICAL SPECIFICATIONS

  • Dimensions (HxWxD): 28 x 43 x 33 cm
  • Weight: 21 kg
  • Electrical Power supply: – AC: 100-230VAC, 50/60Hz (auto-switching)
  • Power consumption: 25 W average, 90 W maximum
  • Internal Vacuum Pump: dual diaphragm, brushless motor
  • Sampling air connectors: inlet/outlet type – ¼” NTPF
  • Communication: 3x USB type A, 3x COM, 1x Ethernet
  • Modular hardware, constructed in a fully enclosed
    19” rack mount 6U chassis, sheet metal, hermetically sealed

ACCESSORIES

  • Neutral Density Optical Filter validation kit
  • Ambient meteorological sensor with 10-m cable
  • Wind speed and direction sensor
  • Sample stream dryer
  • PM2.5 inlet (2.5 μm @ 5 LPM)
  • PM1 inlet (1 μm @ 5 LPM, 2.5 um @ 2 LPM)
  • CO2 sensor integrated with AE33 airflow & data
  • Flow Calibrator ALICAT FP-25 (0.1-25 LPM) Includes comunication cable
  • Insect Screen Assembly with Water Trap
  • Tape Sensor Calibration Disc kit
  • GPS module
  • External pump for high-altitude operation
Accessories: calibrate, validate, collect parallel data
Open
TitleAuthorPublicationYearLink
The “dual-spot” Aethalometer: an improved measurement of aerosol black carbon with real-time loading compensationL. Drinovec et.al.Atmos. Meas. Tech., 8, 1965–1979, 20152015LINK
Determination of car on-road black carbon and particle number emission factors and comparison between mobile and stationary measurementsI. Ježek et.al.Atmos. Meas. Tech., 8, 43–55, 20152015LINK
The filter loading effect by ambient aerosols in filter absorption photometers depends on the mixing state of the sampled particlesL. Drinovec et.al.Atmos. Meas. Tech., 10, 1043–1059, 20172017LINK
Evaluation of the absorption Ångström exponents for traffic and wood burning in the Aethalometer based source apportionment using radiocarbon measurements of ambient aerosolP. Zotter et.al.Atmos. Chem. Phys., 17, 4229–4249, 20172017LINK
The determination of highly time-resolved and source-separated black carbon emission rates using radon as a tracer of atmospheric dynamicsA. Gregorič et.al.Atmos. Chem. Phys., 20, 14139–14162, 20202020LINK

ALICAT FP-25 FLOW METER CALIBRATOR KIT

FP-25 Calibrator kit for Air Quality Monitoring needs. Portable mass flow standard that calibrates temperature, pressure, and flow for a variety of air samplers. NIST traceable readings with high accuracy for EPA reporting. Bluetooth and customized app makes remote calibration from your phone possible. Built in relative humidity sensor for even more accurate readings.

  • Flow Accuracy of +/- 1% of Reading – Even at Low Flow Rates
  • Accurate in Any Weather – From -30°C to +60°C and IP67 certified
  • Includes a relative-humidity sensor accurate up to 95% RH

Specification sheet

BGI TETRACAL AIR FLOW CALIBRATOR

The BGI ‘TetraCal’ is a simple-to-use, NIST-traceable Standard for volumetric airflow, barometric pressure, and ambient temperature.  The TetraCal is a venturi-based system with built-in compensation for changes in ambient temperature and pressure.  The TetraCal may be directly connected to the Aethalometer model AE33 for air flow calibration.

SAMPLE STREAM DRYER

Drying the aerosol sample stream is highly recommended to provide accurate measurement data and protect the water condensation equipment.

In hot, humid locations, the water vapor content of the ambient sample air may be considerable.  This can lead to inaccuracies in the BC measurement – but, more seriously, there is the possibility of water condensation inside the instrument, which can lead to permanent damage.  This issue is solved by the use of our Sample Stream Dryer.

The interaction of water with aerosol species changes their physical properties.  Consequently, the World Meteorological Organization has recommended that all aerosol measurements should be performed under conditions where the Relative Humidity is 40% or lower (WMO/GAW 2003; Wiedensohler, 2014).

Many stations in hot, humid locations have air-conditioned interiors.  If the indoor air-conditioning temperature Ta is comparable to or lower than the dewpoint (condensation temperature) Td of the outside ambient air, water will condense in the tubing and inside the instrument.  This will not only completely invalidate the data but can also cause permanent damage to the instrument.

The Aerosol Magee Scientific Sample Stream Dryer removes water vapor from the inlet flow using a semi-permeable Nafion membrane.  This membrane selectively absorbs water vapor molecules from the air stream and passes them to a space on the other side of the membrane, maintained at low absolute pressure using a vacuum pump.

The Sample Stream Dryer can reduce the dew point temperature by up to 14 degrees Celsius at a flow rate of 5 LPM.  The equipment is self-contained, automatic, and includes a display screen that shows the input and output hygrometric properties.  A data cable can connect to the Aethalometer to incorporate the temperature and humidity data into the Aethalometer’s data files.

The Sample Stream Dryer can remove water vapor from the inlet stream to any aerosol instrument, not just the Aethalometer.

NEUTRAL DENSITY OPTICAL VALIDATION KIT

The Neutral Density Optical Filter Kit provides validation of the reproducibility of the photometric detectors.

The optical performance of the Aethalometer may be validated in the field by the ‘Neutral Density Optical Filter Kit’, consisting of glass inserts made of stable and broad-spectrum absorbing materials, with well-defined optical transmittance. Software routines measure the optical intensities at all wavelengths and compare the analysis during the test with the original reference values.  This validates the reproducibility of the Aethalometer’s fundamental measurement of optical Attenuation.

WEATHER STATION SENSORS

Our new family of Weather station sensors for measurements of Air temperature, Pressure, Relative/Absolute humidity, Wind speed, and Wind direction consists of:

1. The GMX300 Ambient Meteorological Sensor is a combined instrument mounted inside three doubled louvered, naturally aspirated radiation shields with no moving parts. It measures air temperature, humidity, and pressure.

2.The GMX200 is a Wind speed and direction ultrasonic sensor, and with an addition of an electronic compass, it provides apparent wind measurements.

3.The GMX500 is a compact weather station (with temperature, pressure, humidity, wind speed, and wind direction sensors).

For more information, please refer to the below brochure:

FILTER TAPE

The Aethalometer Model AE33 collects its samples on a proprietary filter tape made of glass fibers coated with PTFE/PET and supported on a mechanical backing for transport in the instrument.  When the spot reaches a pre-set loading density, the tape is advanced to create a new spot.  Each roll of tape is 10 m. in length and will last from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the average concentration of BC in the sampled atmosphere and the chosen operational flow rate.

SIZE-SELECTIVE INLETS

Ambient atmospheres include suspended particles of a large aerodynamic size such as pollen, dust, etc.  These particles are not strongly optically absorbing and therefore do not interfere with the Aethalometer® analysis; however, a deposit of dust in the internal optics will degrade performance after lengthy use.  To exclude large particles and provide analysis of a known respirable size fraction, we recommend using size-selective inlets designed to exclude particles of aerodynamic size greater than a specified cut point at a specified sample air flow rate.  We offer the ‘Sharp-Cut Cyclones’ designed by BGI (USA) and now manufactured by Mesa Labs (USA).  These inlets are usually attached directly to the sample inlet tube at the entry point but may also be installed in-line closer to the Aethalometer.

PM2.5 Inlet
BGI model SCC-1.828.  Provides a cut point of 2.5µm at a sample flow rate of 5 LPM.

PM1/2.5 Inlet
BGI model SCC-1.197.  Provides a cut point of 2.5µm at a sample flow rate of 2 LPM or 1µm at a sample flow rate of 5 LPM.

PM1 Inlet
BGI model SCC-0.732.  Provides a cut point of 1µm at a sample flow rate of 2 LPM.

BGI ‘Mini-PM’ Inlet Kit
The BGI ‘Mini-PM’ Inlet Kit offers impaction jet inserts to provide size-selective capabilities of TSP, PM-10, PM-4, PM-2.5, and PM-1 when operated at a flow rate of 5 LPM.

TRANSIT CASE

For situations where the Aethalometer must be shipped or transported frequently, we recommend the use of Pelican transit cases.  These provide internal padding, a sturdy waterproof exterior, and an integrated retractable handle and roller wheels.

EXTERNAL HIGH ALTITUDE (HA) AIR PUMP

The air pump inside the  Aethalometer can supply a constant sample flow rate of 5 LMP up to
approx. 3000 m a.s.l., when the sample flow rate (reported at standard conditions) will slowly decrease. To extend the operating range of the  Aethalometer up to 5000 m a.s.l. your
Aethalometer can now be connected to an external HA air pump.

External HA air pump_brochure sheet

AETHALOMETER AE33

APPLICATIONS

Mine ventilation optimization

Mine ventilation optimization

Learn how black carbon monitoring supports ventilation efficiency and cost savings in deep underground mining operations.
FIND OUT MORE

Urban maps of black carbon pollution

Urban maps of black carbon pollution

Compare personal black carbon exposure across transport modes and routes using mobile mapping in urban environments.
FIND OUT MORE

Global black carbon pollution

Global black carbon pollution

See how ultra-light aircraft measured black carbon globally to assess hotspots and long-range transport patterns.
FIND OUT MORE

Forest fire black carbon pollution

Forest fire black carbon pollution

Understand emission factors and atmospheric impacts of biomass burning through airborne and background measurements.
FIND OUT MORE

Marine vessel black carbon pollution

Marine vessel black carbon pollution

Uncover how ship emissions affect port air quality and how emission factors guide pollution control strategies.
FIND OUT MORE

Vertical profile of black carbon pollution

Vertical profile of black carbon pollution

Capture vertical profiles of black carbon to assess its role in radiative forcing and long-range transport above the PBL.
FIND OUT MORE

Black carbon car emission factors

Black carbon car emission factors

Compare stationary and mobile measurements of black carbon emission factors for real-world traffic pollution analysis.
FIND OUT MORE

Fossil fuel vs. Biomass burning black carbon

Fossil fuel vs. Biomass burning black carbon

Distinguish between fossil fuel and biomass burning sources of black carbon in urban and regional air quality studies.
FIND OUT MORE

Studies of carbonaceous aerosols with cass and acsm

Studies of carbonaceous aerosols with cass and acsm

Reveal detailed OM/OC and TC/EC/BC insights in real time by combining CASS and ACSM instruments.
FIND OUT MORE

Real time wildfire smoke monitoring

Real time wildfire smoke monitoring

Track real-time black and brown carbon from wildfires with the portable AE43 for emergency response and public health protection.
FIND OUT MORE

Off grid black carbon monitoring

Off grid black carbon monitoring

Monitor black carbon in remote locations with solar-powered AE43, offering continuous data even without grid power.
FIND OUT MORE

Mobile measurement of black carbon

Mobile measurement of black carbon

Map black and brown carbon pollution on the move with the AE43 - ideal for urban, rural, or emergency air quality assessments.
FIND OUT MORE

EC/OC- photo-ms ambient aerosol filter pad analyzer

EC/OC- photo-ms ambient aerosol filter pad analyzer

Analyze quartz fiber filters with combined EC/OC carbon analysis and molecular-level speciation using photo-ionization TOF-MS.
FIND OUT MORE

Advanced apportionment of carbonaceous aerosols

Advanced apportionment of carbonaceous aerosols

The advanced TC/BC(l) method can be used to study the influence of anthropogenic processes.
FIND OUT MORE

Airport black carbon emissions and their impact on the nearby local communities

Airport black carbon emissions and their impact on the nearby local communities

Airports, with their high traffic of jet engines and ground support equipment, are significant sources of black carbon emissions.
FIND OUT MORE

Black carbon health effects studies

Black carbon health effects studies

BC is a harmful pollutant with significant adverse effects on human health. The Aethalometer is a valuable tool in monitoring black carbon levels and aiding in healthrelated research.
FIND OUT MORE

FAQ

WHAT ARE THE MOST TYPICAL ACCESSORIES FOR AETHALOMETER?

Aethalometer is supplied with a set of standard accessories designed to ensure quick and easy setup, allowing you to start measurements without delay. We also offer a range of optional accessories and related products that enhance the instrument’s functionality and adaptability to different measurement applications. These optional accessories may include:

  • Cyclone Inlet for PM2.5 or PM1, to measure particles smaller than 2.5 mm or 1 mm
  • Meteorological Sensor for Temperature, Relative Humidity, Pressure, Wind
  • Sample Stream Dryer, to dry the inlet air in case the relative humidity is above 40%, as recommended by Global Atmospheric Watch
  • CO2 sensor

Please also check the specific Aethalometer page to learn more about accessories and related products or simply contact our support.

Bonus tip: To upgrade the measurement from black carbon to the complete carbonaceous aerosol fingerprint, add Total Carbon Analyzer to get Carbonaceous Aerosol Speciation System, CASS.

WHAT IS THE MAXIMUM INLET LENGTH?

Aethalometers are supplied with a 3-meter-long Static dissipative inlet tube. We recommend using a tube of less than 10 meters to prevent excessive particle loss and pump load.

WHAT SIZE SELECTIVE INLET, PM CUT-OFF DO I NEED?

The choice of size selective inlet for the Aethalometer depends on the application and should match inlets used with other instruments. For Aethalometer measurements of black carbon (BC) and brown carbon (BrC), a PM2.5 size-selective inlet is generally recommended to ensure accurate results. This cut-off excludes coarse particles (>2.5 µm) that could confound readings, as BC and BrC primarily originate from fine combustion particles.

WHAT IS THE FILTER TAPE CONSUMPTION RATE?

Filter tape consumption depends on black carbon concentration levels, type of sources (solid or liquid fuels; traffic or biomass burning) and sample flow. Below is a table of typical scenarios that can be used as a guide.

Flow (LPM)BC conc.*Est. life of filter tape (months) **
51.0003 – 6
53.0001 – 2
25.0001,5 – 3

* Average urban black carbon concentrations are generally below 1 µg/m³ in backgrounds in Europe and the US, around 1.5 to 5 µg/m³ in many urban areas, with peaks higher in traffic hotspots. In heavily polluted cities, levels can be five or ten times higher than in Western cities, often exceeding 5 µg/m³ in traffic zones. Concentration levels higher than 20 µg/m³ are not that uncommon, unfortunately.

** Estimated life of a 10-meter filter tape roll in months; it is longer in traffic-dominated areas compared to areas where biomass burning is the dominant source of pollution.

HOW IS THE INSTRUMENT CALIBRATED?

Aethalometer requires only flow to be calibrated. To do flow calibration the Flow Calibration Pad is needed (supplied as a standard accessory) and an external flow meter (not supplied). The procedure is simple: on the Aethalometer screen, select Quality Assurance, Quality Control, press Flow Calibration, and the Aethalometer will guide you through the complete procedure. For more details, consult the user manual or Aerosol Magee Scientific YouTube channel.

HOW OFTEN DOES THE INSTRUMENT NEED TO BE CALIBRATED?

The frequency of flow calibrations and other QA/QC procedures depends on each institution’s Standard Operating Procedures. We recommend performing flow verification twice a year and flow calibration if needed.

WHAT ARE ALL THE NECESSARY CONSUMABLES FOR AETHALOMETER FOR ONE YEAR OF CONTINUOUS OPERATION?

All that is needed is a filter tape (roll) and a cartridge filter. For the uninterrupted one-year operation, we recommend purchasing 3-4 filter tape rolls and 1 cartridge filter, which should be enough for most applications.

Need more answers?

No need to worry. More FAQs can also be found on Aethalometer page or simply contact our support.

HEADQUARTERS

Aerosol d.o.o.
Kamniška 39A
1000 Ljubljana
Slovenia, Europe
+386 1 4391 700

USA Office

Aerosol USA Corp.
10157 SW Barbur Blvd Suite 100C
Portland, OR 97219 USA
+1 510 646 1600

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