ISO 21083-1:2018

Overview

ISO 21083-1:2018 defines a standardized test method to measure the efficiency of air filtration media against spherical nanomaterials in the size range 20 nm to 500 nm. The standard specifies the testing instruments, test rig configuration and step‑by‑step procedures to determine fractional filtration efficiencies of flat‑sheet filter media when challenged with airborne, spherical (or nearly spherical) nanoparticles. Test methods are deliberately limited to near‑spherical particles to reduce uncertainty from particle shape.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Test scope: Filtration efficiency measurement for flat sheet filter media against nanoparticles from 20–500 nm; spherical particle limitation.
• Test aerosols: Includes liquid‑phase aerosol generation (e.g., DEHS test aerosol) and procedures for aerosol conditioning.
• Instrumentation & setup: Detailed requirements for aerosol generation, tubing, dryers, neutralizers, CPC instruments, DEMC components, make‑up air lines and filter mounting assemblies.
• Neutralization & charge control: Procedures to establish equilibrium charge distribution and qualification of aerosol neutralizers to limit electrostatic artefacts.
• Qualification & calibration: Tests for CPC performance (zero, overload, counting accuracy), DEMC qualification, leak checks, aerosol uniformity and neutralizer checks.
• Test procedure: Preparatory checks, airflow and pressure‑drop measurement, zero‑count tests, leakage and loading effect tests, and protocols for measuring upstream/downstream concentrations (single or dual CPC setups).
• Data quality: Statistical treatment (precision per ISO 5725‑2), measurement uncertainty assessment and required reporting elements.
• Safety & maintenance: Annexes cover instrument specifications, safe use of solvents (IPA) and handling of radioactive devices where applicable.

Applications and who uses it

• Filter manufacturers: Validate and compare filter media performance against nanoparticle penetration.
• Independent test laboratories: Provide accredited test reports for product certification and regulatory compliance.
• PPE and respirator developers: Assess filter elements used in personal protective equipment against nanoscale aerosol exposures.
• HVAC and cleanroom engineers: Specify filters for environments sensitive to nanoparticle contamination.
• Occupational health & environmental agencies: Establish test-backed performance claims for air pollution control and workplace safety.

Related standards

• ISO 21083 series (other parts) - related test ranges and methods
• ISO/TS 80004‑2 - nano definitions and terminology
• ISO 29461‑1 - referenced for filter medium neutralization
• ISO/TS 19713‑1 and ISO 5725‑2 - neutralizer qualification and statistical precision guidance

Keywords: ISO 21083-1:2018, air filtration media, nanoparticle filtration, filtration efficiency, DEHS aerosol, CPC, aerosol testing, 20 nm to 500 nm, neutralizer, test rig qualification.