Palas Blog Feed

M-ERA.NET 2026: Why Aerosol Technology Should Play a Role in Your Grant Proposal

Sarah Kunath — 01 Apr 2026 01:40:27 GMT

Anyone currently preparing a proposal should clarify one key question early on:

How can experiments be designed so that they are reproducible, data-ready, and efficient enough for an international research project?

Funding programs like M-ERA.NET are placing increasing emphasis on methodological aspects: high-throughput material screening, data-driven material development (AI/ML), sustainable processes, and reproducible experiments across multiple partner sites.

A technology that can address precisely these requirements is therefore gaining increasing importance in materials research: controlled aerosol generation.

What M-ERA.NET Expects from Research Projects

M-ERA.NET exclusively funds transnational projects. At least two partner institutions from different countries must collaborate—and often the same experiments are conducted at multiple sites.

For such projects to succeed, methods must meet specific requirements:

Reproducibility across multiple laboratories
Standardized process parameters
Data quality for modeling and AI methods
Efficient screening procedures for systematic material development

Grant proposals that clearly address these methodological aspects demonstrate to reviewers that a project is technically sound.

Aerosol technology as a tool for modern materials research

Aerosols play a key role in several of the six funding themes of the 2026 call—from battery electrodes and coatings to nanomaterials for electronics. They are either studied directly or used as a tool for material generation, particle characterization, or film formation.

The advantage of aerosol-based methods lies in the precise control of particle size, mass flow, and process parameters. This allows experiments to be conducted reproducibly while simultaneously varying them systematically—an important prerequisite for high-throughput screening and data-driven materials development.

Two practical examples

RBG System – Reproducible Powder Dispersion

The RBG System disperses non-cohesive powders in the size range of 0.1 to 200 µm with high dosing consistency. The mass flow—ranging from 0.04 to 800 g/h—can be reproducibly determined from physical parameters such as feed rate and bulk density.

This makes the system suitable for, among other things:

Battery electrodes and catalyst materials
Filter and coating studies
Inhalation and particle investigations

DNP digital 3000 – controlled nanoparticle generation

For research in the nanometer range, the DNP digital 3000 offers a precise method for nanoparticle generation. Particles in the range of 20 to 350 nm are generated by spark discharge between two electrodes.

In addition to graphite, copper, silver, or gold electrodes can also be used. The generator is also established as a calibration device in the Particle Measurement Program (PMP)—a quality feature that may also be relevant in grant applications.

What this means for your grant application

The use of established experimental methods signals to reviewers that a project has a robust methodological infrastructure.

Aerosol-based systems can, for example, support:

reproducible process parameters
standardized experiments across multiple partner sites
automated data acquisition
integration into data-driven material development approaches

This enables both comparable experiments in international consortia and systematic material investigations to be carried out efficiently.

Seasonal Closing

Sarah Kunath — 04 Dec 2025 06:56:53 GMT

Seasonal Closing:

December 20, 2025 – January 6, 2026. We will return on January 7, 2026.

For urgent technical issues, our service support team will remain available.(Service Hotline:+49 (0)721 96213-555) )

Please note: Our shipping department will close on December 16, 2025, and our goods receiving department will close on December 18, 2025.

Both will reopen on January 7, 2026.

Webinar Series: Air Quality Forum

Sarah Kunath — 09 May 2025 10:12:34 GMT

You missed the live event?

No problem! We are excited to offer you a second chance:

Each session focuses on crucial aspects of the new directive — from political drivers to legal obligations for cities

We will start with the first four sessions followed by a webinar about Palas solutions.

10.06.2025: Thomas Henrichs, Deputy Head of the Clean Air & Urban Policy Unit (European Commission): Political Drivers and Obstacles on the Way to the Directive.
11.06.2025: Rosamund Adoo-Kissi-Debrah & Jeffery K. Smith (Ella Roberta Foundation): New Insights Leading to the WHO Air Quality Guidelines.
17.06.2025: Anna-Lena Franke (Deutsche Umwelthilfe e.V.): Most Important Changes to the Old Directive and Main Demands: An Overview.
18.06.2025: Emma Bud (ClientEarth): Legal Obligations and Opportunities for Cities.
*New* - 25.06.2025: Dr. Stefan Hogekamp: AAQD Directive (EU) 2024/2881: Practical Solutions to Meet These New Challenges.

Registration

Comprehensive Environmental Monitoring Now Also with Noise Monitoring

Sarah Kunath — 01 Apr 2025 11:16:58 GMT

Thanks to the option of an integrated sound level meter (Class 1 according to the IEC61672 standard) from our partner NTI Audio, the system now also enables precise recording of noise levels, allowing environmental pollution to be analyzed even more comprehensively.

All the data collected – including wind direction, wind speed and other meteorological parameters – is clearly displayed on our myAtmosphere data platform. This enables real-time, transparent analysis and provides in-depth insights into the impact of various emissions on air quality and noise pollution.

With cloud connectivity, remote monitoring and automated reports, the AQ Guard Smart System is the ideal solution for government agencies, research institutions and businesses that require comprehensive environmental monitoring.

A wide range of applications

The AQ Guard Smart System is suitable for a wide range of applications, including:

Urban air and noise analysis to optimize environmental and transportation strategies
Monitoring industrial emissions to ensure compliance and protect local residents
Research projects investigating the relationship between air quality, noise and health
Construction and infrastructure projects to meet environmental requirements and minimize noise pollution
Monitoring in nature reserves to assess long-term environmental impacts

This is how well-informed decisions can be made to sustainably improve the quality of life and the environment.

Air Quality Forum 2025

Sarah Kunath — 10 Dec 2024 06:47:44 GMT

Karlsruhe, Brussels – From February26 to 27, 2025, Palas GmbH will host the Air Quality Forum 2025 in Brussels. This year’s event focuses on the new European Air Quality Directive, the latest changes, their implementation, and the implications.

The European Commission, the Council, and the Parliament have agreed on a revision of the Air Quality Directive 2008/50/EC. This revision introduces tangible and significant changes that will now lead to concrete actions and impacts. The Air Quality Forum 2025 serves as a platform to thoroughly analyze and discuss these new developments.

The New European Air Quality Directive within the Framework of the Green Deal
The forum will focus on the motivation and key changes of the directive, their impact on various stakeholders, and the legal implications. Another emphasis will be on the challenges of implementation and the technologies necessary. Emerging trends and future developments in air quality management will also be highlighted. Various solutions in cities and regions, the use of hybrid networks, and the need for new technical standards will be discussed. The topics will be considered in an international context, illustrated by examples from Spain, Italy, and Malaysia.

Renowned Experts from Around the World
The event will be moderated by Prof. Dr.-Ing. habil Achim Dittler, professor at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology. Political drivers and obstacles of the new Air Quality Directive will be explored by a team led by François Wakenhut, Head of the Clean Air Unit of the European Commission. Insights into the discussions that led to the current WHO recommendations will be provided by Jeffery Smith, a WHO advisor. The role of Sentinel-5p satellites in monitoring air quality will be presented by Dr. Claus Zehner from ESA. Annalena Franke from Deutsche Umwelthilfe and Emma Bud from ClientEarth will discuss the legal and political aspects of the directive, while Dr. Josef Cyrys from the Helmholtz Zentrum München will present new research findings on the health effects of air pollutants. Additional experts from around the world underscore the importance of this topic.

From Cities to Industry – Who Will Be Affected by the New Air Quality Directive
The conference is aimed at cities, industry representatives, governments, organizations, and interested individuals who are interested in the changes due to the new directive and its implications. The presentations and discussions will be conducted in English.

The forum is organized by Palas GmbH, expert in aerosol technology for 40 years, who possess extensive knowledge and connections in the field of air quality monitoring. The company is committed to promoting dialogue and bringing the right stakeholders together to work towards cleaner and healthier air.

Further Information and Registration
Details about the program and registration can be found on the official website of the Air Quality Forum 2025: www.airqualityforum.com

Contact
Palas GmbH
Siemensallee 84 | Building 7330 | 76229 Karlsruhe
Phone: +49 721 96213-0
Website: www.palas.de

More Information

EU Formally Adopts Revised Air Quality Directive: Stricter Standards for 2030

Sarah Kunath — 14 Oct 2024 12:03:25 GMT

Today, the EU formally adopted the revised Ambient Air Quality Directive (AAQD), marking a significant milestone in Europe’s efforts to improve air quality. While the revision has been long in the making, today’s formal adoption is the final step before its publication in the EU's Official Journal, after which it will officially come into force. With this directive, the EU sets a global benchmark for air quality regulations and advances efforts to meet the World Health Organization (WHO) air quality guidelines by 2030.

At Palas GmbH, we recognize the critical importance of this development for public health and environmental protection. The revised AAQD establishes binding limits and targets for major pollutants, particularly for fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), with significantly stricter standards to be achieved by 2030. Other pollutants, like ultrafine particles (UFP) and black carbon (BC), now also become mandatory to measure. Importantly, the first assessment to check whether member states are on the right track to comply with these limits will take place by 2028. This makes it clear that infrastructure and clean air plans must be defined and built as soon as possible—now—in order to be ready for the 2028 “stress test.”

The directive requires EU member states to transpose the legislation into national law within two years. At Palas GmbH, we are fully prepared to support governments and industries in meeting these ambitious goals. Our advanced air quality monitoring and measurement solutions are designed to meet the new, more stringent standards, ensuring compliance and providing the accurate data necessary to take timely action if thresholds are exceeded. With lower limits becoming due, precise measurements are becoming even more important.

In addition to setting stricter limits, the revised AAQD also strengthens monitoring requirements and introduces provisions for citizens to seek compensation if their health is harmed by air pollution. This increases the pressure on both industries and governments to take swift and effective measures to meet the new air quality standards.

The directive will be a key focus at the upcoming Air Quality Forum. Experts from industry, science, and policy will explore the implications of this landmark legislation and the technological innovations required to meet the 2030 targets.

Visit our website to learn more about our innovative solutions and the Air Quality Forum.

Invisible Problem with Tangible Consequences

Sarah Kunath — 11 Oct 2024 12:07:30 GMT

Our partner Envitech Bohemia launched a comprehensive project to investigate the impact of residential heating systems on air quality in three cities within the South Moravian Region. The project aimed to collect detailed data on aerosol particle concentrations of various sizes, with the goal of raising awareness about the issue and providing a foundation for air quality improvement measures.

Read the story

Filter Testing Services

Sarah Kunath — 01 Aug 2024 02:09:58 GMT

For nearly four decades, Palas has been at the forefront of filter testing innovation. Our advanced technology and expertise have established us as a market leader, providing a wide range of specialized filter testing systems.

We are excited to announce our comprehensive filter testing services, carefully designed to meet the highest standards of efficiency and safety across various industries.

Our testing services adhere to international standards such as ISO 16890, EN 779, ISO 29463, and many more. We offer testing for a wide range of filters, including HEPA & ULPA filters, flat sheet media, general ventilation air filters, engine air filters, cabin air filters, and many others.

Additionally, we offer on-site measurements, such as particle size distribution and concentration analysis, as well as workplace and ambient air measurements.

More Information

Sunny Insights from the Sonnblick Observatory

Marie Bohlen — 26 Mar 2024 02:25:13 GMT

Situated at the Sonnblick Observatory at an altitude of 3,106 meters where weather extremes are common, the Cloud Droplet Analyzer's heated sampling head ensures uninterrupted data collection. This is crucial for advancing our knowledge on how cloud formation can change due to the climate change.

But what makes the Cloud Droplet Analyzer truly special, is the wide range of locations where the device can be set up. No matter if it’s the desert of Jordan or at a measuring station in the middle of Antarctica. Demanding weather conditions don’t stop the device to present you with accurate and valuable data.

As climate change continues to alter our planet's weather patterns, understanding these complex interactions is more important than ever. The Cloud Droplet Analyzer's data will be instrumental in refining our predictions for the future climate, offering hope for better-prepared societies.

Look at some of the photos our colleague Sergej Sel took while installing the Cloud Droplet Analyzer at the Sonnblick Observatory:

More information about the Cloud Droplet Analyzer: Cloud Droplet Analyzer

Palas is moving

Sarah Kunath — 15 Dec 2023 10:29:38 GMT

We are currently in a significant transition: After years at Greschbachstraße 3b, we are relocating within Karlsruhe to Siemensallee. This move is a strategic step to accommodate our continuous growth and evolving needs, especially in production.

Our commitment to 'Made in Karlsruhe' remains strong, and this new location offers vast opportunities for further development of our product portfolio.

This move is more than a change of location; it's a leap towards greater innovation and efficiency, ensuring that we continue to offer you the best in our field.

From 1 January 2024 the address of our headquarters will be:

Palas GmbH
Siemensallee 84
Building 7330
76187 Karlsruhe

The current phone numbers remain the same. From 1 January 2024, please send all goods to above address.

Palas: Pioneers in Aerosol Measurement Technology Since the 80s

Marie Bohlen — 31 Oct 2023 01:05:56 GMT

The Birth of Palas – 1983

In 1983, a trio of visionaries - Leander Mölter, Fritz Munzinger, and Wolfgang Mölter -laid the foundation for what would become Palas GmbH. This year marked the birth of Palas' first groundbreaking device, the RGB. Collaborating with Dr. Holländer and the Fraunhofer Gesellschaft, the RGB quickly gained the industry’s recognition. Its achievements included winning the prestigious innovation prize of the state of Baden-Württemberg, the Dr.-Rudolf-Eberle-Preis.

Just three years later, in 1986, Palas reached another milestone by acquiring their first license for the PCS System. This propelled the company to the forefront of aerosol measurement technology. The PCS System marked a successful entry into the construction of reproducible filter test systems, setting the stage for Palas' continued growth and innovation.

A Legacy of Innovation - The 1990s

In the 1990s Palas introduced the welas®aerosol spectrometer, setting the benchmark for precise particle sizing. Remarkably, this technology has continued to serve various industries for three decades and counting. While we can't explain the connection between Charlie Chaplin and welas®, just as Chaplin pushed the boundaries of silent film, Palas pushed the boundaries of aerosol analysis with welas®.

Entering the New Millennium with Innovation - The 2000s

As the new millennium dawned, Palas brought forth the MFP 3000, a cutting-edge Modular Filter Test rig. Initially created for a specific customer, it soon became an industry standard. The MFP 3000 G's compliance with ISO 16890 is a testament to its excellence. Palas also focused on enhancing the overall customer experience, addressing unique requirements from device specifications to on-site assembly.

2010s: Commitment to Innovation and Customer Satisfaction

In 2010, Palas demonstrated its unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction by delivering a specialized filter test rig that overcame significant challenges. In 2013, the company introduced the Fidas®, a real-time fine dust monitor for air quality measurement and regulatory monitoring. Its compliance with EN 16450 and TÜV standards made it a trusted choice worldwide.

Meeting Global Challenges in the 2020s

The 2020s presented the world with unprecedented challenges, most notably the COVID-19 pandemic. During this critical time, Palas leveraged its expertise and technology to combat the virus. Innovative devices like Mas-Q-Check and PMFT were introduced for mask testing. The Resp-Aer-Meter enabled the determination of virus-sized particles in the air, contributing to public health efforts.Natural disasters also highlighted the importance of air quality monitoring. In 2021, Palas flew to the island of La Palma to support Spanish authorities by promptly providing AQ Guard Smart Systems for monitoring air quality at various locations on the island, particularly in response to the eruption of the Cumbre Vieja.

As we look back on Palas' remarkable journey from the 80s to the present day, it is evident that this company has consistently been at the forefront of aerosol measurement technology, driving progress and shaping the future. With a legacy of innovation, dedication to customer satisfaction, and a commitment to addressing global challenges, Palas GmbH continues to be a trailblazer in its field.

Bosch and Karlsruhe-based measuring technology specialist Palas team up for better air quality

Sarah Kunath — 21 Sep 2023 08:05:21 GMT

Palas will supply comprehensive know-how and technology for measuring a wide variety of gases and airborne particles. In the course of the partnership, Palas will also add the Environmental Connected Box (ECoB) measurement device developed by Bosch to its own portfolio and expand its product range. Bosch is to contribute cloud-based services such as device management and a software model that generates traffic emission data in real-time. In addition, dispersion models help locate pollution hot spots, so that pinpointed countermeasures can be defined. The benefit of this alliance will be a comprehensive portfolio for environmentally sensitive urban traffic management, as well as for fenceline monitoring of the concentration of substances in air at companies’ property lines.

Working together with specialized integrators that coordinate all the partners involved in a project, Bosch and Palas will support city authorities and the operators of large industrial complexes. Their compatible products and services will create the basis for reliably and sustainably improving air quality. “With its analyses and simulations, Bosch technology complements Palas’s measuring technology,” says Christoph Kern, head of the Connected Powertrain Solution business unit at Bosch. This allows the actual number and placement of measurement devices required in the long term to be determined and put into cost-efficient operation in cities and at industrial sites. “The combination of Palas measurement devices and Bosch cloud services can help satisfy air pollution limits now and in the future,” says Palas CEO Dr. Maximilian Weiß. First projects with integrators both inside and outside Germany are already in preparation and are slated to start shortly.

Two strong companies joining forces

Palas air quality measurement devices are already in use worldwide in official air-quality measurement networks. A range of certified measurement devices is available for various requirements, including EN particulate matter measurements. Now being expanded with the ECoB measurement device, it means that customers are no longer dependent on official measuring stations in many cases. It will be possible to carry out reliable measurements exactly where appropriate.

Bosch’s focus within the partnership will be on cloud connectivity and device management, including firmware over-the-air (FOTA) updates, remote diagnostics, and software recalibrations on an as-required basis. These services shall be gradually rolled out to the existing Palas hardware. Additional Bosch services will process readings and allow both air quality and the contributory sources of emission to be assessed. This includes fine-tuned evaluations of traffic emissions and their expected dispersion in the environment in real-time. Based on real traffic emission data, Bosch’s high-resolution 3D dispersion simulation can simulate the effects of different traffic control measures and thus identify the best strategies for reducing air pollution.

Strong market growth expected

On September 13, 2023, the EU Parliament voted to significantly tighten pollution limits, including those for particulate matter. Compliance with daily mean and annual limits will require further action. And it is precisely in this context that the solutions offered by Bosch and Palas can assist cities, regions, and companies in Europe and beyond.

More information:

https://count.palas.de/ecob/

Press contact:

Palas GmbH

Sarah Kunath

Corporate Communications

Phone: 0721 96213 132

Email: sarah.kunath@palas.de

Pictures

Picture 1:Air quality monitors for ambient air

Measuring devices from Palas like the ECoB provide reliable, exact information about the air quality and can be used for a variety of applications for ambient air.

Picture 2: Dispersion simulation as a decision-supporting tool

Based on real traffic emission data, Bosch’s high-resolution 3D dispersion simulation can simulate the effects of different traffic control measures and thus help to identify the best strategies for reducing air pollution.

Picture 3: Cooperation for better air

Dr. Maximilian Weiß, CEO Palas GmbH, and Dr. Marko Babic, heading the Bosch product area Air Quality Solutions (from right), with a newly installed measurement device ECoB (Environmental Connected Box).

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40 years of Palas

Sarah Kunath — 12 Sep 2023 02:19:42 GMT

From our beginnings on September 12th 1983, we've grown to become a leading developer and manufacturer in aerosol technology. Our journey has been shaped by cutting-edge research, dedicated teamwork, and the commitment to quality.

We thank our valued customers, partners, and the incredible Palas team for great cooperation throughout the years. Together, we've achieved remarkable milestones, and the future holds even more exciting opportunities.

Here's to 40 years of innovation in aerosol technology!

Fine Dust Measurements during demolition and dismantling work

Sarah Kunath — 28 Feb 2023 12:53:05 GMT

Karlsruhe/Longuich. Together, SGS INSTITUT FRESENIUS and Palas help to control possible impairments caused by fine dust from construction, demolition or dismantling work. This enables more effective and (energy-) efficient dust prevention. To improve occupational safety and immission protection, SGS INSTITUT FRESENIUS works closely with planning offices and the companies which carrying out the work on site, carries out local measurements using measuring technology from Palas and takes care of the necessary documentation.

An analysis that took place as part of the "London Atmospheric Emissions Inventory (LAEI) 2019" shows how relevant construction sites can be with regard to particulate matter pollution in a city: 30% of the fine dust fraction PM₁₀ originates from construction sites. In addition, depending on the material moved or processed, hazardous substances can be distributed over large areas.

Fine dust as a health-relevant factor in the outside air became a bigger focus than ever before: Therefore numerous cities and communities pay attention to local-temporal emission sources in addition to existing air pollution control measures, in particular to protect the justified interests of residents by prescribing project-specific air quality monitoring in the course of the approval procedure. However, this is often done by reference to the Bergerhoff method, which describes the analysis of collected dust precipitation after a defined period of time. Even though this is useful for chemical content analysis, it is not suitable for optimizing processes on the construction site in terms of dust prevention or even for providing authorities and residents with relevant measurement data and further information on actual fine dust pollution in a timely manner.

Particularly in the case of demolition projects in inner-city areas or large-scale dismantling projects with contaminated building materials and soils, it is essential to keep a constant eye on the effectiveness of the dust-preventing or dust-reducing measures implemented and to ensure the ability of the construction site operator to respond. Not least for reasons of energy efficiency, dust-reducing measures should be applied at the same time as needed - this is also made possible by continuous measurements in real time. Wolfgang Schreier, Division Manager NonLab in SGS's Industries & Environment business unit, points out the additional customer benefits: "With outdoor air measurements as an addition to our range of services, which already includes soil and water analysis, we will be offering everything from a single source in future. This considerably simplifies the processes for the project partners in their day-to-day business".

At the same time, it is often useful to share current measured values with residents via a special project website, for example. This is easy to implement through the cloud-based data management of Palas and contributes to improved communication between all stakeholders involved in a construction project. "Owners, investors and construction site operators should definitely evaluate the holistic concept, which addresses the factors of occupational health and safety, immission protection, energy efficiency and external communication, from an ESG perspective as well and identify associated opportunities," says Claudio Heitkamp, Director of Strategy and Business Development at Palas, summarizing the approach.

About Palas

Palas GmbH is a leading developer and manufacturer of high-precision instruments for the generation, measurement and characterization of particles in the air. With numerous active patents, Palasdevelops technologically leading and certified fine dust and nanoparticle measuring instruments, aerosol spectrometers, generators and sensors as well as associated systems and software solutions. Palas was founded in 1983 and employs about 100 people at its headquarters in Karlsruhe.

About SGS INSTITUT FRESENIUS

SGS INSTITUT FRESENIUS is part of the SGS Group, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company. With more than 97,000 employees, SGS operates a network of more than 2,700 offices and laboratories worldwide. SGS ensures that products and services comply with global standards and local regulations. Thanks to its worldwide network of experts with local knowledge combined with unparalleled experience and expertise in practical every sector, SGS's services cover the entire supply chain from raw materials to end use.

Press Contact:

Palas GmbH

Sarah Kunath

Corporate Communications

Phone: +49 721 96213 132

E-Mail: sarah.kunath@palas.de

Air quality measurements in the city of Ettlingen

Sarah Kunath — 09 Jan 2023 03:43:07 GMT

Ettlingen/Karlsruhe, January 9th, 2023 +++ Making the invisible visible - under this motto, the city of Ettlingen, together with Stadtwerke Ettlingen and Palas GmbH from Karlsruhe, have started a pilot project to measure the current air quality values in the city at various locations and make the collected data available on the municipal homepage.

Five fine dust measuring devices have recently been installed at the city train station, at the gas station at Seehof, on the tower of Ettlingen's city hall, and on the roof of Ettlingen's public utility company. More are to follow in the city area and individual districts. The aim is to record the air quality at the various locations in order to obtain a better picture of possible health risks. With this project, the city of Ettlingen is taking an important step towards creating and maintaining a healthy and sustainable living environment. The collected particulate matter data is made available to the citizens on the website of the city of Ettlingen. Thus, all citizens of Ettlingen have the opportunity to reliably inform themselves about the actual air quality and, if necessary - as far as possible - to adjust their daily routine accordingly. They can be accessed at the following link: https://www.ettlingen.de/umweltsensoren .

Responsible for the project of the city of Ettlingen is head of the main office and digitalization officer Andreas Kraut with his interdepartmental project team. Stadtwerke Ettlingen GmbH as the city's infrastructure service provider with Florian Kraft took over the installation of the fine dust measuring devices from theAQ Guard Smart series. The latest member of the Palas product family is a compact, cloud-enabled and MCERTS certified measuring device for determining air quality. In addition to the usual PM_2.5 and PM₁₀ particulate matter values, the device also displays temperature, humidity and pressure as well as the pollutant gases SO₂, NO₂, CO and O₃ at sensitive, high-traffic locations.

In addition, Palas is testing the integration of the environmental sensors into the city's existing, area-wide LoRaWAN network (Long Range Wide Area Network), because this transmission technology is increasingly used by municipalities in particular.

Easy implementation and integration for municipalities, precise and up-to-date measurement data for all

All devices installed in Ettlingen transmit data directly to Palas GmbH's cloud-based environmental measurement system "MyAtmosphere". In the future, the city of Ettlingen will receive the data via this system without detours and up-to-date on its website.

The optical particle analysis used is also used for the nationwide official measurement of fine dust. This technology determines the particulate matter values immediately without post-evaluation and correction, regardless of weather conditions or time of day.

The city of Ettlingen is thus consistently pursuing its path towards further digitization and transparency towards its citizens - another building block in its digitization strategy.

Mayor Johannes Arnold says: "We are pleased that we were able to install these devices in Ettlingen together with the company Palas and we are excited about the long-term evaluations." Andreas Kraut adds, "It is exciting to observe how the air quality changes over the course of the day - depending on the traffic situation, time of year, weather situation, temperature, etc."

Air pollution - underestimated risk

"With our technology, the city of Ettlingen is able to give its population more transparency and more safety. Air pollution is unfortunately not taken seriously enough yet it has a great impact on us and our environment" summarizes Henrik Hof, product manager of Palas GmbH.

Air pollution is the biggest environmental health risk in Europe. Every year, more than seven million people die as a result of air pollution, according to the WHO. 96% of the urban population was exposed to particulate matter concentrations above the new World Health Organization (WHO) guideline value of 5 µg/m³ (PM_2.5) in 2021.

The European Commission has set a 2030 target to reduce premature deaths from particulate matter by at least 55% compared to 2005. To this end, the EU's air quality directives are being revised and adapted to the WHO recommendations.

The Palas solution - precision is what counts

Reliable measurement accuracy is therefore even more important than before in order to take appropriate measures to protect people and the environment. Palas measuring instruments offer the necessary precision and reliability here. Using state-of-the-art optical measurement technology that measures optical light scattering from individual particles, Palas measuring instruments count every single particle in the air. This guarantees precise measurement results and reliable data even at very low particle concentrations.

> Download

Picture 1: AQ Guard Smart System: Compact, precise, certified

Picture 2: AQ Guard Smart System

European approval for the Fidas® Smart System

Sarah Kunath — 25 Nov 2022 09:55:18 GMT

++ Karlsruhe, 11/25/2022. TheFidas® Smart System developed by Palas GmbH in Karlsruhe is now fully EN 16450 certified. It received approval for PM₁₀ from TÜV Rheinland on 11/14/2022. Approval for PM_2.5 was already granted in April 2022, making Fidas^® Smart 100 the world's smallest fine dust monitor for regulatory measurements to determine ambient air quality.

For the Fidas^® Smart system, the proven and modern technology of the Fidas^® 200, which is also EN 16450 certified, has been further developed. Both devices use the principle of optical light scattering measurements as well as an extended signal analysis for the simultaneous and precise determination of PM₁₀ and PM_2.5. Like all Palasfine dust measuring devices, they can be calibrated directly and easily by the operator on site.

With a control unit dimension of 240 - 320 - 190 mm, the measuring device is as large as a shoebox and can be conveniently used even in tight spaces and difficult installation conditions. An already integrated WLAN and LTE functionality facilitates wireless installation and enables fast deployment.

In addition to its compactness, the Fidas^® Smart System features even lower power consumption compared to the Fidas^® System. In 24/7 operation, this saves the user several thousand euros per year compared to devices from other manufacturers. The system is available in different configurations and can therefore be adapted to budgetary requirements. The Fidas^® Smart system provides data on the sources of particulate matter and thus supports the assessment of emissions from road traffic or other carbon-based sources. This allows, for example, traffic control for air pollution control to be more efficient.

Fidas^® Smart 100 is optionally available with a sampling tube for installation in measurement containers.

Like the Fidas^® System, the Fidas^® Smart System can also be connected to the cloud-based data platform MyAtmosphere.net. This enables continuous, intuitive recording and visualization of all measured values from different stations in real time.

European standard for continuous fine dust measurement

In accordance with the EN 16450 standard, the system has proven its reliability and equivalence to the gravimetric reference in laboratory tests as well as in a wide range of field tests at different times of the year.

The compactness of the device enables authorities, environmental associations, and industry to set up measuring points very easily, to expand the number of measuring points or to use it for hotspots in a variable and legally compliant manner without the need for an elaborate measuring infrastructure.

Both the WHO and the EU have emphatically demanded a further tightening of the limit values as well as an increase in the number of measuring points. With the Fidas® Smart System, Palasoffers tailor-made and efficient solutions for the future challenges to the official measuring systems.

>Fidas® Smart System

Press contact:

Palas GmbH

Sarah Kunath

Corporate Communication

Phone: +49 721 96213132

E-Mail: Sarah.Kunath@palas.de

Picture 1: Precise and compact: Fidas^® Smart System

Picture 2: Fidas® Smart 100 in Stockholm

Picture 3: A measuring device for all kind of conditions

Holzöfen als klimaneutrale Alternative zur Gasheizung? (German)

Sarah Kunath — 29 Sep 2022 06:10:42 GMT

Dass die Belastung der Atemluft durch Holzofen-Rauchgase auch zu Umwelt- und Gesundheitsproblemen führen kann, wird in letzter Zeit immer häufiger in der Presse diskutiert. Professor Dittler vom KIT ist einer der Wissenschaftler, der sich mit diesem Themenkomplex befasst.

Was ist an Holzofen-Rauchgasen problematisch?

Durch die Verbrennung von Holz werden feste und gasförmige Schadstoffe in unterschiedlicher Konzentration frei: Feinstaub, dazu gehört krebserregender Ruß, und Schadgase wie CO, Benzol und Formaldehyd. Oftmals wird nicht nur einfach Holz verbrannt, auch Braunkohlebriketts, lackierte Möbel oder Abfall werden zum Heizen verwendet. Dadurch gelangen weitere Schadstoffe in die Luft, beispielsweise Benzol, Furane, Dioxine und Blausäure (Holzofenmessungen (verenum.ch) ). Gerade kleine Feinstaubpartikel im Größenbereich kleiner als 2,5 Mikrometer (PM_2.5) haben ganz konkrete gesundheitliche Auswirkungen. Das Einatmen größerer Menge kann zu oxidativem Stress führen und Erkrankungen zum Beispiel der Lunge oder des Herz-Kreislauf-Systems zur Folge haben ( Leo_Stellungnahme_SaubereLuft_2019_Web_03.pdf (leopoldina.org )). Die FAZ spricht hier sogar vom „lautlosen Killer“ ( https://www.faz.net/aktuell/wissen/heizen-mit-holz-ist-weder-umweltfreundlich-noch-nachhaltig-18337589.html ).

Lautlos nicht nur, weil man Feinstaub in der Regel nicht sieht oder hört, sondern weil er auch nicht ausreichend gemessen wird – zu mindestens nicht in ländlichen Gebieten und kleineren Städten. In größeren Städten findet die Thematik durch Verkehr und Baustellen mehr Beachtung. Hier werden immer größere Messnetze aufgebaut.

In kleineren Städten und ländlichen Gegenden dagegen gibt es viel zu wenig offizielle Messstationen, die dann auch flächendeckend, kontinuierlich im relevanten Messbereich Daten erfassen. Kontinuierlich bedeutet, dass die Belastung immer, jeden Tag und nicht nur als Jahresdurchschnittswert erfasst wird. In Wohngebieten wird die Qualität der Atemluft nur unzureichend erfasst. Daher hat Professor Dittler im Rahmen eines Forschungsvorhabens selbst 2020 ein Messgerät in Stutensee bei Karlsruhe aufgestellt. Seitdem macht er immer wieder auf das Thema aufmerksam. Das Ergebnis: Werden in den Abend- und Nachstunden Komfortöfen betrieben, ist die Belastung der Atemluft mit lungengängigem Feinstaub im Stundenmittel um ein Mehrfaches höher als am Stuttgarter Neckartor.

Mehr noch: Durch den Betrieb eines Holzofens war an einem Abend die öffentliche Sicherheit in einem Wohngebiet in Stutensee konkret gefährdet. Holzofen-Rauchgase drangen – durch direkte Zuleitung auf die Häuser– über technische Lüftungssysteme in mehrere Wohngebäude ein. Mehrere Menschen berichteten im unmittelbaren Zusammenhang mit dem Ereignis von Kopfschmerzen und Übelkeit, Symptomen einer leichten Rauchgasvergiftung.

Doch warum gibt es keine ausreichenden Informationen für Anwohner?

Warum werden keine Messtationen aufgebaut? Nun kann man natürlich sagen: Die Thematik mit den Holzöfen, die ist noch nicht so bekannt. Die Gemeinden und Kommunen wissen nicht, wie sie Feinstaub richtig messen können und was dabei wichtig ist. Und die richtigen Messgeräte sind schwierig zu finden.

Doch das stimmt nicht. Im Februar dieses Jahres haben wir die betroffene Stadt Stutensee angeschrieben, mit dem Angebot der Unterstützung und zur weiteren Klärung. Unsere Geräte sind QAL1 zertifiziert und werden seit Jahren bei behördlichen Messungen eingesetzt. Messwerte könnten über eine Datenplattform digital allen Beteiligten bereitgestellt werden.

Doch auf unser Schreiben erhielten wir keine Antwort.Daher haben wir uns telefonisch an die Stadt Stutensee gewendet.Erst nach mehreren Telefonaten und auf unser Drängen reagierten die Verantwortlichen der Stadt Stutensee. Die Aussage: „Man sehe keine Notwendigkeit und wolle nicht messen.“ Die Stadt Stutensee scheint sich hier ihrer Verantwortung für die Gewährleistung der öffentlichen Sicherheit zu entziehen. Dass diese wohl durch Holzofen-Rauchgase in dem entsprechenden Wohngebiet konkret gefährdet ist, war in der FAZ ( https://www.faz.net/aktuell/wissen/heizen-mit-holz-ist-weder-umweltfreundlich-noch-nachhaltig-18337589.html ) und den BNN ( Stutenseer Wissenschaftler sieht Gefahr in Holzöfen (bnn.de) ) zu lesen. Würde man die Problematik ernst nehmen, dann könnte man durch weitere Messungen das Problemfeld erkennen und Lösungen angehen, dies scheint jedoch nicht gewollt zu sein.

Stockholm monitors air quality at cruise port

Sarah Kunath — 18 Jul 2022 06:51:56 GMT

At the beginning of 2022, the Stockholm Port Authority decided to investigate emissions from cruise ships docked at Stadsgården. The ships are not connected to the power grid during their stay of at least 24 hours and have to generate their own electricity via diesel generators on board. The compact measuring device for determining ambient air quality Fidas^® Smart 100 from Palas GmbH has already been installed at the port of Stockholm, more to follow.

Cruise ships produce large quantities of air pollutants. But how great is the danger for people who live or work near harbors and ports? To answer this question, the City of Stockholm is using measuring devices from Palas and will be carrying out measurements between May and September - with the option of an extension. Only with precise measurement data, invisible threats in the air can be made visible. And also they can be used to make reliable statements about the air quality on site and – if necessary – to take appropriate countermeasures.

The challenge now is to accurately record the tracks of the cruise ships, because factors such as weather, wind direction and the quantity or location of the ships naturally also play an important role here. The City of Stockholm has detailed schedules for all ships coming in and can use the measurement data to closely monitor and analyze the pollution in the air.

Fidas^® Smart 100 continuously and reliably analyzes airborne particulate matter in the size range 0.175 - 20 μm and is released and approved by TÜV for PM_2.5 for official measurements. Fidas^® Smart 100 thus provides comprehensive and accurate information on fine dust particles, which is only possible in this form with a counting single particle measurement method.

The city of Stockholm and the port authority hope to get clear results from this measurement data to see how serious the air pollution is, that are made from cruise ship. This is the only way to make valid statements about possible effects on people and the environment. The measurement phase - and thus initial evaluations - are scheduled to run until September, with an option to extend.

Every year, there are approximately 300 ship arrivals in Stockholm with more than 500,000 passengers. There are a total of four cruise port terminals in Stockholm. The berth Stadsgården is located about 1 km south of the old town Gamla Stan and ideal for large cruise ships.

Read the complete success story here.

AQ Guard Smart Receives MCERTS Certification

Sarah Kunath — 14 Jul 2022 09:29:30 GMT

AQ Guard Smart, the latest Palas air quality measurement system for monitoring fine particulate matter, received MCERTS approval as an Indicative Ambient Particulate Monitor on June 24, 2022. The measurement system with optional gas sensor technology was specially developed for demanding environmental conditions and is particularly suitable for smart city applications, fence line and construction site monitoring.

Whether for air quality measurements during the volcanic eruption on La Palma, for measurements of (fine) dust pollution on construction sites or at inner-city traffic junctions: The internationally recognized MCERTS certification confirms the AQ Guard Smart precise results in the measurement range (CN) up to 20,000 particles/cm³. The compact and cloud-enabled AQ Guard Smart thus establishes itself as one of the most reliable measurement systems for determining air quality (PM₁, PM_2.5, PM₄, PM₁₀, TSP).

Based on the technology of the EN 16450-certified Fidas^® 200, the AQ Guard Smart is an optical scattered light aerosol spectrometer with single particle analysis. If required, the system can be easily connected to the cloud-based environmental measurement system MyAtmosphere . It allows both private and government operators to directly retrieve current readings or compare them with other instruments. The usual protocols such as ASCII, MODBUS via TCP or UDP are also integrated.

MCERTS as a reliable reference

The MCERTS certification program is based on internationally recognized standards relating to ambient air monitoring and instrument approval. The certification includes both careful examination of the measuring device and field tests in comparison with the official reference measurement method. It ensures both the reliability of the measurement device and the reliability of the measured values.

Webinar: The new RBG System

Eva-Maria Erler — 02 May 2022 09:40:42 GMT

For more than 25 years, the RBG system has been used worldwide with great success for the reliable dispersion of non-cohesive powders such as mineral dusts, active pharmaceutical ingredients, pollen, etc.

Learn more about our new devices in this webinar with our Division Manager Martin Schmidt.