HORIBA PX-375 Continuous Particulate & Elemental Analyzer

Real-time mass and chemical characterization of ambient particulate matter (PM) in a single compact system.

The HORIBA PX-375 revolutionizes ambient air quality monitoring (AAQM) by combining two critical measurements into one automated platform. Unlike traditional methods that require separate sampling and laboratory analysis, the PX-375 provides continuous, on-site quantification of both particulate mass and elemental composition.

Designed for environmental researchers, industrial EHS managers, and regulatory agencies, this analyzer delivers the granular data needed for precise source apportionment without the logistical burden of manual filter handling.

Key Benefits

• Simultaneous Mass & Elemental Analysis: Eliminates the need for separate sampling equipment and offline laboratory X-ray fluorescence (XRF) testing. Get both PM concentration (µg/m³) and elemental breakdown (ng/m³) in one cycle.

• Rapid Source Apportionment: By identifying specific heavy metals and elements (e.g., Pb, As, Ni, Cr) in near real-time, operators can immediately pinpoint pollution sources such as factory emissions, vehicular traffic, or natural dust events.

• Reduced Operational Costs: Fully automated sampling and analysis significantly reduce the labor hours associated with filter replacement, transport, and external lab fees.

• Data Integrity & Visualization: Integrated CMOS camera technology captures images of the collected sample on the filter tape, providing visual verification of the particulate load and potential black carbon deposition.

• Versatile Monitoring: Suitable for measuring PM2.5, PM10, or TSP (Total Suspended Particles) simply by changing the inlet configuration.

Technical Overview

The PX-375 leverages a sophisticated hybrid measurement principle to deliver laboratory-grade accuracy in field conditions.

1. Dual-Stage Analysis Cycle

The system uses a non-woven PTFE filter tape to collect particulate matter.

• Mass Concentration: First, the system utilizes Beta-ray attenuation technology—the industry standard for PM sizing—to determine the total mass of the collected sample.

• Elemental Composition: Immediately following mass measurement, the sample is subjected to Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence (EDXRF) spectrometry. This non-destructive technique analyzes the sample to detect and quantify up to 32 standard elements, ranging from Aluminum (Al) to Bismuth (Bi).

2. Advanced Detection Capabilities

• High Sensitivity: The instrument uses a Silicon Drift Detector (SDD) and automatic tube voltage switching (15kV/50kV) to optimize sensitivity for both light and heavy metals.

• Black Particle Monitoring (Optional): An optical measurement module can be added to quantify black particles, correlating brightness values to Elemental Carbon (EC) concentrations—crucial for tracking combustion sources like diesel exhaust.

3. Robust Field Design

Built for continuous operation, the PX-375 features an internal linear drive pump and extended filter tape capacity (approx. 5 months operational life depending on settings), making it ideal for unmanned monitoring stations.

Typical Use Cases

Industrial Fenceline Monitoring

• Steel & Iron Production: Track fugitive emissions of iron, manganese, and zinc to ensure compliance with local air quality standards.

• Petrochemical Refineries: Monitor for specific heavy metals associated with refining processes to distinguish plant emissions from background urban pollution.

Environmental & Public Health

• Source Apportionment Studies: Researchers can correlate specific elemental signatures (e.g., Vanadium and Nickel from heavy oil combustion) to specific pollution events, enabling data-driven policy decisions.

• Emergency Response: Rapidly assess the chemical nature of plumes from industrial fires or accidents to determine public health risks.

Roadside & Urban Air Quality

• Traffic Pollution Analysis: Distinguish between tailpipe emissions and non-exhaust sources like brake and tire wear by analyzing specific marker elements.

Why Choose the HORIBA PX-375?

Standard PM monitors only tell you how much dust is in the air. The HORIBA PX-375 tells you what that dust is made of.

For industries facing strict scrutiny regarding hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) or heavy metals, waiting weeks for laboratory filter analysis is a liability. The PX-375 bridges the gap between compliance monitoring and scientific research, offering a defensible, automated solution that turns air quality data into actionable intelligence.