PARTICLE COUNTING

The topic of particle counting is gaining momentum in Europe. Following preliminary studies conducted by TNO (NL), BAST (DE), GOCA (BE), and the European JRC laboratory, the specification phase was carried out by the NPTI (New Periodical Technical Inspection) working group and the Physikalisch Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) (DE).

The pioneering countries—the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany—have developed specifications based on the work of these working groups and have agreed on July 1, 2022 (NL, BE) and January 1, 2023 (DE) as the implementation dates for particulate matter measurement.

The certification phases are currently underway in the Netherlands as well as at the Federal Institute of Metrology, Metas (CH). They are also expected to begin shortly in Germany.

Initially, only diesel vehicles will be subject to particle measurement while idling. The measurement can be performed on gasoline vehicles using the same equipment; however, the procedure will differ. The specifics of this procedure have yet to be determined. The JRC (Joint Research Center) has examined this issue.

BASIS FOR EU RECOMMENDATIONS

 At the initiative of these pioneering countries, the European Commission has therefore asked the JRC to conduct further studies. Based on these studies, a recommendation (a non-binding document) is to be prepared by the end of 2021, which will provide a basis for Member States wishing to introduce particulate matter testing.

At the same time, the revision of the Roadworthiness Directive has begun. The European Commission has adopted a positive stance on the introduction of particulate matter testing. This position is based on the JRC’s reports on two test campaigns conducted this year to supplement the work on the recommendation.

It is clear that this recommendation will serve as the basis for the work to recast the PTI (roadworthiness testing) Directive. Other regions of the world are awaiting the European initiatives to introduce this new requirement into their regulations.

Georges Petelet (CAPELEC) of the French federation GIEG (Groupe des Industries d'Equipements de Garage) chairs EGEA’s WG 2 Emissions/OBD.

Source: EGEA Inside December 2021
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