Particulate Matter

Why Measure It?

Airborne particulate matter (PM) is categorized into different size fractions. Total Suspended Particulate (TSP) includes all particle sizes and is a good measure of nuisance dust. PM10 (particles ≤ 10 microns) is a criteria pollutant and is a serious health risk because PM10 particles can penetrate the lungs. PM2.5 (particles ≤ 2.5 microns) is also a criteria pollutant which has even greater health impact due to risk of penetration deeper into the respiratory system. Research has linked particulate pollution to lung and heart disease, strokes, cancer, and reproductive harm.

Where does it come from?

Natural Sources

Large particles (generally PM10 and above) come from natural sources stirred up by wind or human activity. PM10 occurs naturally; for example, as sea salt, dust (airborne soil), or pollen. Airborne soil particles, although natural, are also produced by human-made processes such as construction and industrial activities. Natural particulates can make up a large portion of PM10 in some areas

As a Pollutant

Small particles (generally PM2.5 and below) are by-products of combustion, e.g. emissions from vehicles and power stations. Particles from these sources react with other gases in the atmosphere to create particles of various chemical compositions. Gas to particle conversion can also produce fine particulate.

More information on the Aeroqual Gas Detection Monitors can be found on Gas Sensing website, using the links below.

Series 200

Series 300

Series 500

Aeroqual Sensors

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