Slide 1

Particulate Matter There are things floating around in the air. Most of them, you cannot even see. They are a kind of air pollution called particles or particulate matter. Particles can come in different shape and size , bigger particles i.e. PM10 and smaller particles i.e. PM2.5. These affects more people than any other pollutant. The major components are sulfate, nitrate, sodium chloride, ammonia, carbon, mineral dust and water. The particles are identified according to their aerodynamic diameter, as either PM10 or PM2.5. The latter are more dangerous since, when inhaled, they may reached the peripheral regions of the bronchioles, and interfere with gas exchange inside the lungs.Effects Health Effects

premature death in people with hearth and lung disease nonfatal heart attacks irregular heartbeat aggravated asthma decreased lung function increased respiratory symptoms, such as irritation of the airways, coughing or difficulty breathing Environmental Effects Visibility impairment: - Fine particles (PM2.5) are the main cause of reduced visibility ( haze). Environmental damage: - Particles can be carried over long distances by wind and then settle on ground or water making lakes and streams acidic; changing the nutrient balance in coastal water and large river basins; depleting the nutrients in soil; damaging sensitive forest and farm crops; and affecting the diversity of ecosystem. Guideline values PM2.5 10 g/m annual mean 25 g/m 24- hour mean PM10 20 g/m annual mean 50 g/m 24- hour mean The 2005 AQG set for the first time a guideline value for particulate matter. The aim is to achieve the concentrations possible. As no threshold for PM has been identified below which no damage to health is observed, the recommended value should represent an acceptable and achievable objective to minimize health effects in the context of local constraints, capabilities and public health priorities. Control measures Reducing numbers of vehicles Reducing vehicle speed Correcting road design problems Increasing moisture content Binding particles together Covering unpaved road surface soils with gravel Sealing unpaved road with pavement or other impermeable materials