Determination of size fractions and concentrations of airborne particulate matter generated from construction and demolition waste processing facilities

Abstract

Construction and Demolition (C&D) processing and recycling facilities accept waste materials that are generated during construction and demolition activities. The processing facility sorts, processes, and transfers the material to another operation. Active stationary particulate sampling devices were employed to quantify the particle sizes of interest. Results were compared to United States Environmental Protection Agency National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) and United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards. Airborne particulate levels were found to be higher inside of buildings even when minimal activity is taking place. Interior road type seems to impact airborne particulate levels, and misting activities can significantly reduce the amount of airborne particulate matter exiting a building. The data indicate that C&D processing facilities may exceed current NAAQS at certain locations but do not exceed OSHA standards. © The Author(s) 2008.