Impact of particulate matter on air quality

Abstract

Particulate matter (PM) is a minor component of the atmosphere generated from natural and anthropogenic sources, whose characteristics are reflected in its composition. The PM particle size is related to the residence time in the atmosphere and the level of penetration in the human respiratory system. The presence of certain elements and chemical substances in the PM composition can be used as a tool to identify polluting sources. In addition, some of these particles, such as black carbon and brown carbon, can directly interfere with climate change by absorbing or reflecting the radiation in the atmosphere. Therefore, this review article aims to discuss the importance of PM, including aspects of classification, occurrence, sources, chemical composition, health and climatic effects.