PM10

PM10 is an air quality term for particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of 10 micrometres (μm) or less. It is one of several size fractions used to characterize ambient air pollution and is commonly expressed as micrograms per cubic meter (μg/m3).

Composition and sources: PM10 includes a mixture of substances, from mineral dust and pollen to soot and liquid droplets. Primary particles originate directly from sources such as vehicle exhaust, power plants, industrial processes, construction and road dust. Secondary particles form in the atmosphere when gases like sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides and ammonia react to create sulfates, nitrates and ammonium salts. Biological materials such as pollen and mold spores also contribute to PM10.

Health effects: Inhalation of PM10 can irritate the eyes, nose and throat and worsen respiratory conditions such as asthma and bronchitis. While coarse particles tend to deposit in the upper airways, PM10 exposure is linked to reduced lung function, cardiovascular effects and higher mortality with long-term exposure, particularly for sensitive groups such as children and the elderly.

Measurement and regulation: PM10 is monitored by air quality networks using gravimetric or automatic monitoring. Jurisdictions set ambient air quality standards with limits for PM10. In the European Union, the daily limit value is 50 μg/m3 not to be exceeded more than 35 days per year, and the annual limit value is 40 μg/m3. The United States regulates PM10 with a 24-hour standard of 150 μg/m3, not to be exceeded more than once per year.

Mitigation: Reducing PM10 levels focuses on cutting emissions from traffic, industry and construction, improving fuel quality, promoting cleaner technologies, and implementing dust control measures. Urban planning, green spaces and indoor air filtration also help reduce exposure.