Soodust

Soodust is a term used in environmental science to describe a class of fine particulate matter that is dominated by soot and related carbonaceous particles. The expression is not standardized and appears mainly in regional studies or interdisciplinary discussions rather than in formal regulatory frameworks. In practice, soodust is often treated as a subset of ambient particulate matter with a high black carbon or organic carbon content.

Soodust particles are typically in the PM2.5 to PM10 size range and exhibit a carbon-rich composition. Common components include elemental carbon, organic carbon, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), trace metals, sulfates, nitrates, and various ash-like materials. The particles tend to form as agglomerates, with irregular shapes that influence light absorption and atmospheric lifetime.

Major sources of soodust include vehicle exhaust (especially diesel engines), residential heating with solid fuels, industrial combustion processes, biomass burning, and the smoke from wildfires. Local concentrations can be highly variable, influenced by weather patterns, topography, and emission controls.

Health effects associated with soodust are largely consistent with other fine particulate matter. Inhalation can lead to respiratory and cardiovascular issues, reduced lung function, and increased hospital admissions. There is also evidence linking long-term exposure to elevated mortality risk. Environmentally, soodust contributes to atmospheric warming through light absorption and can deposit on soils and water bodies, affecting ecosystems and surface albedo.

Measurement is typically conducted through air quality monitoring networks, reporting mass concentrations in micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m³) for PM2.5 and PM10, with some efforts distinguishing carbon-rich fractions. Regulatory frameworks generally address soodust indirectly through PM standards, while researchers may discuss its specific carbon-dominated properties separately. Mitigation focuses on reducing combustion emissions, improving filtration and energy efficiency, and transitioning to cleaner energy sources.