Particulate Matter, also known as particle pollution, shortened to PM, consists of solid and liquid particles made up of ash, metals, soot and diesel exhaust, and chemicals. We divide particles into two major groups based on size; PM10 and PM2.5.
PM10 refers to the coarse particles that are between 2.5 and 10 micrometres. These particles are about 25 to 100 times thinner than human hair and cause less severe health effects, mostly in the upper respiratory tract.
Consists of smoke, dirt and dust from factories, farming and roads, as well as mould, spores and pollen.
PM2.5 refers to particles that are smaller than 2.5 micrometres. These particles are more than 100 times thinner than human hair.
Consists of toxic organic compounds and heavy metals (automobile exhaust, burning garbage and landfill, smelting and processing metals.)
Which Particulate Matter is more harmful?
The short answer is PM2.5.
The smaller particles or PM2.5 are lighter, go deeper into the lungs to cause greater damage long term, stay in the air longer and travel further. PM10 or bigger particulate matter stay in the air for minutes or hours, compared to the smaller particles, which can stay in the air for days or even weeks.
How can I monitor particulate matter?
An environmental monitor, such as the Quantum Outdoor, is the ideal instrument for measuring and monitoring the particulate matter.
With instant access to air quality information, Quantum Outdoor provides you with a greater level of control over your environmental impacts. The addition of the new air sampling integration means you are able to detect key environmental pollutants, including gases such as carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, nitrogen dioxide and nitrate.
The air quality sensor can detect particulates, too, including respirable particles with sizes PM 1, PM 2.5 and PM 10.
If you’re interested in learning more about Quantum Outdoor, you can access information via our website here, or you can speak to one of our experts by emailing [email protected] , or by calling us on +44 1723 891655.
