Chemical Concentrations, Source Emission, Potential Toxicity, and Health Risk of Ambient Fine Particulate Matter and Its Constituents: A Recent Literature Review

Abstract

Introduction

Ambient fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) is a significant environmental and public health concern. Chemical concentrations and toxicity of PM_2.5 vary depending on its sources and environmental conditions, necessitating a detailed understanding of their characteristics and respective health impacts.

Methodology

A scientific literature search was conducted using different sources such as PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar, covering publications from January 2020 to May 2024. The search terms included ambient fine particulate matter, PM_2.5 chemical constituent, health effects of PM_2.5, sources of PM_2.5, and other related keywords.

Results

The review identified various concentrations of PM_2.5 ranging between (10–250 μg/m³), and their chemical constituents such as SO₄²⁻ (1.0–25.0 μg/m³), NO₃⁻ (0.3–20 μg/m³), NH₄⁺ (0.2–1.5 μg/m³), OM (1–35 μg/m³), and BC (0.5–40 μg/m³), metals, and trace elements. Major sources of PM_2.5 identified include vehicle emissions, industrial processes, residential heating, and natural phenomena. Health effects associated with PM_2.5 exposure encompassed respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, adverse pregnancy outcomes, and neurological disorders. The toxicological profiles of specific chemical components were highlighted, and the potential mechanisms underlying these health effects were discussed.

Conclusion

The findings emphasize the need for targeted mitigation strategies to reduce PM_2.5 emissions concentrations and exposure. Future research should focus on advancing analytical techniques for pollutant dispersion and evaluating the effectiveness of intervention measures.