Physiochemical characterization of ambient PM10 and PM2.5 in an urban environment

Abstract

Air pollution in megacities is increasing due to high population density, vehicles, industry, and waste burning which negatively affects health and climate. Greater Noida is a rapidly urbanizing city in Uttar Pradesh where particulate matter research is crucial but limited. This study analyzed the particulate matter in Greater Noida, India during the winter of 2023. The average values of PM_2.5 and PM₁₀ were 106.97 μg m⁻³ and 457.36 μg m⁻³, respectively. Further to study the physiochemical characteristics of particulate matter various techniques were used, including XRD, FT-IR, and FE-SEM coupled with EDX. The presence of minerals like calcite, dolomite, vaterite, and quartz at all sampling sites was identified by FT-IR and XRD techniques. The presence of magnesium was ascertained using dolomite's characteristic peaks. EDX spectra confirm the presence of iron oxides (magnetite and hematite). Analysis shows quartz, iron, biological particles, carbonates, and carbonaceous particles in the study area. C, O, B, Mg, Si, Ca, Cl, Al, Na, K, Zn, and S are the elements found in the study area. Different types of particles, including carbonaceous, iron-containing, feldspar, quartz, calcium-rich, and chlorine-rich particles, were found. Factors affecting air quality near the sampling site include dust, biological emissions, construction activities, and industrial emissions. Combining these methods provides a comprehensive approach to understanding the complex nature of PM in the environment, contributing to a better understanding of its origin, transformation, and potential impacts on health and the environment.