Analysis of Data From Ambient PM 10 Concentration Monitoring in Volos in the Period 2005-2010

Abstract

This paper presents the results of a monitoring campaign for ambient PM10 concentrations in Volos, Greece in the period 2005-2010. The aim is to give an overview of the evolution of particulate pollution, discuss effects of the micro-climate and demonstrate that PM10 monitoring may be carried out with low-cost measurement instruments at a community level. Statistical processing of the 2009-2010 measurement data indicates a negative correlation of PM10 with ambient air temperature and a positive correlation with relative humidity. Low PM10 concentrations are associated with E to SE winds and high concentrations with NW to N winds. Daily variation of particulate matter concentrations follows well established patterns with peaks at 09:00-10:00 and 23:00-24:00. The operation of an expanded PM10 monitoring network is under way.