Characteristics and analysis of PM2.5 particles in a light-polluted atmosphere in winter

Abstract

Abstract To study the micro-morphological characteristics of PM2.5 and its effect on ambient air quality, a 7500F scanning electron microscope (SEM) was utilized in this study to examine the micromorphology and elemental composition of PM2.5 and its impact on ambient air quality during heavily polluted weather in Yining City in the winter of 2018–2019. The results revealed the presence of numerous large solid shapes, small strip shapes, and a few irregular shapes. Additionally, the quantity of PM2.5 particles adsorbed on the glass fiber filter membrane was high, indicating a significant impact of PM2.5 particles on the urban area. Based on the analysis of particulate matter, heating time, and environmental conditions of samples during the winter heating season, it was concluded that the PM2.5 sample is rich in N, S, P, C, Na, Ge, Rb, Zn, Fe, Mg, Al, Mo, Pt, and Pb. The findings suggest that the urban area is predominantly influenced by industrial dust, road dust, construction cement dust, vehicle exhaust dust, and coal combustion during winter heating. The analysis and evaluation of the sample data indicate that PM2.5 in the urban area is influenced by human activities.

Keywords

• PM2.5
• Microstructure characteristics
• SEM
• Heating season
• Ambient air quality