Applicability of the mass concentration standards for particulate matter in Alaskan areas.

Abstract

High particulate matter concentrations were measured in several communities in Alaska using high volume air samplers. Because of these measurements, Anchorage and Fairbanks have been classified Priority 1 for particulate matter. To define and better understand the meaning of particulate measurements in Alaska, the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation, in conjunction with local agencies, collected and evaluated air quality data during 1972-73. It was found that the mean particle diameter in the Alaskan urban areas was approximately ten times that found in major metropolitan areas; The mean particle size increased with increasing mass concentration in those areas; Particulate matter concentrations were highly dependent on natural phenomenon; and COH meter readings did not correlate with high volume air sampler measurements. Combined SO/sub 2/ and particulate matter data indicated little evidence of possible health hazard as defined in Air Quality Criteria for Particulate Matter. A possible method for relating high volume air sampler data to ambient air particulate matter standards based on size distribution is presented. The results presented strongly indicate that mass concentration data alone do not provide an index of possible health hazard in Alaska and probably other rural areas.