Physical and Chemical Characteristics and Volatility of PM in the Proximity of a Light-Duty Vehicle Freeway

Abstract

Abstract Volatility properties of ultrafine particles were analyzed next to State Route 110 (Pasadena freeway CA), a light-duty vehicle freeway where heavy-duty traffic is prohibited. In addition, mass concentration and chemical composition of particulate matter (PM) were measured in coarse, accumulation, and ultrafine modes. On weekdays from 17 May to 4 June 2004, measurements were performed in two locations, one very close to the freeway (within 2.5 m from the curb) and one at a distance of about 50 m from the freeway. For measurement of mass and chemical composition, the study employed in each location a micro-orifice uniform deposit impactor (MOUDI) and a modified high-volume sampler. Both instruments sampled with the same size cutpoints: a coarse mode from 2.5 to 10 μm, an accumulation mode from 0.18 to 2.5 μm, and an ultrafine mode of particles less than 0.18 μm in aerodynamic diameter. Alternately, a tandem differential mobility analyzer (TDMA) was used at the two sites. A heater between the two DM...