Spatial and Temporal Variation of Particulate Matter Around Lagos Environs

Abstract

Air monitoring is very essential for characterizing health risks, formulating cost-effective abatement strategies, creating and enforcing appropriate air quality standards, and as well as healthy urban planning. This study investigates the spatial and temporal variation of aerosol pollution in Lagos environs, Nigeria. Selected sampling locations were Computer Village (CV), Oshodi Garage (OG), Magodo Estate (MG), and Caleb International College (CIC). Associated anthropogenic activities were the basis for the selection of the sampling location. Measurements of particulate matters were undertaken by employing the AEROCET 531S device in these selected residential, academic, and commercial environments across Lagos State. The measurements were taken at approximately 2 m from the ground in each sampling location. Data analysis and visualization were executed with python to enhance the visualization of the spatial and temporal distribution of the different particulate matter within and across the locations. A pronounced gradient of the particulate matter concentrations (µg/m3) was observed across the study area. The study outcome demonstrates that particulate matter distribution is dominated by PM10 in all locations under consideration. The proportions of fine particles to coarse particles in these environments were low ranging from 0.027 – 0.277 in CV, 0.018 – 0.395 in OG, 0.080 – 0.291 in MG, and 0.028 – 0.272 in CIC. Findings from this study established the dominance of coarse particles assumed to be contributed by cement dust, coal dust, flour, paint spray, pollen, cloud droplets, etc.