Abstract
We describe the measurement and spatial variability of particulate matter (PM) chemical composition, PM10 and PM2.5 in the Greater Tubatse Municipality, South Africa. Monthly samples were collected over 12 months (July 2015 to June 2016) using the inexpensive and easy to operate passive samplers of the University of North Carolina. Sites for sample collection were located at private residences, a church, a hospital and a school. Concentrations of PM10, PM2.5 and PM chemical components were determined using computer-controlled scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The annual observed concentrations at all sites were below the South African National Ambient Air Quality Standards of 40 μg/m3 for PM10 and 25 μg/m3 for PM2.5. The Cr-rich and CrFe-rich particles showed substantial heterogeneity with high concentrations observed near the chrome smelters, and Si-rich particles were highest near the silicon mine. SiAl-rich particles were highest at sites close to busy roads, while SiAlFe-rich particles were less spatially distributed. The low spatial variability of SiAlFe-rich particles indicates that these elements are mainly found in crustal material. Using the synoptic meteorological parameters of The Air Pollution Model, we were unable to effectively determine correlations between PM10 and mixing height, Monin–Obukhov length, air pollution potential, or coefficient of divergence.
 Significance:
 
 We have shown that the use of University of North Carolina passive samplers coupled with computer-controlled scanning electron microscopy is effective in determining the chemical composition of PM.
 The use of passive samplers is a cheap and effective method to collect data in remote areas of South Africa which have limited or no electricity supply.
 Assessment of the spatial distribution of PM and PM chemical components can assist in the development of effective air quality management strategies.
Highlights
Airborne particulate matter (PM) is a term used to describe solid particles or a mixture of solid and liquid droplets suspended in the air.[1]
The highest PM10 concentrations were measured during the winter months (May–July) except at Site 6 (Mashegoane) where the highest concentrations were observed during the month of November when there was soil tillage in preparation for crop sowing just before the rainy season
The choice of the inverse distance weighted (IDW) statistical method proved to be useful as it was able to predict the spatial variation of PM10, PM2.5 and PM chemical components in the study area
Summary
Airborne particulate matter (PM) is a term used to describe solid particles or a mixture of solid and liquid droplets suspended in the air.[1]. The major contributors of secondary particles are sulfate and nitrate salts formed from the oxidation of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, respectively.[4] Ambient PM has long been associated with adverse effects on respiratory, cardiovascular and cardiopulmonary health.[5,6,7] The severity of such health effects depends largely on the size, concentration and composition of inhaled particles.[8] PM pollution emanating from industrialisation has serious environmental impacts mainly because of the release of toxic substances and trace metals into the atmosphere.[9]
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