So tiny that we barely can see it, and in most cases, odourless and colourless – the particulate matter is another invisible enemy we should protect ourselves from. What can it consist of? How does it affect our health? Below we answer all the most common questions.
When you pass the busy street on a hot day, you may experience breathing difficulties and other disagreeable sensations. The intense smell of the exhaust fumes is nothing pleasant – but the most dangerous is what we cannot really sense. Tiny particles – microplastic fibres, the small pieces of rubber from car tires, and other types of solid matter – are basically invisible since their diameter is measured in micrometers. To give you an idea – the same unit is used to define the size of blood cells and some bacteria.
What is particulate matter?
Particulate matter is a general term for the solid particles from different sources that get to the atmosphere and leads to air pollution. Its concentration in the air under the appropriate weather conditions can transform into smog, which can cause serious health implications. But even if it doesn’t, it can affect the communities in various ways – from causing diseases to weakening fauna and flora.
Particulate matter circulating in the atmosphere can connect with the acids created through a reaction of greenhouse gases and water molecules. It consists of various particles, including organic chemicals, heavy metals, and dust.
Which type of particulate matter is more dangerous – PM 2.5 or PM 10?
Particulate matter is usually divided into two categories, accordingly to their size:
- PM 10
- PM 2.5
The numbers refer to the diameter of the particles. Both types can be threatening to human health. However, the smaller variant – the PM 2.5 – can easily get into the bloodstream through the lungs, which makes it more dangerous. The PM 10, due to its size, usually stays in the respiratory system. Nevertheless – its accumulation can lead to serious health problems, from lung cancer to obstructive pulmonary disease.
The best method to stay protected is to monitor the PM 2.5 and PM 10 level daily since both can affect your health. How can you do it? The most efficient way is through the interactive map updated in real-time, for example, Airly.org. Using such an app, you can check not only the PM levels but also the toxic gas emissions in your area.
PM 10 – what are its sources?
The particulate matter can have various origins. The distribution of its emissions depends on the geographic sphere and the development level. However, generally, burning fossil fuels is the main source of pollution with solid particles, even though we usually associate it with carbon dioxide and toxic gas emissions.
A big part of solid particles reaches the atmosphere because of public transport. Industrial emissions are to blame as well, and so is the waste-burning sector.
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Regardless of the type of particulate matter, the exposure – especially the long-term one – can pose a danger to your health. Fortunately, the antismog masks available on the market can filtrate both of them. To know when to use this form of protection – because sometimes it might be necessary even though the sky seems clear – use air pollution maps. These, updated in real-time, like, for instance, Airly.org, provide you with the most accurate PM 2.5 and PM 10 levels, making it easier to stay safe.
