PM10 is particulate matter where the size of the actual particles is 10 microns in diameter or less. PM10 is a type of air pollution that includes dust, soot, and tiny bits of solid materials that are released and move around in the air. This includes burning of diesel fuels, incineration of garbage, mixing and applying fertilizers and pesticides, road construction, steel making, mining, field burning, forest fires, fireplaces and woodstoves. It causes eye, nose and throat irritation and respiratory problems.
What is PM 2.5?
The term PM2.5 includes both solid particles and liquid droplets (excluding water droplets) that are found in outdoor air. Particulate matter may be emitted directly into the air or can form from pollutants that react in the atmosphere. PM2.5 refers to the size of the actual particles as 2.5 microns in diameter or less. Fine particles tend to pose the greatest health concern because they can be inhaled into and accumulate in the respiratory system.
Sources of fine particle emissions include all types of combustion (motor vehicles, power plants, wood burning, etc.) and some industrial processes. Organic compounds, nitrogen oxides, ammonia and sulfur dioxide can react in the atmosphere to form secondary PM2.5.
What is Fugitive Dust?
Fugitive dust are particles lifted into the air caused by man-made and natural activities such as the movement of soil, vehicles, equipment, blasting, and wind. Fugitive dust is emitted into the air by activities that disturb the soil, such as earthmoving and vehicular/equipment traffic on unpaved surfaces.