PM Dimensional Characterization in an Urban Mediterranean Area: Case Studies on the Separation between Fine and Coarse Atmospheric Aerosol

Fine particulate matter (PM) is object of particular attention due to its health effects. It currently regulated by adopting PM2.5 as an indicator control anthropogenic combustion emissions. Therefore, it crucial collect aerosol samples representative such sources, without including PM from natural sources. Thus, a clean separation between coarse and fine mode should be set. With this purpose, size mass distribution was taken in the aerodynamic diameter range 0.5 10 µm. In comparison with base scenario, characterized local pollution three case studies were considered, involving desert dust advection, sea salt advection forest fire remote area. represented suitable fine-mode indicator, whereas considerably affected advection. Such interference reduced setting fine/coarse at 1.0 underrepresented long-range transport, nonetheless PM1 best since less The data presented clearly support results other associating effects PM1, rather than PM1–2.5. Overall, there need reconsider atmospheric aerosol.