Comparative Analysis of Measured PM Concentrations with AQI and Iranian Clean Air Standard (Case Study: Sari, Iran) 2010-2015

Background & Aims of the Study: Among different kinds of air pollutants, Particle matters due to their proved destructive impacts on human health and their various sources like transportation attract wide attention. The objective of this work is determining the real value of particle matters in one of the important and busy roads in Iran (Sari- Qaemshahr road). Materials & Methods: In this study, measurement and field analysis of particle matter (PM) pollution of Sari-Qaemshahr road (Iran), with high load of traffic, has been done during a 6 years period (2010-2015) and the results have been investigated by means of AQI and Iranian clean air standard indexes. Furthermore, the effect of pollutants on human health is discussed. Results: The results showed that particle matter pollution in study stations has an increasing upward trend. Comparison of measured particles with clean air standard expresses that the amount of particles is under the clean air standard limitation and it could not considered as a danger. However, comparison of PM with AQI index showed that the amount of the PM, except 2010, is in the range of very unhealthy and it shows a very poor condition. Considering its effects on human health, the increasing trend of these particles could become a concern for the society. Conclusions: This research reveals that the Iranian clean air standard needs a meticulous review in order to administer the emission of PM, using the results which are obtained from this study.