Particulate Matter
Articles tagged with Particulate Matter
Drones with low-cost air quality sensors can improve air quality monitoring
A drone equipped with low-cost air quality sensors has revealed unexpectedly high concentrations of particulate matter at around 100 meters above ground level in Delhi. The findings suggest that current model simulations underestimate PM2.5 mass concentrations during morning haze episodes, highlighting the need for better mitigation st...
Waste chitin transformed into high-performance porous carbons for greenhouse gas recovery
Researchers have developed a chemical-free method to upcycle waste chitin into high-performance porous carbons, which can efficiently capture and release hydrocarbons. The materials' pore structure can be precisely tuned through steam activation time, leading to improved adsorption and desorption performance.
A study analyses which lung cancer subtypes are associated with different air pollutants
A study analyzing air pollutants' impact on lung cancer reveals that fine particulate matter (PM2.5) increases the risk of all subtypes, while NO2, O3, and SO2 are linked to non-small-cell lung cancer. No associations were found between gaseous pollutants and small-cell carcinoma.
Prenatal and early-life pollution exposures may influence childhood blood pressure patterns, ECHO study finds
A new study from the ECHO Program found that exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) before and after birth may influence childhood blood pressure patterns. High blood pressure in children is a growing concern worldwide, with nearly 80% increase over two decades.
Air pollution exposure and birth weight
A cohort study found higher fine particulate matter (PM2.5) exposure associated with lower birth weight, particularly in early and mid-pregnancy. The study's findings suggest that understanding windows of susceptibility to environmental exposures can inform strategies for limiting exposure during critical periods.
Exposure to multiple fine particulate matter components and incident depression in the US Medicare population
A cohort study found associations between exposure to multiple fine particulate matter components and increased depression risk among US Medicare population members. The study highlights the importance of targeted regulation to protect vulnerable populations from harmful air pollution.
From soft to solid: How a coral stiffens its skeleton on demand
A soft coral's ability to stiffen its skeleton in response to danger has been studied by Penn Engineers, revealing a mechanism known as granular jamming. By compacting mineral particles and expelling water, the coral's tissues create a rigid structure that can withstand external forces.
Yonsei University study finds air pollution sharply raises workplace accident risk
A new study published by Yonsei University reveals that air pollution is a significant contributor to workplace accidents, increasing the risk of accidents and fatalities by 2.6 times when PM2.5 concentrations double. The study estimates economic losses of up to $10 billion annually.
Prenatal exposure to fine particulate matter components and autism risk in childhood
A large cohort study found associations between prenatal fine particulate matter components and postnatal ozone exposure with increased risk of autism spectrum disorder. These findings suggest that air pollution may play a role in the etiology of autism, warranting further research.
Prussian Blue breaks out of its cubic mold after 300 years
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology have successfully synthesized Prussian Blue with an octahedral morphology by using a specialized solvent. The new crystal shape enhances electrochemical reactivity and stable performance in sodium-ion hybrid capacitors.
Soot's climate-altering properties change within hours of entering atmosphere
Researchers found that soot particles can transform their shape and behavior within hours of becoming airborne, altering their ability to warm or cool the atmosphere. This rapid transformation affects both soot's warming and cooling effects, as well as its lifetime.
Sneaky swirls: scientists confirm ‘hidden’ vortices could influence how soil and snow move
Researchers have confirmed the existence of hidden motions in granular materials like soil and snow, which can control their movement. This discovery could help understand how landslides and avalanches work, as well as benefit industries such as construction and grain filling.
Wildfire collaborative responds to community concerns about air quality
A recent study analyzed hourly data from nearly 750 low-cost and regulatory air pollution sensors throughout LA to understand the impact of wildfires on air quality. The findings suggest that combining different data sources, including ground-based sensors and satellite data, can provide more accurate and comprehensive information.
Are sewage spills and coastal winds contributing to airborne microplastics?
Researchers found that sewage spills from land to sea coincided with winds of at least 6.5m/s on 178 days within a two-year period, potentially sending microplastics into the air. The study suggests that coastal towns and cities may be exposed to billions of airborne microplastic particles.
Eastern air has become cleaner
A long-term study from Saxony shows a significant decrease in air pollution in Eastern Europe, with PM1 concentrations falling by 28% per year. The study's findings indicate improved air quality due to clean energy measures and lower emissions from transportation.
Breaking a century-old physics barrier: perfect wave trapping with simple cylinders
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology and Jeonbuk National University successfully trapped mechanical waves within a single resonator, overcoming a century-old physics barrier. The discovery opens new possibilities for energy harvesting, ultra-sensitive sensors, and advanced communications.
Kīlauea volcano’s ash prompted largest open ocean phytoplankton bloom
A recent study found that volcanic ash from Kīlauea prompted a rare and large summertime phytoplankton bloom in the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre. The blooms were stimulated by iron and other trace elements in the ash, producing massive growth of nitrogen-fixing microbes and organic matter.
Exposure to air pollution may harm brain health of older adults
A new study published in The Journals of Gerontology: Series A found that long-term exposure to high levels of air pollution is associated with lower scores in key cognitive abilities, especially language skills. Exposure to nitrogen dioxide and fine particulate matter was linked to poorer language performance.
Exposure to wildfire smoke linked with worsening mental health conditions
A new study found that exposure to fine particulate air pollution from wildfire smoke was associated with increased visits to emergency departments for mental health conditions. The study suggests that wildfire smoke may play a direct role in worsening mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Fine particulate matter from 2020 California wildfires and mental health–related emergency department visits
A cross-sectional study found wildfire smoke exposure associated with increased odds of mental health-related emergency department visits. The study suggests a possible increase in demand for mental health services during wildfire events.
Diagnosing a dud may lead to a better battery
A team of chemists from Virginia Tech found a way to visualize the intricate structure and chemical reactions of battery interfaces using an X-ray beam line. This breakthrough enables researchers to gain better control over these critical surfaces, potentially leading to cheaper, higher performance batteries.
The proportion of harmful substances in particulate matter is much higher than assumed
Research shows that highly reactive components in particulate matter disappear within hours, leading to inaccurate estimates of their presence and potential health risks. This discovery highlights the need for more accurate measurements and better protective measures.
SNU-GU researchers jointly develop a liquid robot capable of transformation, separation, and fusion like living cells
A liquid robot that can transform, separate, and fuse like living cells has been developed by SNU researchers. The robot features particle-armored hydrophobic particles for structural stability and exceptional deformability for flexibility.
Whose air quality are we monitoring?
Researchers found systemic monitoring disparities for six major pollutants across US Census groups, with Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders facing the largest gaps. The study highlights the need to consider biases in datasets beyond algorithmic bias.
Delhi air pollution worse than expected as water vapour skews figures
New Delhi's air pollution is more severe than previously estimated, with particles absorbing atmospheric water vapor leading to significant underestimation of particulate matter levels. The study highlights the importance of considering hygroscopic growth and its impact on air quality assessments.
Sliding down
Researchers discover that disordered solids lose stability at low-frequency vibrations near zero, leading to a 'loose state' where particles slide in clusters. The theory applies to materials with negligible thermal fluctuations, including those found in space.
New study finds brake pad emissions can be more toxic than diesel exhaust
A new study by the University of Southampton has found that brake pad emissions can be more toxic than diesel exhaust, particularly due to high copper content. The research highlights the need for policy changes to mitigate the health effects of vehicle particulate matter, as electric vehicles are not emission-free.
New 2.5-dimensional skeletons in porous organic crystals are key to superior CO2 separation
Researchers at Institute of Science Tokyo developed porous organic crystals with ultrahigh-density amines, achieving fast CO2 adsorption and high thermal stability. The unique 2.5-dimensional skeleton reduces the cost for CO2 separation from flue gases.
Air pollution levels may be higher inside your home than outside
A new study reveals that people may be exposed to unhealthy levels of airborne pollutants inside their homes, even if the outdoor air quality is good. Researchers used low-cost sensors and innovative techniques to compare particulate matter in three homes, finding significant differences in PM levels.
Researchers are driving the charge of zero emissions
A study by Virginia Tech researchers found that electric vehicles generally produce less non-exhaust emissions than gasoline-powered vehicles when driving in city conditions. The research also highlights the environmental benefits of regenerative braking, which reduces brake abrasion emissions.
Air pollution clouds the mind and makes everyday tasks challenging
Research reveals that even short-term exposure to high levels of particulate matter air pollution impairs cognitive functions such as selective attention and emotion recognition. This study highlights the urgent need for stricter air quality regulations and public health measures to combat the harmful effects of pollution on brain health.
Air pollution impacts an aging society
A study by the University of Tokyo reveals that fine particulate pollution PM2.5 exacerbates pre-existing conditions in elderly populations, leading to higher hospitalization rates and premature mortality, with significant socioeconomic challenges for rural regions with limited medical resources.
More transparency about So Cal’s fire-polluted air
The ASCENT project provides real-time advanced air pollutant measurements, including PM2.5 aerosols and chemical components, to help increase public safety amidst the LA fires. The network measures chemicals emitted by burning structures and household materials, such as lead and chlorine, which can have toxic or carcinogenic effects.
Trends in the sizes and carbonaceous fractions of primary emitted particulate matter in China from 1960 to 2019
China's particulate matter emissions have followed an environmental Kuznets curve, peaking in the mid-1990s. However, finer PM fractions and carbonaceous components have increased due to shifts in industrial energy usage and residential sector transitions. This poses new challenges for air quality policies.
Stop burning the biomass to protect your lungs
A recent study found that biomass burning products are toxic to human lung cells, causing inflammation and oxidative stress. The research emphasizes the need for extended air quality networks across the European Union to monitor key biomass burning markers.
Lower access to air conditioning may increase need for emergency care for wildfire smoke exposure
A new study by Boston University School of Public Health found that lower access to air conditioning increases the need for emergency care for wildfire smoke exposure. People living in areas with low air conditioning availability are at higher risk, especially children and the Black population.
Study by Sylvester, collaborators highlights global trends in risk factors linked to lung cancer deaths
A new study found that while lung cancer deaths decreased globally from 1990 to 2019, mortality linked to tobacco use and air pollution increased. Tobacco remains the leading cause of death, accounting for 66% of TBL cancer deaths in 2019, while particulate matter pollution is a growing concern.
For optimal marathon performance, check training plan, gear, nutrition, weather — and air quality?
A new study by researchers at Brown University found that greater race-day pollution is associated with slower average marathon finish times. Runners' efforts to optimize their performance should consider the effect of air pollution.
Tiny poops in the ocean may help solve the carbon problem
A Dartmouth-led study suggests using clay to convert CO2 into food for zooplankton, which expel it as carbon-filled feces in the deep sea. This method accelerates the ocean's natural cycle for removing carbon from the atmosphere.
Woodburning creates major PM2.5 air pollution issue in UK West Midlands
A new study reveals woodburning contributes significantly to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) levels in the region, accounting for 25% of total PM2.5 mass. The experts recommend targeted measures to mitigate health risks associated with woodburning activities, including raising public awareness and promoting cleaner alternatives.
New data tool maps air pollution from petrochemical facilities in Gulf Coast and Ohio River Valley
A new analysis from PSE Healthy Energy reveals that fine particulate matter emissions from petrochemical facilities contribute to nearly 1,500 premature deaths annually, with estimated economic impacts of $17 billion. The study found that industry growth led to a 12% increase in greenhouse gas emissions between 2012 and 2021.
How quickly can plastic be degraded in nature?
A German Research Foundation-funded project led by Stefan Mecking aims to quantify the biodegradation of polyethylene. The team develops methods to distinguish carbon dioxide from plastic and investigate factors influencing biodegradability, such as molecular structure and functional groups.
Fine particulate air pollution may play a role in adverse birth outcomes
A new study finds that fine particulate air pollution (PM2.5) exposure is associated with altered immune responses and increased inflammation in pregnant women, leading to adverse birth outcomes. The study highlights the importance of minimizing air pollution exposure in pregnant women to protect maternal and fetal health.
Air fryers confirmed as least polluting cooking method
A new study by the University of Birmingham has found that air fryers emit significantly lower levels of particulate matter and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) than other cooking methods. The researchers measured pollutant levels in a well-controlled research kitchen and found that improving ventilation can help reduce indoor pollution.
Wildfire smoke exposure and incident dementia
A cohort study found that long-term exposure to wildfire and fine particulate matter was associated with dementia diagnoses. The study suggests that reducing wildfire PM2.5 exposure could decrease dementia diagnoses and address health disparities.
Rainforest protection reduces the number of respiratory diseases
A study by the University of Bonn and Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais shows that forest protection measures significantly reduce particulate matter in the air, leading to a decrease in hospital stays and deaths due to respiratory diseases. Protective measures are estimated to save around 680 human lives per year.
Air pollution exposure may be associated with eczema
A new study published in PLOS ONE suggests that air pollution exposure may be associated with an increased risk of eczema. Data from hundreds of thousands of U.S. adults found that every 10-µm/m3 increase in PM2.5 levels doubles the eczema rate among residents.
New study links air pollution with higher rates of head and neck cancer
A recent study published in Scientific Reports correlates higher levels of pollutant particulate matter with increased occurrences of head and neck aerodigestive cancer. The research found a significant association between exposure to PM2.5 and the incidence of head and neck cancer, shedding light on the environmental factor contributi...
Exposure to particular sources of air pollution is harmful to children’s learning and memory, a USC study shows
A USC study involving 8,500 children found that exposure to certain sources of air pollution, particularly ammonium nitrate, is linked to poor learning and memory performance in 9- and 10-year-olds. This study contributes to the mounting evidence that fine particulate matter PM2.5 can cause neurocognitive harm across the lifespan.
The Salton Sea — an area rich with lithium — is a hot spot for child respiratory issues
A USC study found that children living closest to the Salton Sea experience more respiratory issues due to airborne dust, triggering asthma, coughing, and disrupted sleep. The study also suggests that dust events have a greater impact on wheezing and sleep disturbances among children in these areas.
Porous dermal fillers show promise for diabetic wound treatment
Researchers developed porous dermal fillers that accelerate tissue healing and regeneration for diabetic wounds. The novel approach combining electrospinning and electrospraying technologies creates biocompatible microspheres that promote cell migration, granulation tissue formation, and neovascularization.
Asthma and fine particulate matter
A new meta-analysis suggests that almost a third of asthma cases are attributable to long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5), with significant health impacts on children and adults. The study highlights the urgent need for policymakers to combat air pollution through stringent legislation.
Increase in air pollution corresponds with more patients at the hospital emergency department
Research finds that increases in air pollution levels correspond with a higher number of patients visiting the hospital emergency department, particularly for cases of trauma, breathing difficulties, and skin conditions. The study suggests that heavy traffic is directly responsible for increased trauma cases and indirectly contributes ...
US air pollution monitoring network has gaps in coverage, say researchers
A new study found that the US air pollution monitoring network has significant gaps in coverage, particularly in historically underrecognized communities. The network's inadequacy to capture exposure disparities has been highlighted as a major concern, with potential health implications for millions of people.
Wildfire smoke exposure boosts risk of mental illness in youth, study suggests
A University of Colorado Boulder study of 10,000 pre-teens found that increased wildfire smoke exposure was linked to symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other internalizing symptoms. Repeated high-level exposures had a greater impact on risk than annual averages or maximum levels.
Exposure to air pollution during pregnancy increases postpartum depression risk for at least three years, study finds
Researchers found that women exposed to higher levels of nitrogen dioxide and inhalable particulate matter during the second trimester face an almost fourfold increased risk of postpartum depression. The study also discovered a sustained effect of air pollution on symptoms of depression for up to three years after birth.
Air pollution exposure in infancy may limit economic mobility in adulthood
A new study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that higher exposure to fine particulate air pollution (PM2.5) during infancy is associated with lower economic earnings in adulthood. The association was strongest in the Midwest and South, where an increase in PM2.5 exposure by one microgram per cubic meter was linked t...
New filtration material could remove long-lasting chemicals from water
A new filtration material developed by MIT researchers uses natural silk and cellulose to remove persistent chemicals, including PFAS and heavy metals. The material's antimicrobial properties help keep filters clean, providing a nature-based solution to water contamination.
Analysis of spray impingement and wall film formation in direct injection engines
The study reveals that colder fuel increases the spray impingement ratio, leading to higher wall adhesion and thicker films. The findings aim to optimize fuel injection strategies for cleaner, more efficient engines.