Morphological Characterization and Mixing State of Size Segregated Aerosols in Northern India

HIMANSHI ROHRA, Gursumeeran Satsangi, Ajay Taneja, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India

     Abstract Number: 554
     Working Group: Aerosol Exposure

Abstract
Morphometric characterization of PM in quasi-accumulation (PM0.5-1.0, PM0.25-0.5) and quasi-ultrafine (PM0.25) modes collected through cascade impactor in indoors of residential homes (separated by socio-economic status (SES)) were performed using electron microscopy (SEM-EDX) in Agra, India. Bimodal distribution with the primary mode in 0.25-0.5µm with high mass loading in low-income groups (LIG) was noted. Different kinds of particles like soot, tarballs, and dust particles were observed. Shape descriptive parameters like circularity (0.62-0.72), sphericity (0.10-2.88) aspect-ratio (AR) (1.50-1.88), roundness (RN) (0.18-0.98) indicated non-sphericity of particles. Size dynamics revealed inverse and direct relation of RN and AR respectively with a higher aerodynamic diameter of particles, inferring elongation of larger sized-particles. EDX spectra revealed fewer concentrations of crustal elements in ultrafine and LIG indicating anthropogenicity. Overall, findings suggest that fuel activity, SES have a significant effect on the morphometry of particles that exacerbate the implications to improve IAQ by switching from solid to cleaner fuels.