The seasonal variation of PM1 and PM2.5 mass concentration and composition has been investigated in the great urban area of Milan. PM samplings were carried out 3 times a week during the year 2002. Mass and elemental concentrations were measured in all samples and in a limited number of filters also the elemental and organic carbon contribution (EC and OC) was determined.
In the urban area of Milan, PM2.5 comprises about 60% and 70% of the PM1 mass in summer and in winter, respectively. Among the measured PM components carbon compounds and sulphates are by far the major contributors and a significant contribution likely due to nitrates (not measured) should also be considered. PM1 and PM2.5 concentration and composition show a strong seasonal behaviour, which was studied in relation to atmospheric dispersion conditions.
Our approach is based on the use of Radon concentration as a natural tracer of differences in the average mixing layer height during the year. The application of a suitable “Radon index” allows the normalisation of PM mass and elemental data to account for the seasonal effect due to differences in atmospheric dispersion conditions.