Particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5): Overview
Description
PM10 is particulate matter 10 micrometers or less in diameter, PM2.5 is particulate matter 2.5 micrometers or less in diameter. PM2.5 is generally described as fine particles. By way of comparison, a human hair is about 100 micrometres, so roughly 40 fine particles could be placed on its width.
PM10 and PM2.5 are not used for any application.
Substance details
Substance name: Particulate matter (less than 10 micrometers in diameter or less than 2.5micrometres in diameter)
Synonyms: dust, particulate matter, inhalable particles, respirable particles, smoke, mist
Physical properties
Particles of any substances that are less than 10 or 2.5 micrometres diameter. Particles in this size range make up a large proportion of dust that can be drawn deep into the lungs. Larger particles tend to be trapped in the nose, mouth or throat.
Chemical properties
The chemical properties vary depending on sources of particles. It is important to note that particulates are not one particular chemical substance but a classification of particles by size rather then chemical properties.
Further information
The National Pollutant Inventory (NPI) holds data for all sources of Particulate matter (PM10) emissions in Australia.
- Australia's Particulate matter (PM10) emission report
- Australia's Particulate matter (PM2.5) emission report
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