Particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5): Sources of emissions
Industry sources
PM10 and PM2.5 are produced from a wide range of industrial processes through bulk material handling, combustion and minerals processing. The industries using these processes include brickworks, refineries, cement works, iron and steel making, quarrying, and fossil fuel power plants.
Diffuse sources, and industry sources included in diffuse emissions data
Particulates are released from a wide range of diffuse sources. Examples include lawn mowing, wood stoves, fires, and wind generated dust, though this tends to be coarser.
Natural sources
Natural sources of PM10 and PM2.5 include bushfires, dust storms, pollens and sea spray.
Transport sources
Vehicles will generate particulates either from direct emissions from the burning of fuels (especially diesel powered vehicles) or from wear of tyres or vehicle-generated air turbulence on roadways. Particles may also be generated from the action of wind on the dusty material that the vehicle may be carrying.
Consumer products
Particulates are not generally included intentionally in any product but may be present as part of the product, for example as part of talc or other powder products.
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