Particulate Matter in Sedgwick County
Particulate Matter
Particulate matter (PM) is the term for a mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets found in the air. Some particles, such as dust, dirt, soot, or smoke are large or dark enough to be seen with the naked eye. Others are so small; they can only be detected using an electron microscope.
The size of the particles is directly linked to their potential for causing health problems. EPA is concerned about particles that measure 10 micrometers in diameter or smaller. Once inhaled, these particles pass through the throat and nose, enter the lungs, and cause serious health effects.
EPA groups particle pollution into two categories:
1) Inhalable coarse particles, such as those found near roadways and dusty industries, are larger than 2.5 micrometers and smaller than 10 micrometers in diameter.
2) Fine particles, such as those found in smoke and haze, are 2.5 micrometers in diameter and smaller. These particles can be directly emitted from fires, or they can form when gases emitted from power plants, industries and automobiles react in the air. Fine particles are easily inhaled deep into the lungs.
How small is 2.5 micrometers? The average human hair is about 70 micrometers in diameter making it 30 times larger than the largest fine particle. Scientific studies have linked particle pollution; especially fine particles, with aggravated asthma, development of chronic bronchitis, and even premature death in people with heart or lung disease. Children are more susceptible than adults.
Fine particles can remain suspended in the air and travel long distances. They have been linked to environmental damage. As particles settle, the nutrient and chemical balance of soil and water is changed. Particle pollution, unlike ozone, can occur year-round.
Sedgwick County is in attainment of the current particulate matter standards recommended by the EPA.
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