PM10 particles are made up of a complex mixture of many different particles including soot (carbon), sulphate particles, metals and inorganic salts such as sea salt. The particles vary in size and shape with a diameter less than 10 micron. 1 micron is one millionth of a meter. PM10s are generally produced as an accidental by-product of various chemical or physical processes.
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Common name: PM10, dust and fine particles
Use
PM10s are not deliberately manufactured, although many industrial processes do use powders and dust as a normal input into manufacturing and processing operations. Examples include the Cement and Lime and Iron and Steel sectors.
Releases to the environment
Soot particles are released into the air from combustion processes like coal burning, waste incineration and other industrial processes. Road transport is also a source of emission and types of particulates are created by construction and quarrying and by natural phenomena such as forest fires, volcanoes and dust storms.
Impacts on the environment and human health
Excessive exposure to particulates may cause health effects on the respiratory system. Particles can stick to the surface of buildings resulting in blackening of the facades.
International actions
PM10 is on the EU-Commissions EPER list and listed in the PRTR Protocol under the Århus Convention.
CAS NO: Not applicable