Atmospheric particulate matter

Abstract

Atmospheric aerosol constitute one of the most challenging issues in environmental research. The main physico-chemical characteristics, sources and effects of this pollutant are briefly reported in this paper, together with some experimental results regarding the strength of the main emission sources and formation pathways. The relevant role of the dilution properties of the atmosphere in driving the mass concentration of atmospheric particulate matter and in determining high pollution events is elucidated. Some episodes of biomass burning pollution and desert dust long-range transport are discussed.