Measurement report: Size-resolved chemical characterisation of aerosols in low-income urban settlements in South Africa

Abstract. Naturally and anthropogenically emitted aerosols, which are determined by their physical chemical properties, have an impact on both air quality the radiative properties of earth. An important source atmospheric particulate matter (PM) in South Africa is household combustion for space heating cooking, predominantly occurs low-income urban settlements. The aim this study was to conduct a detailed size-resolved assessment characteristics aerosols associated with through collection particulates settlements quantify extent impacts pollution. Outdoor (ambient) indoor different size fractions were collected during summer winter four located north-eastern interior African Highveld, i.e. Kwadela, Kwazamokuhle, Zamdela, Jouberton. Mass concentration composition three fractions, namely, PM1, PM2.5, PM2.5−10. highest concentrations measured indoors mass PM2.5−10 (coarse) fraction. However, PM1 all outdoor aerosol samples summer, summer. Significantly higher SO4-2 compared other ionic species, NH4+ NO3- being second most abundant. almost exclusively occurred fraction, while major constituent larger fractions. levels recorded campaigns conducted at campaign. combined trace elements total element substantially than thereof two sampling campaigns. No distinct seasonal trend observed elements. Na, Ca, Cr had Ni exceeded annual average European standard. organic carbon (OC) elemental (EC) concentrations. OC EC winter, can be attributed changes meteorological patterns increased winter. Low OC/EC ratios indicative mainly local sources these species. order magnitude lower ambient Africa, similar measured. According estimated dust concentrations, it indicated that ranges study, made contribution PM1−2.5 mass. reflect regional anthropogenic influence sources.