Feinstaub(PM10)- und Pollenbelastung im Winter und ihre Abhängigkeit von der Wetterlage

Particulate matter (PM) is the general term used for a mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets found in the air. These particles, which come in a wide range of sizes (fine particles are less than 2.5 μm in diameter and coarser-size particles are larger than 2.5 μm), originating from many different stationary and mobile sources as well as from natural sources. Fine particles result from fuel combustion from motor vehicles, power generation and industrial facilities as well as from residential fireplaces and wood stoves. Coarse particles (PM10) are generally emitted from sources, such as vehicles traveling on unpaved roads, materials handling and crushing and grinding operations, as well as windblown dust. Inhalable PM includes both fine and coarse particles. These particles can accumulate in the respiratory system and are associated with numerous health effects. Exposure to coarse particles is primarily associated with the aggravation of respiratory conditions, such as asthma. Fine particles are most closely associated with such health effects like increased hospital admissions and emergency room visits for heart and lung disease, increased respiratory symptoms and disease, decreased lung function, and even premature death. Sensitive groups that appear to be at greatest risk to such effects include the elderly, individuals with cardiopulmonary disease such as asthma, and children. This study investigates PM10 and airborne pollen during different years and shows connections between weather conditions in winter time and these particles.