PM(10) episodes in Greece: Local sources versus long-range transport-observations and model simulations.

Unlabelled: Periods of abnormally high concentrations of atmospheric pollutants, defined as air pollution episodes, can cause adverse health effects. Southern European countries experience high particulate matter (PM) levels originating from local and distant sources. In this study, we investigated the occurrence and nature of extreme PM (PM with an aerodynamic diameter ≤10 μm) pollution episodes in Greece.

ESEM-EDX characterisation of airborne particles from an industrialised area of northern Greece.

The aim of this study was to characterise individual airborne particles collected from the Ptolemais-Kozani region (Western Macedonia), northern Greece. Throughout a 1-year period (March 2003 to February 2004), we collected several filters that captured airborne particles at seven sampling sites distributed throughout the area. The airborne particles captured on the filters were then characterised by environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM) coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX).

Levels and trend of suspended particles around large lignite power stations.

The results of a 16 year long sampling program in a heavily industrialized area of NW Greece are presented and analyzed. Four lignite power stations are operated in this area, which account for about 70% of the total electrical energy produced in Greece. Ambient concentrations of Total Suspended Particles (TSP) over much of the period 1983-1998 as well as of particles of less than 10 microm aerodynamic diameter (PM10) for three years were measured.

Respirable particulate matter at an urban and nearby industrial location: concentrations and variability and synoptic weather conditions during high pollution episodes.

Continuous data of the concentration measurements of respirable suspended particulates (PM10, particles with aerodynamic diameter smaller than or equal to 10 pm) were analyzed. These measurements were carried out at an urban and nearby industrial location in northern Greece for the 5-year period 1996-2000. The time series concentration trend was examined, the seasonal and diurnal variations were identified, and the lognormality of the daily mean concentration data sets was tested.