- This study examined carbon-based components of particulate matter (PM) in three urban locations in Phnom Penh, Cambodia: a university, a governmental institution, and a residential area near a landfill, using specialized sampling techniques to analyze ultrafine particles (UFPs).
- Results showed that while mass concentration of PM didn't significantly differ between weekdays and weekends, the profiles varied across locations; the university had high levels of elemental carbon (EC) suggesting vehicular emissions, whereas the landfill site showed higher organic carbon (OC) due to waste-related activities.
- Additionally, the Ministry of Environment site had a balanced OC and EC profile, influenced by nearby natural factors, and overall, both local emissions and transboundary influences from agricultural burning
The study examined seasonal changes in particulate matter (PM) levels, particularly ultrafine particles (≤100 nm), in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, noting higher concentrations in the dry season due to vehicle emissions and agricultural burning.
On average, UFP levels during the dry season were 23.73 ± 3.7 µg/m, higher than the wet season's 19.64 ± 3.4 µg/m, with wet season reductions attributed to rain clearing the air.
The analysis revealed varying carbon and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) concentrations based on the season, indicating that combustion processes significantly contribute to PM pollution and highlighting the importance of targeting specific pollution sources in different seasons.