Graphic of a man with a mouth guard and bags in his hands running in the foreground of a city backdrop. Subtitle particulates (PM1 to PM10)

Air quality

particulates (PM₁ - PM₁₀): Definition, Origin & Consequences

Fine dust particles cannot necessarily be seen, but they can be smelled. They are light and float in the air. But they pose a health hazard, because the small particles enter our bodies almost unhindered and attack the lung tissue in particular. We present the measured value to you in detail.

Author:

Undine Jaehne

Date:

12.8.2022

In closed rooms, the air can hardly mix and pollutants cannot escape. This is because dilution effects are much less effective here. Via car exhaust fumes and other end products from road traffic, such as tire and road abrasion, as well as industrial exhaust fumes and agricultural particles gets particulates into your home. Studies suggest that indoor particulate concentrations can even be up to twice as high as on the street.

particulates (PM₁ - PM₁₀): Causes & Origin

particulates can have numerous causes. Some are natural, such as emissions from volcanic eruptions or forest and bush fires. Then there are biogenic particles, e.g. viruses, spores of fungi and bacteria, pollen count or excretions of house dust mites.

However, the most common cause of particulates is air pollution caused by humans. Industry, agriculture and road, air and water traffic blow exhaust gases into the air. During ventilation, through leaky windows or attached to the clothing as well as the footwear of the residents, the fine dust particles enter the interior. In particular, the activities of the residents influence the fine dust load. For example, it increases when many people move around in the apartment and stir up the particles.

But also cooking, baking or the operation of electronic devices, e.g. a laser printer or a toaster, cause particulate matter levels to skyrocket. In addition, heating systems or fireplaces are major sources of particulate matter. In general, the development of smoke leads to an increase in particulates: i.e. from the lighting of a cigarette or candle to a blazing fireplace.

Reading tip: In our separate articles "particulates in the home" and "Increased fine dust pollution from vacuum cleaners?"you can find out more information about this pollutant.

particulates (PM₁ - PM₁₀): Health consequences

The fine dust particles have a very small diameter and can therefore even reach the bronchial tubes. The result is irritated airways, allergic reactions or, enriched with coal dust, even irreversible destruction of the alveoli.

Some particles also enter the bloodstream and can have a lasting effect on the cardiovascular system, increase the risk of heart attack or even have a carcinogenic effect.

Overview of possible health consequences of particulate matter exposure:

Lung cancer
Lung diseases like asthma & bronchitis
Symptoms of poisoning & headaches
Heart Attack, Thrombosis & Stroke
Restlessness & exhaustion syndrome

How do I avoid too high particulates values?

Do not smoke or use incense, scented sprays or scented candles indoors.
Clean the interior regularly. Also clean the radiators and the spaces between them.
When vacuuming, use a vacuum cleaner with HEPA filter. When dusting, use dust cloths with moss or synthetic fibers, as they efficiently bind particulates through the electrostatic effect.
Ensure a humidity of between 40 and 50 percent. This is because increased humidity makes it more difficult for the fine particles to penetrate and thus keeps them at the bottom.
Monitor fine dust values and humidity in the air, e.g. with the air-Q, and ventilate as needed.
Switch on the cooker hood when cooking.
On days with high particulate pollution, avoid ventilation and use air purifiers instead.