Particulate Matter (PM₁ – PM₁₀): Definition, Causes & Effects
You can't necessarily see particulate matter, but you can smell it. It's light and floats in the air. Yet it poses a health risk, because these tiny particles enter our bodies almost unimpeded and attack lung tissue in particular. We introduce this measured value in detail.
In enclosed spaces, air can barely mix and pollutants cannot escape, since dilution effects are much weaker here. Car exhaust and other by-products of road traffic, such as tire and road abrasion, along with industrial emissions and agricultural particles, all bring particulate matter into your home. Studies suggest that indoor particulate matter concentrations can even be up to twice as high as on the street.
Particulate matter (PM₁ – PM₁₀): causes & formation
Particulate matter can have numerous causes. Some are natural, such as emissions from volcanic eruptions or forest and brush fires. There are also biogenic particles, such as viruses, fungal and bacterial spores, pollen, and dust mite excretions.
The most common cause of particulate matter, however, is human-caused air pollution. Industry, agriculture, and road, air and water traffic all pump exhaust fumes into the air. Particulate matter enters indoor spaces through ventilation, leaky windows, or clinging to residents' clothing and shoes. The activities of the occupants in particular influence particulate matter levels — these rise when many people move around the home and stir up the particles.
But cooking, baking, or operating electronic devices such as a laser printer or a toaster can also cause particulate matter levels to spike. Heating systems and fireplaces are likewise major sources of particulate matter. In general, more particulate matter is produced whenever smoke is generated — from lighting a cigarette or candle to a roaring fireplace fire.
Reading tip: In our dedicated articles “Particulate matter in the home” and “Increased particulate matter from vacuum cleaners?” you can find further information about this pollutant.
Particulate matter (PM₁ – PM₁₀): health effects
Particulate matter particles have a very small diameter and can therefore reach as far as the bronchi. The result is irritated airways, allergic reactions, or — when combined with coal dust — even irreversible destruction of the alveoli.
Some particles also enter the bloodstream, where they can permanently affect the cardiovascular system, increase the risk of heart attack, or even act as carcinogens.
Overview of possible health effects of particulate matter exposure:
- Lung cancer
- Lung diseases such as asthma & bronchitis
- Poisoning symptoms & headaches
- Heart attack, thrombosis & stroke
- Restlessness & exhaustion syndrome
How can I avoid excessive particulate matter levels?
- Don't smoke indoors or use incense sticks, scented sprays, or scented candles.
- Clean indoor spaces regularly, including radiators and the gaps behind them.
- Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter. When dusting, use dust cloths made of moss or synthetic fiber, as these efficiently bind particulate matter through an electrostatic effect.
- Keep humidity between 40 and 50 percent, since elevated humidity weighs down the fine particles and keeps them closer to the ground.
- Monitor particulate matter levels and humidity in the air, e.g. with the air-Q, and ventilate as needed.
- Turn on the range hood while cooking.
- Avoid ventilating on days with high particulate matter levels and use an air purifier instead.
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