Particulate Matter Characterization in Manila Observatory

Particulate matter (PM) samples were collected from March to June 2007 on filters using a multi-stage filter setup. Each event generated a sample from fine (<2.5 μm), coarse (>2.5 μm and <10 μm) and >10 μm (> PM10) size fractions. The samples were analyzed for gravimetric and ionic content. Total particulate mass was seen to be dominated by fine particulates while particulates greater than PM10 had a minute presence. Sulfate and ammonium appeared mostly in the fine fraction, and nitrate mostly in the coarse fraction. Fine sulfate and coarse nitrate were found to be correlated to daily maximum surface global solar radiation.

[Presented at the Samahang Pisika ng Pilipinas (SPP) Congress, 2008.]