An analysis of the PM₁₀ chemical composition and its spatial and seasonal variation in Piedmont (Italy) using Raman spectroscopy

Particulate Matter (PM) dramatically affects the well-being of a growing global population, particularly in urban areas. While air quality control is an important and pressing issue, particulate matter analysis typically focuses on size distribution and concentration, offering limited insights into chemical composition and pollutant sources. This study analyzes PM₁₀ samples collected from five air quality monitoring stations across the Piedmont region. Specifically, the two of the stations are located in the urban environment of Turin, a city known as one of Europe's most polluted cities. The analysis has been carried out using primarily Raman Spectroscopy (RS) to identify the main PM components, investigate the different PM compositions, and evaluate the chemical and seasonal variations. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) equipped with an Energy Dispersion X-ray spectrophotometer (EDX) has also been used to obtain further information about the elemental composition and the size distribution. Amorphous carbon, nitrate salt, sulfate salt, iron oxides, and quartz are the main compounds found. The results of our study highlight significant differences in the chemical composition of PM₁₀, indicating variations in the sources and characteristics of PM. Notably, higher levels of nitrate and sulfate particles are linked respectively to cold and warm seasons. Whereas, amorphous carbon and iron oxides are associated with distinct geographic features at the sampling sites, such as traffic conditions. These findings emphasize the importance of understanding the different sources and characteristics of PM₁₀ to develop effective air pollution mitigation strategies in the Piedmont region.