1
|
Azad S, Luglio DG, Gordon T, Thurston G, Ghandehari M. Particulate matter concentration and composition in the New York City subway system. ATMOSPHERIC POLLUTION RESEARCH 2023; 14:101767. [PMID: 37275568 PMCID: PMC10237451 DOI: 10.1016/j.apr.2023.101767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the concentration and composition of particulate matter (PM2.5) in the New York City subway system. Realtime measurements, at a one-second cadence, and gravimetric measurements were performed inside train cars along 300 kilometers of nine subway lines, as well as on 333 platforms from 287 subway stations. The mean (±SD) PM2.5 concentration on the underground platforms was 142 ± 69 μg/m3 versus 29 ± 20 μg/m3 for aboveground stations. The average Concentrations inside train cars were 88 ± 14 μg/m3 when traveling through underground tunnels and platforms and 29 ± 31 μg/m3 while on aboveground tracks. The particle composition analysis of filtered samples was done using X-ray fluorescence (XRF), revealing that iron made up approximately 43% of the total PM2.5 mass on station platforms, around 126 times higher than the outdoor ambient iron concentration. Other trace elements include silicon, sulfur, copper, nickel, aluminum, calcium, barium, and manganese. Considering the very high iron content, the comparative analysis of the measured concentration versus the standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) is questionable since those limits are largely based on particulate matter from fossil fuel combustion. Health impact analysis of iron-based particles will complement the study results presented here.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shams Azad
- Department of Civil and Urban Engineering, New York University, Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - David G. Luglio
- Department of Medicine, New York University Langone Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Terry Gordon
- Department of Medicine, New York University Langone Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - George Thurston
- Department of Medicine, New York University Langone Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Masoud Ghandehari
- Department of Civil and Urban Engineering, New York University, Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Yang J, Fan X, Zhang H, Zheng W, Ye T. A review on characteristics and mitigation strategies of indoor air quality in underground subway stations. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 869:161781. [PMID: 36708828 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.161781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Due to the rapidly increasing ridership and the relatively enclosed underground space, the indoor air quality (IAQ) in underground subway stations (USSs) has attracted more public attention. The air pollutants in USSs, such as particulate matter (PM), CO2 and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), are hazardous to the health of passengers and staves. Firstly, this paper presents a systematic review on the characteristics and sources of air pollutants in USSs. According to the review work, the concentrations of PM, CO2, VOCs, bacteria and fungi in USSs are 1.1-13.2 times higher than the permissible concentration limits specified by WHO, ASHRAE and US EPA. The PM and VOCs are mainly derived from the internal and outdoor sources. CO2 concentrations are highly correlated with the passenger density and the ventilation rate while the exposure levels of bacteria and fungi depend on the thermal conditions and the settled dust. Then, the online monitoring, fault detection and prediction methods of IAQ are summarized and the advantages and disadvantages of these methods are also discussed. In addition, the available control strategies for improving IAQ in USSs are reviewed, and these strategies are classified and compared from different viewpoints. Lastly, challenges of the IAQ management in the context of the COVID-19 epidemic and several suggestions for underground stations' IAQ management in the future are put forward. This paper is expected to provide a comprehensive guidance for further research and design of the effective prevention measures on air pollutants in USSs so as to achieve more sustainable and healthy underground environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junbin Yang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PR China
| | - Xianwang Fan
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PR China
| | - Huan Zhang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PR China; Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization of Low and Medium Grade Energy (Tianjin University), Ministry of Education of China, Tianjin 300350, PR China; National Engineering Laboratory for Digital Construction and Evaluation Technology of Urban Rail Transit, Tianjin 300000, PR China
| | - Wandong Zheng
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PR China; Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization of Low and Medium Grade Energy (Tianjin University), Ministry of Education of China, Tianjin 300350, PR China; National Engineering Laboratory for Digital Construction and Evaluation Technology of Urban Rail Transit, Tianjin 300000, PR China.
| | - Tianzhen Ye
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PR China; Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization of Low and Medium Grade Energy (Tianjin University), Ministry of Education of China, Tianjin 300350, PR China; National Engineering Laboratory for Digital Construction and Evaluation Technology of Urban Rail Transit, Tianjin 300000, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kappelt N, Russell HS, Fessa D, Ryswyk KV, Hertel O, Johnson MS. Particulate air pollution in the Copenhagen metro part 1: Mass concentrations and ventilation. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 171:107621. [PMID: 36493608 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2022.107621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The Copenhagen Metro comprises four lines, the M1, M2, M3 and M4, with 25 subterranean stations and an additional 14 stations above ground, serving ca. 80 million passengers annually. In this study we measure fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations in stations and in trains across the entire system. In partially underground lines, high PM2.5 concentrations with an average of 109 μg m-3 are found in below-ground stations. The observed correlation between PM2.5 concentration and distance between a station and a tunnel exit is attributed to ventilation via the piston effect. The piston effect via tunnel draught relief shafts was therefore found to be relatively limited. Filter samples of particulate matter are analysed using particle-induced X-ray emission and show an iron content of 88.6 % by mass which is quite different from above-ground particulate matter and consistent with particle production by train wheels, rails and brakes. The average concentration measured at the stations of a recently opened (2019) fully underground M3 closed loop line is 168 μg m-3, further demonstrating that while piston effect-driven ventilation is effective in close proximity to tunnel openings, it is relatively limited via tunnel draught relief shafts. Measurements onboard trains show even higher PM2.5 concentrations and the patterns in CO2 concentrations suggest carriage ventilation by tunnel air. Ventilation via doors during platform stops caused a drop in observed PM (and CO2) at stations, but the system is surprisingly polluted despite its recent construction. CO2 mixing ratios ranged from ambient to around 600 ppm. Measures should be taken to control PM levels using a combination of source control and increased clean air supply of the Copenhagen and other similar metro systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Niklas Kappelt
- Department of Chemistry, Copenhagen University, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Airlabs, Nannasgade 28, DK-2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Hugo S Russell
- Airlabs, Nannasgade 28, DK-2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark; Danish Big Data Centre for Environment and Health (BERTHA), Aarhus University, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark; Department of Environmental Science, Aarhus University, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Dafni Fessa
- Department of Environmental Science, Aarhus University, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Keith Van Ryswyk
- Air Health Science Division, Health Canada, Ottawa K1A 0K9, Canada; Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto M5S 3E5, Canada
| | - Ole Hertel
- Danish Big Data Centre for Environment and Health (BERTHA), Aarhus University, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark; Department of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Matthew S Johnson
- Department of Chemistry, Copenhagen University, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Airlabs, Nannasgade 28, DK-2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Sheikh HA, Tung PY, Ringe E, Harrison RJ. Magnetic and microscopic investigation of airborne iron oxide nanoparticles in the London Underground. Sci Rep 2022; 12:20298. [PMID: 36522360 PMCID: PMC9755232 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-24679-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Particulate matter (PM) concentration levels in the London Underground (LU) are higher than London background levels and beyond World Health Organization (WHO) defined limits. Wheel, track, and brake abrasion are the primary sources of particulate matter, producing predominantly Fe-rich particles that make the LU microenvironment particularly well suited to study using environmental magnetism. Here we combine magnetic properties, high-resolution electron microscopy, and electron tomography to characterize the structure, chemistry, and morphometric properties of LU particles in three dimensions with nanoscale resolution. Our findings show that LU PM is dominated by 5-500 nm particles of maghemite, occurring as 0.1-2 μm aggregated clusters, skewing the size-fractioned concentration of PM artificially to larger sizes when measured with traditional monitors. Magnetic properties are largely independent of the PM filter size (PM10, PM4, and PM2.5), and demonstrate the presence of superparamagnetic (< 30 nm), single-domain (30-70 nm), and vortex/pseudo-single domain (70-700 nm) signals only (i.e., no multi-domain particles > 1 µm). The oxidized nature of the particles suggests that PM exposure in the LU is dominated by resuspension of aged dust particles relative to freshly abraded, metallic particles from the wheel/track/brake system, suggesting that periodic removal of accumulated dust from underground tunnels might provide a cost-effective strategy for reducing exposure. The abundance of ultrafine particles identified here could have particularly adverse health impacts as their smaller size makes it possible to pass from lungs to the blood stream. Magnetic methods are shown to provide an accurate assessment of ultrafine PM characteristics, providing a robust route to monitoring, and potentially mitigating this hazard.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H. A. Sheikh
- grid.5335.00000000121885934Department of Earth Sciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EQ UK
| | - P. Y. Tung
- grid.5335.00000000121885934Department of Earth Sciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EQ UK ,grid.5335.00000000121885934Department of Materials Sciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB3 0FS UK
| | - E. Ringe
- grid.5335.00000000121885934Department of Earth Sciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EQ UK ,grid.5335.00000000121885934Department of Materials Sciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB3 0FS UK
| | - R. J. Harrison
- grid.5335.00000000121885934Department of Earth Sciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EQ UK
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ji W, Zhao K, Liu C, Li X. Spatial characteristics of fine particulate matter in subway stations: Source apportionment and health risks. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 305:119279. [PMID: 35405218 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.119279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Air in subway stations is typically more polluted than ambient air, and particulate matter concentrations and compositions can vary greatly by location, even within a subway station. However, it is not known how the sources of particulate matter vary between different areas within subway stations, and source-specific health risks in subway stations are unclear. We analyzed the spatial characteristics of particulate matter by source and calculated source-specific health risks on subway platforms and concourses and in station offices by integrating source apportionment with health risk assessments. A total of 182 samples were collected in three areas in six subway stations in Nanjing, China. Enrichment factors and the positive matrix factorization receptor model were used to identify major sources. The carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic health risks to subway workers and passengers were evaluated to determine control priorities. Seven sources of particulate matter were identified in each area, with a total of four subway sources and six outdoor sources over all the areas. The source contributions to total element mass differed significantly from the source contributions to human health risks. Overall, subway sources contributed 48% of total element mass in the station office and 75% and 60% on the concourse and platform, respectively. Subway-derived sources accounted for 54%, 81%, and 71% of non-carcinogenic health risks on station platforms, concourses, and office areas, respectively. The corresponding values for carcinogenic risks were 51%, 86%, and 86%. Among the elements, cobalt had the largest contributions to carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks, followed by manganese for non-carcinogenic risks and hexavalent chromium for carcinogenic risks. Reducing emissions from subway sources could effectively protect the health of subway workers and passengers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Ji
- School of Civil and Resource Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Kaijia Zhao
- School of Civil and Resource Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Chenghao Liu
- School of Civil and Resource Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Xiaofeng Li
- Department of Building Science, School of Architecture, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Indoor Air Quality Evaluation and Control, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Chen Y, Zhang W, Dong C, Hutchinson SM, Feng H. Characteristics of iron-containing magnetic particles in household dust from an urban area: A case study in the megacity of Shanghai. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 424:127212. [PMID: 34879540 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.127212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
In order to characterize the magnetic properties and trace sources of household dust particles, magnetic measurements, geochemical and SEM/TEM analyses were performed on vacuum dust from 40 homes in Shanghai, China. Iron-containing magnetic particles (IMPs) in the household dust were dominated by magnetite, while maghemite, hematite and metallic iron were also present. The IMPs were mainly composed of coarse-grained particles (e.g., >0.1 µm). Ultrafine superparamagnetic (SP) grains (<30 nm) increased proportionately with the abundance of the total IMPs. Household dust had more and coarser IMPs than background soil, but less and finer IMPs than street dust and industrial emissions (coal combustion and metallurgy). Metallic Fe and spherical IMPs, originating from brake wear abrasion and coal combustion, respectively, have been observed using the SEM/TEM. Contents of magnetic particles were positively correlated to Mo, Ni and Sb, while HIRM was associated with As, Mo, Pb and Sb. The multiple lines of evidence including magnetic measurements, geochemical and SEM/TEM analyses suggested that industrial and traffic emissions and street dust were dominant contributors to the IMPs. Such an approach can help to establish more precisely the sources of household dust particles and could be applied to other indoor contexts and further urban environments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yinglu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, Shanghai 201100, PR China
| | - Weiguo Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, Shanghai 201100, PR China
| | - Chenyin Dong
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Health Risk Assessment, South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Guangzhou 510655, PR China; Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China.
| | - Simon M Hutchinson
- School of Science, Engineering and Environment, University of Salford, Gt. Manchester M5 4WT, UK
| | - Huan Feng
- Department of Earth and Environmental Studies, Montclair State University, Montclair, NJ 07043, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Babaoğlu NU, Elsayed K, Parvaz F, Foroozesh J, Hosseini SH, Ahmadi G. Analysis and optimization of louvered separator using genetic algorithm and artificial neural network. POWDER TECHNOL 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.powtec.2021.117077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
|
8
|
Peng L, Shen Y, Gao W, Zhou J, Pan L, Kan H, Cai J. Personal exposure to PM 2.5 in five commuting modes under hazy and non-hazy conditions. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 289:117823. [PMID: 34325093 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.117823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Effective reducing exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) during commuting can help lower the risk of adverse health effects therefrom; however, few studies have examined the influence of different background levels of air pollution-particularly in China where PM2.5 concentrations are high globally. In this study, personal sampling was conducted to measure individual exposure during five different modes of commuting (bus, metro, car, bicycle and walking) in Shanghai, China. A total of 125 measurements were conducted for five days under haze and non-haze conditions, following which the corresponding doses of PM2.5 inhaled were estimated. The mean concentrations (±standard deviation, SD, 1-min averaging) of background PM2.5 were 155.9 (±98.7) μg/m3 during haze and 36.3 (±17.6) μg/m3 under the non-haze conditions. Under both conditions, active commuters were exposed to higher PM2.5 concentrations than those using motorized commuting modes (Wilcoxon test, p < 0.01). Moreover, driving with closed windows and air conditioning effectively reduces the PM2.5 concentrations in cars by 35 %-57 %. Cyclists inhaled the highest doses (539.8 ± 313.2 and 134.8 ± 71.3 μg/h under haze and non-haze conditions, respectively), whereas car drivers inhaled the lowest doses (28.8 ± 21.2 and 3.7 ± 2.6 μg/h under haze and non-haze conditions, respectively). Individual exposure to PM2.5 during commuting varied with the modes; the discrepancy between the latter depended largely on the ambient concentration. Our findings provided evidence that traffic-related air pollution contributed to daily pollutant exposure and highlighted the importance of taking personal protective measures while commuting, particularly during haze.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li Peng
- Shanghai Typhoon Institute, China Meteorological Administration, Shanghai, 200030, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Meteorology and Health, Shanghai Meteorological Service, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanling Shen
- School of Public Health, Key Lab of Public Health Safety of the Ministry of Education and Key Lab of Health Technology Assessment of the Ministry of Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Wei Gao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Meteorology and Health, Shanghai Meteorological Service, Shanghai, China
| | - Ji Zhou
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Meteorology and Health, Shanghai Meteorological Service, Shanghai, China
| | - Liang Pan
- Shanghai Typhoon Institute, China Meteorological Administration, Shanghai, 200030, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Meteorology and Health, Shanghai Meteorological Service, Shanghai, China
| | - Haidong Kan
- School of Public Health, Key Lab of Public Health Safety of the Ministry of Education and Key Lab of Health Technology Assessment of the Ministry of Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Meteorology and Health, Shanghai Meteorological Service, Shanghai, China; Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of NPFPC, SIPPR, IRD, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jing Cai
- School of Public Health, Key Lab of Public Health Safety of the Ministry of Education and Key Lab of Health Technology Assessment of the Ministry of Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Meteorology and Health, Shanghai Meteorological Service, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Chang L, Chong WT, Wang X, Pei F, Zhang X, Wang T, Wang C, Pan S. Recent progress in research on PM 2.5 in subways. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. PROCESSES & IMPACTS 2021; 23:642-663. [PMID: 33889885 DOI: 10.1039/d1em00002k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Nowadays, PM2.5 concentrations greatly influence indoor air quality in subways and threaten passenger and staff health because PM2.5 not only contains heavy metal elements, but can also carry toxic and harmful substances due to its small size and large specific surface area. Exploring the physicochemical and distribution characteristics of PM2.5 in subways is necessary to limit its concentration and remove it. At present, there are numerous studies on PM2.5 in subways around the world, yet, there is no comprehensive and well-organized review available on this topic. This paper reviews the nearly twenty years of research and over 130 published studies on PM2.5 in subway stations, including aspects such as concentration levels and their influencing factors, physicochemical properties, sources, impacts on health, and mitigation measures. Although many determinants of station PM2.5 concentration have been reported in current studies, e.g., the season, outdoor environment, and station depth, their relative influence is uncertain. The sources of subway PM2.5 include those from the exterior (e.g., road traffic and fuel oil) and the interior (e.g., steel wheels and rails and metallic brake pads), but the proportion of these sources is also unknown. Control strategies of PM mainly include adequate ventilation and filtration, but these measures are often inefficient in removing PM2.5. The impacts of PM2.5 from subways on human health are still poorly understood. Further research should focus on long-term data collection, influencing factors, the mechanism of health impacts, and PM2.5 standards or regulations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li Chang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603, Malaysia.
| | - Wen Tong Chong
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603, Malaysia.
| | - Xinru Wang
- College of Emergency Technology and Management, North China Institute of Science and Technology, Hebei 065201, China
| | - Fei Pei
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Green Built Environment and Energy Efficient Technology, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, 100124, China
| | - Xingxing Zhang
- Department of Energy, Forest and Built Environment, Dalarna University, Falun, 79188, Sweden
| | - Tongzhao Wang
- Rizhao Fire and Rescue Station, Rizhao, 276800, China
| | - Chunqing Wang
- School of Municipal and Environmental Engineering, Jilin Jianzhu University, Jilin, 130118, China
| | - Song Pan
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Green Built Environment and Energy Efficient Technology, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, 100124, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Altaf R, Altaf S, Hussain M, Shah RU, Ullah R, Ullah MI, Rauf A, Ansari MJ, Alharbi SA, Alfarraj S, Datta R. Heavy metal accumulation by roadside vegetation and implications for pollution control. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0249147. [PMID: 33983956 PMCID: PMC8118294 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0249147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Vehicular emissions cause heavy metal pollution and exert negative impacts on environment and roadside vegetation. Wild plants growing along roadsides are capable of absorbing considerable amounts of heavy metals; thus, could be helpful in reducing heavy metal pollution. Therefore, current study inferred heavy metal absorbance capacity of some wild plant species growing along roadside. Four different wild plant species, i.e., Acacia nilotica L., Calotropis procera L., Ricinus communis L., and Ziziphus mauritiana L. were selected for the study. Leaf samples of these species were collected from four different sites, i.e., Control, New Lahore, Nawababad and Fatehabad. Leaf samples were analyzed to determine Pb2+, Zn2+, Ni2+, Mn2+ and Fe3+ accumulation. The A. nilotica, Z. mauritiana and C. procera accumulated significant amount of Pb at New Lahore site. Similarly, R. communis and A. nilotica accumulated higher amounts of Mn, Zn and Fe at Nawababad and New Lahore sites compared to the rest of the species. Nonetheless, Z. mauritiana accumulated higher amounts of Ni at all sites compared with the other species included in the study. Soil surface contributed towards the uptake of heavy metals in leaves; therefore, wild plant species should be grown near the roadsides to control heavy metals pollution. Results revealed that wild plants growing along roadsides accumulate significant amounts of heavy metals. Therefore, these species could be used to halt the vehicular pollution along roadsides and other polluted areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rubina Altaf
- Department of Botany, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Sikandar Altaf
- Institute of Environmental Science and Engineering, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, National University of Science and Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Mumtaz Hussain
- Department of Botany, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Rahmat Ullah Shah
- Department of Soil Science, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Rehmat Ullah
- Soil and Water Testing Laboratory, Dera Ghazi Khan, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Ihsan Ullah
- Sorghum Research Substation, Department of Agriculture, Dera Ghazi Khan, Pakistan
| | - Abdul Rauf
- Department of Agricultural Research (Field), Dera Ghazi Khan, Pakistan
| | - Mohammad Javed Ansari
- Department of Botany, Hindu College Moradabad (Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Rohilkhand University Bareilly), Moradabad, India
| | - Sulaiman Ali Alharbi
- Department of Botany & Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh Alfarraj
- Zoology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rahul Datta
- Department of Geology and Soil Science, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, Mendel University in Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Wen Y, Leng J, Shen X, Han G, Sun L, Yu F. Environmental and Health Effects of Ventilation in Subway Stations: A Literature Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17031084. [PMID: 32046319 PMCID: PMC7037944 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17031084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Environmental health in subway stations, a typical type of urban underground space, is becoming increasingly important. Ventilation is the principal measure for optimizing the complex physical environment in a subway station. This paper narratively reviews the environmental and health effects of subway ventilation and discusses the relevant engineering, environmental, and medical aspects in combination. Ventilation exerts a notable dual effect on environmental health in a subway station. On the one hand, ventilation controls temperature, humidity, and indoor air quality to ensure human comfort and health. On the other hand, ventilation also carries the potential risks of spreading air pollutants or fire smoke through the complex wind environment as well as produces continuous noise. Assessment and management of health risks associated with subway ventilation is essential to attain a healthy subway environment. This, however, requires exposure, threshold data, and thereby necessitates more research into long-term effects, and toxicity as well as epidemiological studies. Additionally, more research is needed to further examine the design and maintenance of ventilation systems. An understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms and aerodynamic characteristics of various pollutants can help formulate ventilation strategies to reduce pollutant concentrations. Moreover, current comprehensive underground space development affords a possibility for creating flexible spaces that optimize ventilation efficiency, acoustic comfort, and space perception.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yueming Wen
- School of Architecture, Future Underground Space Institute, Southeast University, Nanjing 210019, Jiangsu, China; (Y.W.); (G.H.); (L.S.); (F.Y.)
| | - Jiawei Leng
- School of Architecture, Future Underground Space Institute, Southeast University, Nanjing 210019, Jiangsu, China; (Y.W.); (G.H.); (L.S.); (F.Y.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-025-83790760
| | - Xiaobing Shen
- School of Public Health, Station and Train Health Institute, Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, Southeast University, Nanjing 210019, Jiangsu, China;
| | - Gang Han
- School of Architecture, Future Underground Space Institute, Southeast University, Nanjing 210019, Jiangsu, China; (Y.W.); (G.H.); (L.S.); (F.Y.)
| | - Lijun Sun
- School of Architecture, Future Underground Space Institute, Southeast University, Nanjing 210019, Jiangsu, China; (Y.W.); (G.H.); (L.S.); (F.Y.)
| | - Fei Yu
- School of Architecture, Future Underground Space Institute, Southeast University, Nanjing 210019, Jiangsu, China; (Y.W.); (G.H.); (L.S.); (F.Y.)
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Ngoc LTN, Lee Y, Chun HS, Moon JY, Choi JS, Park D, Lee YC. Correlation of α/γ-Fe 2O 3 nanoparticles with the toxicity of particulate matter originating from subway tunnels in Seoul stations, Korea. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2020; 382:121175. [PMID: 31561194 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2019.121175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Revised: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
According to the increasing concern about particulate matter (PM) pollution at subway systems, particularly its potentially severe effects on human health, this study investigated the constituents, characteristics, and toxicity of PM collected at underground subway stations in Seoul, Korea. It was found that α/γ-Fe2O3 NPs, which are considered as thermal products derived from the brake-wheel-rail interface, were the main components of PM (57.6% and 48% of PM10 and PM2.5, respectively). In addition, hydrothermally synthesized α/γ-Fe2O3 NPs, proposing to possess similar properties to those of Fe2O3 contained in PM, were used to investigate the correlation of these oxides with PM toxicity. In particular, the synthesized γ-Fe2O3 NPs induced a negligibly toxic, while the synthesized α-Fe2O3 NPs and PM showed remarkably toxic effects on HeLa cells and zebrafish embryos, specifically in reducing cell proliferation to 85% and 72% survival, causing high apoptosis of 29.8% and 29.3%, and inhibiting the development of embryos up to 60% and 8% after prolonged exposure, respectively. It is considered that α-Fe2O3 NPs were primarily responsible for the harmful effects of PM, resulting in significant damage to DNA due to their capacity of producing high reactive oxygen species (ROS) and, thus, deleterious effects on the human body.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Le Thi Nhu Ngoc
- Department of BioNano Technology, Gachon University, 1342 Seongnam-Daero, Sujeong-Gu, Seongnam-Si, Gyeonggi-do, 13120, Republic of Korea
| | - Yongil Lee
- Korea Railroad Research Institute (KRRI), 176 Cheoldobakmulkwan-ro, Uiwang-si, 16105, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Hang-Suk Chun
- Department of Predictive Toxicology, Korea Institute of Toxicology (KIT), Daejeon, 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Ju-Young Moon
- Department of Beauty Design Management, Hansung University, 116 Samseongyoro-16gil, Seoul, 02876, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Seok Choi
- Analysis Center for Research Advancement, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Duckshin Park
- Korea Railroad Research Institute (KRRI), 176 Cheoldobakmulkwan-ro, Uiwang-si, 16105, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea.
| | - Young-Chul Lee
- Department of BioNano Technology, Gachon University, 1342 Seongnam-Daero, Sujeong-Gu, Seongnam-Si, Gyeonggi-do, 13120, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Rosli A, Loh S, Yusoff F. Synthesis and Characterization of Magnetic Fe3O4/Reduced
Graphene Oxide and its Application in Determination of Dopamine. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.14233/ajchem.2019.22213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
An electrochemical sensor to determine dopamine in the human body was fabricated based on modified iron oxide/reduced graphene oxide/glassy carbon electrode (Fe3O4/r-GO/GCE). Determination of dopamine is significance nowadays as the abnormal level may cause various mental health diseases as well as Parkinson’s disease. The Fe3O4/r-GO nanocomposite was synthesized via Hummer’s method with a slight modification and characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Brunauer Emmett-Teller (BET). The presence of
Fe3O4 onto the surface of r-GO was confirmed by SEM analysis which shows the bulky porous sponge-like structure attached to an exfoliated sheet of r-GO. FTIR analysis proved the presence of the functional group in existing composites via oxidation process of graphene oxide and reduction process of reduced graphene oxide while the crystalline form of Fe3O4/r-GO was determined using XRD analysis. The diffraction peaks index to the cubic phase was noticeable indicating the successful crystallization of the composites. The catalytic activity of bare GCE and modified GCE (Fe3O4/r-GO/ GCE) were observed using electrochemical characterization of cyclic voltammetry, differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) with optimum pH of 7, a concentration of 100 μM, and the scan rate of 250 mV s-1. The observed DPV response linearly depends on dopamine concentration in the range of 20-100 μM, with correlation coefficients of 0.9876. The detection limit obtained for the real sample analysis was found to be 0.569 μM while the limit of quantitation was 1.897 μM. The percentage of recovery, repeatability and reproducibility was 113, 82.81 and 7.19 %, respectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A.R. Rosli
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - S.H. Loh
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - F. Yusoff
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Figueroa-Lara JJ, Murcia-González JM, García-Martínez R, Romero-Romo M, Torres Rodríguez M, Mugica-Álvarez V. Effect of platform subway depth on the presence of Airborne PM 2.5, metals, and toxic organic species. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2019; 377:427-436. [PMID: 31176078 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2019.05.091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Revised: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
PM2.5 that have been related to public health risks, were collected during two seasons with High-Vol samplers in platforms of a Mexican subway station, which interconnects through transfers three lines having different depths. The objective was to study the influence of depth on the PM2.5 concentrations and their species. PM2.5 concentrations in cold-dry and warm-dry seasons presented statistical differences, being in average 57 and 66 μgm-3 respectively, in the shallower line 9; 90 μgm-3 and 111 μgm-3 in line 1; and 104 and 122 μgm-3in the deepest line 7. During the cold-dry season and warm-dry season PM2.5concentrations in the subway environment were respectively up to 3.5 times and up to 5 times greater than in the ambient air. Like PM2.5, metals analyzed with an OES-ICP presented higher concentrations in deeper lines as well as PAHs quantified with CG-MS, which ranged from 4.5 to 11.7 ngm-3. High PM2.5, metals and organic toxic concentrations found in deeper lines of the subway environment represent a risk for commuters endorsing the need for ventilation systems to reduce them. Zn, Pb, V and Ni in subway particles presented the highest solubility in artificial lysosomal fluid suggesting high bioavailability in the lung fluids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J J Figueroa-Lara
- Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Azcapotzalco, San Pablo 180, C.P. 02200, Mexico
| | - J M Murcia-González
- Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Azcapotzalco, San Pablo 180, C.P. 02200, Mexico
| | | | - M Romero-Romo
- Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Azcapotzalco, San Pablo 180, C.P. 02200, Mexico
| | - M Torres Rodríguez
- Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Azcapotzalco, San Pablo 180, C.P. 02200, Mexico
| | - V Mugica-Álvarez
- Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Azcapotzalco, San Pablo 180, C.P. 02200, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Gonet T, Maher BA. Airborne, Vehicle-Derived Fe-Bearing Nanoparticles in the Urban Environment: A Review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2019; 53:9970-9991. [PMID: 31381310 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.9b01505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Airborne particulate matter poses a serious threat to human health. Exposure to nanosized (<0.1 μm), vehicle-derived particulates may be hazardous due to their bioreactivity, their ability to penetrate every organ, including the brain, and their abundance in the urban atmosphere. Fe-bearing nanoparticles (<0.1 μm) in urban environments may be especially important because of their pathogenicity and possible association with neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. This review examines current knowledge regarding the sources of vehicle-derived Fe-bearing nanoparticles, their chemical and mineralogical compositions, grain size distribution and potential hazard to human health. We focus on data reported for the following sources of Fe-bearing nanoparticles: exhaust emissions (both diesel and gasoline), brake wear, tire and road surface wear, resuspension of roadside dust, underground, train and tram emissions, and aircraft and shipping emissions. We identify limitations and gaps in existing knowledge as well as future challenges and perspectives for studies of airborne Fe-bearing nanoparticles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Gonet
- Centre for Environmental Magnetism & Palaeomagnetism, Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University , Lancaster LA1 4YQ , United Kingdom
| | - Barbara A Maher
- Centre for Environmental Magnetism & Palaeomagnetism, Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University , Lancaster LA1 4YQ , United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Current Status, Challenges and Resilient Response to Air Pollution in Urban Subway. ATMOSPHERE 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/atmos10080472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Subway air pollution mainly refers to inhalable particulate matter (PM) pollution, organic pollution, and microbial pollution. Based on the investigation and calculation of the existing researches, this paper summarizes the sources of air pollutants, chemical compositions, and driving factors of PM variations in subway. It evaluates the toxicity and health risks of pollutants. In this paper, the problems and challenges during the deployment of air pollution governance are discussed. Results show that the global PM compliance rate of subway is about 30%. Subway air pollution is endogenous, which means that pollutants mainly come from mechanical wear and building materials erosions. Particles are mainly metal particles, black carbon, and floating dust. The health risks of some chemical elements in the subway have reached critical levels. The variations of PM concentrations show spatial-temporal characteristics, which are mainly controlled by train age, brakes types, and environmental control systems. The authors then analyze the dynamics of interactions among government, companies and public during the air pollution governance by adding the following questions: (a) who pays the bill; (b) how to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of policies; (c) how the public moves from risk perception to actions; (d) how to develop clean air technology better so as to ultimately incentivize stakeholders and to facilitate the implementation of subway clean air programme in a resilient mode.
Collapse
|
17
|
Son YS, Oh YH, Choi IY, Dinh TV, Chung SG, Lee JH, Park D, Kim JC. Development of a magnetic hybrid filter to reduce PM10 in a subway platform. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2019; 368:197-203. [PMID: 30677651 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2019.01.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2018] [Revised: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the reduction of particulate matter (PM) in a subway platform using self-developed magnetic hybrid filters (magnet-magnet (MM) and magnet-cascade (MC) filter). The magnetic hybrid filter systems were installed and operated in Jegi-dong subway station (J station) platform. The removal efficiency of PM10 (particular matter with aerodynamic diameter less than 10 μm) was evaluated according to various influencing factors such as the combination of filters, linear velocity, and operating conditions of trains. As a result, the average removal efficiency of the MC filter (40.5%) was higher than that of the MM one (27.0%). The maximum PM10 removal efficiencies by MM (34.1%) and MC (47.2%) filters were observed at 20 (linear velocity: 2.41 m/s) and 30 jog (8 m/s) dials, respectively. We additionally found that the removal efficiency of PM10 using MM and MC filters suddenly decreased when the concentration of background PM10 in the platform increased. Based on the results of this study, hybrid technology using two or more capture principles can remove PM more efficiently than technology using a single such principle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Youn-Suk Son
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Pukyong National University, 45 Yongso-ro, Nam-gu, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Hwan Oh
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Konkuk University, 120 Neungdong-ro, Gwangjin-Gu, Seoul, 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - In-Young Choi
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Konkuk University, 120 Neungdong-ro, Gwangjin-Gu, Seoul, 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Trieu-Vuong Dinh
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Konkuk University, 120 Neungdong-ro, Gwangjin-Gu, Seoul, 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Gwi Chung
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Konkuk University, 120 Neungdong-ro, Gwangjin-Gu, Seoul, 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Jai-Hyo Lee
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Konkuk University, 120 Neungdong-ro, Gwangjin-Gu, Seoul, 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Duckshin Park
- Transportation Environmental Research Team and Subway Indoor Air Quality Corps, Korea Railroad Research Institute, 176 Cheoldobakmulkwan-ro, Uiwang-si, Gyeonggi-do, 16105, Republic of Korea
| | - Jo-Chun Kim
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Konkuk University, 120 Neungdong-ro, Gwangjin-Gu, Seoul, 05029, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Loxham M, Nieuwenhuijsen MJ. Health effects of particulate matter air pollution in underground railway systems - a critical review of the evidence. Part Fibre Toxicol 2019; 16:12. [PMID: 30841934 PMCID: PMC6404319 DOI: 10.1186/s12989-019-0296-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2018] [Accepted: 02/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to ambient airborne particulate matter is a major risk factor for mortality and morbidity, associated with asthma, lung cancer, heart disease, myocardial infarction, and stroke, and more recently type 2 diabetes, dementia and loss of cognitive function. Less is understood about differential effects of particulate matter from different sources. Underground railways are used by millions of people on a daily basis in many cities. Poor air exchange with the outside environment means that underground railways often have an unusually high concentration of airborne particulate matter, while a high degree of railway-associated mechanical activity produces particulate matter which is physicochemically highly distinct from ambient particulate matter. The implications of this for the health of exposed commuters and employees is unclear. MAIN BODY A literature search found 27 publications directly assessing the potential health effects of underground particulate matter, including in vivo exposure studies, in vitro toxicology studies, and studies of particulate matter which might be similar to that found in underground railways. The methodology, findings, and conclusions of these studies were reviewed in depth, along with further publications directly relevant to the initial search results. In vitro studies suggest that underground particulate matter may be more toxic than exposure to ambient/urban particulate matter, especially in terms of endpoints related to reactive oxygen species generation and oxidative stress. This appears to be predominantly a result of the metal-rich nature of underground particulate matter, which is suggestive of increased health risks. However, while there are measureable effects on a variety of endpoints following exposure in vivo, there is a lack of evidence for these effects being clinically significant as may be implied by the in vitro evidence. CONCLUSION There is little direct evidence that underground railway particulate matter exposure is more harmful than ambient particulate matter exposure. This may be due to disparities between in vivo exposures and in vitro models, and differences in exposure doses, as well as statistical under powering of in vivo studies of chronic exposure. Future research should focus on outcomes of chronic in vivo exposure, as well as further work to understand mechanisms and potential biomarkers of exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Loxham
- Academic Unit of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Mailpoint 888, Level F, University Hospital Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK. .,NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Southampton, Southampton, UK. .,Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK. .,Southampton Marine and Maritime Institute, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.
| | - Mark J Nieuwenhuijsen
- ISGlobal, Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology (CREAL), Barcelona, Spain.,Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain.,CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Park JH, Son YS, Kim KH. A review of traditional and advanced technologies for the removal of particulate matter in subway systems. INDOOR AIR 2019; 29:177-191. [PMID: 30586211 DOI: 10.1111/ina.12532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2018] [Revised: 12/07/2018] [Accepted: 12/08/2018] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
The pollution status of particulate matter (PM) in a subway system and technological trends in their reduction were discussed in this study. The levels of PM2.5 and PM10 are generally found to be higher in the underground platforms and tunnels than those in the outdoor air. It has also been reported that the composition of fine dust in the subway consists of various substances including heavy metals (like Fe), carbonaceous matter, and solvent extractable organic matter (SEOM). It was confirmed that subway dust was created mainly by wearing on wheels, rails, and brakes. In addition, the concentration of PM in such environment was influenced not only by internal factors (eg, operating conditions of trains and ventilation systems, number of passengers, and the structure of subway stations) but also by outside factors (eg, ambient air concentration). Up to now, various techniques (ventilation fans, platform screen doors (PSDs), magnetic filters, small jet fans, artificial intelligent ventilation systems, hybrid filters, etc) have been studied to reduce PM in underground subway systems. In this study, we reviewed the air quality of major subway stations with the focus on PM and relevant technologies for its reduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Hyeong Park
- Jeonju Center, FITI Testing & Research Institute, Jeonju-si, Korea
| | - Youn-Suk Son
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Pukyong National University, Busan, Korea
| | - Ki-Hyun Kim
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Woo SH, Kim JB, Bae GN, Hwang MS, Tahk GH, Yoon HH, Kwon SB, Park D, Yook SJ. Size-dependent characteristics of diurnal particle concentration variation in an underground subway tunnel. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2018; 190:740. [PMID: 30465289 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-018-7110-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/07/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Understanding characteristics of diurnal particle concentration variation in an underground subway tunnel is important to reduce subway passengers' exposure to high levels of toxic particle pollution. In this study, real-time particle monitoring for eight consecutive days was done at a shelter located in the middle of a one-way underground subway tunnel in Seoul, Republic of Korea, during the summer of 2015. Particle mass concentration was measured using a dust monitor and particle number concentration using an optical particle counter. From the diurnal variations in PM10, PM2.5, and PM1, concentrations of particles larger than 0.54 μm optical particle diameter were affected by train frequency whereas those of particles smaller than 0.54 μm optical particle diameter were not changed by train frequency. Number concentration of particles smaller than 1.15 μm optical particle diameter was dependent on outdoor ambient air particle concentration level, whereas that of particles larger than 1.15 μm optical particle diameter was independent of outdoor ambient air due to low ventilation system transmission efficiency of micrometer-sized particles. In addition, an equation was suggested to predict the diurnal particle concentration in an underground tunnel by considering emission, ventilation, and deposition effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sang-Hee Woo
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea
- Center for Environment, Health and Welfare Research, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Bum Kim
- Center for Environment, Health and Welfare Research, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Gwi-Nam Bae
- Center for Particulate Air Pollution and Health, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea.
| | - Moon Se Hwang
- Technology Research Center, Seoul Metropolitan Rapid Transit Corporation, Seoul, 04806, Republic of Korea
| | - Gil Hun Tahk
- Technology Research Center, Seoul Metropolitan Rapid Transit Corporation, Seoul, 04806, Republic of Korea
| | - Hwa Hyun Yoon
- Technology Research Center, Seoul Metropolitan Rapid Transit Corporation, Seoul, 04806, Republic of Korea
| | - Soon-Bark Kwon
- Transportation Environmental Research Team, Korea Railroad Research Institute, Uiwang, 16105, Republic of Korea
| | - Duckshin Park
- Transportation Environmental Research Team, Korea Railroad Research Institute, Uiwang, 16105, Republic of Korea
| | - Se-Jin Yook
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Lee Y, Lee YC, Kim T, Choi JS, Park D. Sources and Characteristics of Particulate Matter in Subway Tunnels in Seoul, Korea. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:E2534. [PMID: 30424555 PMCID: PMC6267438 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15112534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2018] [Revised: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 10/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Hazards related to particulate matter (PM) in subway systems necessitate improvement of the air quality. As a first step toward establishing a management strategy, we assessed the physicochemical characteristics of PM in a subway system in Seoul, South Korea. The mean mass of PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations (n = 13) were 213.7 ± 50.4 and 78.4 ± 8.8 µg/m³, with 86.0% and 85.9% of mass concentration. Chemical analysis using a thermal⁻optical elemental/organic carbon (EC⁻OC) analyzer, ion chromatography (IC), and inductively coupled plasma (ICP) spectroscopy indicated that the chemical components in the subway tunnel comprised 86.0% and 85.9% mass concentration of PM10 and PM2.5. Fe was the most abundant element in subway tunnels, accounting for higher proportions of PM, and was detected in PM with diameters >94 nm. Fe was present mostly as iron oxides, which were emitted from the wheel⁻rail⁻brake and pantograph⁻catenary wire interfaces. Copper particles were 96⁻150 nm in diameter and were likely emitted via catenary wire arc discharges. Furthermore, X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD) showed that the PM in subway tunnels was composed of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃), quartz (SiO₂), and iron oxides (hematite (α-Fe₂O₃) and maghemite-C (γ-Fe₂O₃)). Transmission electron microscopy images revealed that the PM in subway tunnels existed as agglomerates of iron oxide particle clusters a few nanometers in diameter, which were presumably generated at the aforementioned interfaces and subsequently attached onto other PM, enabling the growth of aggregates. Our results can help inform the management of PM sources from subway operation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yongil Lee
- Korea Railroad Research Institute (KRRI), 176 Cheoldobakmulkwan-ro, Uiwang-si 16105, Korea.
- Mechanical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066 Seobu-ro, Suwon-si 16419, Korea.
| | - Young-Chul Lee
- Department of BioNano Technology, Gachon University, 1342 seongnamdae-ro, Seongnam-si 13120, Korea.
| | - Taesung Kim
- Mechanical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066 Seobu-ro, Suwon-si 16419, Korea.
| | - Jin Seok Choi
- Analysis Center for Research Advancement, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon-si 34141, Korea.
| | - Duckshin Park
- Korea Railroad Research Institute (KRRI), 176 Cheoldobakmulkwan-ro, Uiwang-si 16105, Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Minguillón MC, Reche C, Martins V, Amato F, de Miguel E, Capdevila M, Centelles S, Querol X, Moreno T. Aerosol sources in subway environments. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2018; 167:314-328. [PMID: 30092454 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2018.07.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2018] [Revised: 07/03/2018] [Accepted: 07/26/2018] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Millions of people use rail subway public transport around the world, despite the relatively high particulate matter (PM) concentrations in these underground environments, requiring the identification and quantification of the aerosol source contributions to improve the air quality. An extensive aerosol monitoring campaign was carried out in eleven subway stations in the Barcelona metro system, belonging to seven subway lines. PM2.5 samples were collected during the metro operating hours and chemically analysed to determine major and trace elements, inorganic ions, and total carbon. The chemical compositions of subway components such as brake pads, rail tracks and pantographs were also determined. The mean PM2.5 concentrations varied widely among stations, ranging from 26 µg m-3 to 86 µg m-3. Subway PM2.5 was mainly constituted by Fe2O3 (30-66%), followed by carbonaceous matter (18-37%) for the old stations, while for new stations equipped with Platform Screen Doors (PSD) these percentages go down to 21-44% and 15-30%, respectively. Both the absolute concentrations and the relative abundance of key species differed for each subway station, although with common patterns within a given subway line. This is a result of the different emission chemical profiles in different subway lines (using diverse types of brakes and/or pantographs). The co-emission of different sources poses a problem for their separation by receptor models. Nevertheless, receptor modelling (Positive Matrix Factorization) was applied resulting in ten sources, five of them subway-specific: RailWheel, RailWheel+Brake, Brake_A, Brake_B, Pb. The sum of their contributions accounted for 43-91% of bulk PM2.5 for the old stations and 21-52% for the stations with PSD. The decrease of the activity during the weekends resulted in a decrease (up to 56%) in the subway-specific sources contribution to the -already lower- bulk PM2.5 concentrations compared to weekdays. The health-related elements are mainly apportioned (> 60%) by subway sources.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M C Minguillón
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA), CSIC, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - C Reche
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA), CSIC, Barcelona, Spain
| | - V Martins
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA), CSIC, Barcelona, Spain
| | - F Amato
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA), CSIC, Barcelona, Spain
| | - E de Miguel
- Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona, TMB Santa Eulàlia, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
| | - M Capdevila
- Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona, TMB Santa Eulàlia, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
| | - S Centelles
- Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona, TMB Santa Eulàlia, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
| | - X Querol
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA), CSIC, Barcelona, Spain
| | - T Moreno
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA), CSIC, Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Kim J, Chan Hong S, Bae GN, Jung JH. Electrospun Magnetic Nanoparticle-Decorated Nanofiber Filter and Its Applications to High-Efficiency Air Filtration. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2017; 51:11967-11975. [PMID: 28945076 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.7b02884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Filtration technology has been widely studied due to concerns about exposure to airborne dust, including metal oxide nanoparticles, which cause serious health problems. The aim of these studies has been to develop mechanisms for the continuous and efficient removal of metal oxide dusts. In this study, we introduce a novel air filtration system based on the magnetic attraction force. The filtration system is composed of a magnetic nanoparticle (MNP)-decorated nanofiber (MNP-NF) filter. Using a simple electrospinning system, we fabricated continuous and smooth electrospun nanofibers with evenly distributed Fe3O4 MNPs. Our electrospun MNP-NF filter exhibited high particle collection efficiency (∼97% at 300 nm particle size) compared to the control filter (w/o MNPs, ∼ 68%), with a ∼ 64% lower pressure drop (∼17 Pa) than the control filter (∼27 Pa). Finally, the filter quality factors of the MNP-NF filter were 4.7 and 11.9 times larger than those of the control filter and the conventional high-efficiency particulate air filters (>99% and ∼269 Pa), respectively. Furthermore, we successfully performed a field test of our MNP-NF filter using dust from a subway station tunnel. This work suggests that our novel MNP-NF filter can be used to facilitate effective protection against hazardous metal oxide dust in real environments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juyoung Kim
- Center for Environment, Health, and Welfare Research, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) , Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Seoul , Seoul 02504, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Chan Hong
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Seoul National University , Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Gwi Nam Bae
- Center for Environment, Health, and Welfare Research, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) , Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Hee Jung
- Center for Environment, Health, and Welfare Research, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) , Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Division of Energy & Environment Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology , Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Green School, Korea University , Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Xu B, Hao J. Air quality inside subway metro indoor environment worldwide: A review. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2017; 107:33-46. [PMID: 28651166 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2017.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2017] [Revised: 05/27/2017] [Accepted: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
The air quality in the subway metro indoor microenvironment has been of particular public concern. With specific reference to the growing demand of green transportation and sustainable development, subway metro systems have been rapidly developed worldwide in last decades. The number of metro commuters has continuously increased over recent years in metropolitan cities. In some cities, metro system has become the primary public transportation mode. Although commuters typically spend only 30-40min in metros, the air pollutants emitted from various interior components of metro system as well as air pollutants carried by ventilation supply air are significant sources of harmful air pollutants that could lead to unhealthy human exposure. Commuters' exposure to various air pollutants in metro carriages may cause perceivable health risk as reported by many environmental health studies. This review summarizes significant findings in the literature on air quality inside metro indoor environment, including pollutant concentration levels, chemical species, related sources and health risk assessment. More than 160 relevant studies performed across over 20 countries were carefully reviewed. These comprised more than 2000 individual measurement trips. Particulate matters, aromatic hydrocarbons, carbonyls and airborne bacteria have been identified as the primary air pollutants inside metro system. On this basis, future work could focus on investigating the chronic health risks of exposure to various air pollutants other than PM, and/or further developing advanced air purification unit to improve metro in-station air quality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bin Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China; Department of Environmental Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China.
| | - Jinliang Hao
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China; Department of Environmental Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Moreno T, Reche C, Minguillón MC, Capdevila M, de Miguel E, Querol X. The effect of ventilation protocols on airborne particulate matter in subway systems. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2017; 584-585:1317-1323. [PMID: 28189308 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2016] [Revised: 01/26/2017] [Accepted: 02/01/2017] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
As part of the European-funded IMPROVE LIFE project work programme experiments were performed in the Barcelona Metro system with the objective of better understanding the relationship between ventilation and air quality. The results demonstrate that tunnel ventilation plays an extremely important role in maintaining cleaner air and is capable of reducing both inhalable particulate matter (PM) mass and particle number concentration (>0.3μm) on platforms by over 50%, even in the presence of full-length platform screen doors. Another key influence on platform air quality is the chosen combination of fan power and forced air flow direction (impulsion of outdoor ambient air or extraction of subway indoor air): cleaner platform air was achieved using platform impulsion at higher power settings designed to ameliorate high summer temperatures underground. Reversing platform air flow from impulsion to extraction produced an immediate deterioration in PM air quality, most notably if the higher power setting was maintained, when an especially marked increase in numbers of very fine (submicron) particles was observed and attributed to tunnel air being drawn into the platform. At night, in the absence of trains and platform ventilation, platform air quality improves when tunnel fans are working at reduced power, whatever the flow direction (impulsion/extraction). Inside the air conditioned Barcelona Metro trains (where underground commuters spend most of their time) air quality is markedly better than on the platform, and unchanged A/C filters were observed capable of maintaining a similar reduction in inside train PM for at least three months.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Moreno
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDÆA-CSIC), C/Jordi Girona 18-24, 08034 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Cristina Reche
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDÆA-CSIC), C/Jordi Girona 18-24, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Cruz Minguillón
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDÆA-CSIC), C/Jordi Girona 18-24, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Capdevila
- Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona (TMB), Santa Eulalia, Av. del Metro s/n, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat 08902, Spain
| | - Eladio de Miguel
- Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona (TMB), Santa Eulalia, Av. del Metro s/n, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat 08902, Spain
| | - Xavier Querol
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDÆA-CSIC), C/Jordi Girona 18-24, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Rivas I, Kumar P, Hagen-Zanker A. Exposure to air pollutants during commuting in London: Are there inequalities among different socio-economic groups? ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2017; 101:143-157. [PMID: 28188054 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2017.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2016] [Revised: 01/04/2017] [Accepted: 01/27/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
People with low income often experience higher exposures to air pollutants. We compared the exposure to particulate matter (PM1, PM2.5 and PM10), Black Carbon (BC) and ultrafine particles (PNCs; 0.02-1μm) for typical commutes by car, bus and underground from 4 London areas with different levels of income deprivation (G1 to G4, from most to least deprived). The highest BC and PM concentrations were found in G1 while the highest PNC in G3. Lowest concentrations for all pollutants were observed in G2. We found no systematic relationship between income deprivation and pollutant concentrations, suggesting that differences between transport modes are a stronger influence. The underground showed the highest PM concentrations, followed by buses and a much lower concentrations in cars. BC concentrations in the underground were overestimated due to Fe interference. BC concentrations were also higher in buses than cars because of a lower infiltration of outside pollutants into the car cabin. PNCs were highest in buses, closely followed by cars, but lowest in underground due to the absence of combustion sources. Concentration in the road modes (car and bus) were governed by the traffic conditions (such as traffic flow interruptions) at the specific road section. Exposures were reduced in trains with non-openable windows compared to those with openable windows. People from less income-deprived areas have a predominant use of car, receiving the lowest doses (RDD<1μgh-1) during commute but generating the largest emissions per commuter. Conversely, commuters from high income-deprived areas have a major reliance on the bus, receiving higher exposures (RDD between 1.52 and 3.49μgh-1) while generating less emission per person. These findings suggest an aspect of environmental injustice and a need to incorporate the socioeconomic dimension in life-course exposure assessments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ioar Rivas
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, United Kingdom
| | - Prashant Kumar
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, United Kingdom; Environmental Flow (EnFlo) Research Centre, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, United Kingdom.
| | - Alex Hagen-Zanker
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Kwon SB, Namgung HG, Jeong W, Park D, Eom JK. Transient variation of aerosol size distribution in an underground subway station. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2016; 188:362. [PMID: 27220501 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-016-5373-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2016] [Accepted: 05/16/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
As the number of people using rapid transit systems (subways) continues to rise in major cities worldwide, increasing attention has been given to the indoor air quality of underground stations. This study intended to observe the change of PM distribution by size in an underground station with PSDs installed located near the main road in downtown Seoul, as well as to examine causes for the changes. The results indicate that the PM suspended in the tunnel flowed into the platform area even in a subway station where the effect of train-induced wind is blocked by installed PSDs, as this flow occurred when the PSDs were opened. The results also indicate that coarse mode particles generated by mechanical friction in the tunnel, such as that between wheels and rail, also flowed into the platform area. The PM either settled or was re-suspended according to size and whether the ventilation in the platform area was in operation or if the platform floor had been washed. The ventilation system was more effective in removing PM of smaller sizes (fine particles) while the wash-out performed after train operations had stopped reduced the suspension of coarse mode particles the next morning. Despite installation of the completely sealed PSDs, inflow of coarse mode particles from the tunnel seems unavoidable, indicating the need for measures to decrease the PM generated there to lower subway user exposure since those particles cannot be reduced by mechanical ventilation alone. This research implicate that coarse PM containing heavy metals (generated from tunnel side) proliferated especially during rush hours, during which it is very important to control those PM in order to reduce subway user exposure to this hazardous PM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Soon-Bark Kwon
- Transportation Environmental Research Team, Korea Railroad Research Institute, 176 Cheoldobagmulgwan-ro, Uiwang-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hyeong-Gyu Namgung
- Transportation Environmental Research Team, Korea Railroad Research Institute, 176 Cheoldobagmulgwan-ro, Uiwang-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Wootae Jeong
- Transportation Environmental Research Team, Korea Railroad Research Institute, 176 Cheoldobagmulgwan-ro, Uiwang-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Duckshin Park
- Transportation Environmental Research Team, Korea Railroad Research Institute, 176 Cheoldobagmulgwan-ro, Uiwang-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Ki Eom
- Transport System Research Team, Korea Railroad Research Institute, 176 Cheoldobagmulgwan-ro, Uiwang-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Namgung HG, Kim JB, Woo SH, Park S, Kim M, Kim MS, Bae GN, Park D, Kwon SB. Generation of Nanoparticles from Friction between Railway Brake Disks and Pads. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2016; 50:3453-3461. [PMID: 26967707 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.5b06252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we measured the size distribution of particles ranging in size from 5.6 to 560 nm that were emitted between brake disks and pads under various braking conditions to observe and analyze changes to the resulting particle size distribution over braking time. A peak of 178-275 nm (200 nm peak) was observed in all braking conditions. However, the generation of spherical particles of a 10 nm range was observed only when the disk speed and brake force were above certain levels and intensified only when speed and brake force further increased. The total number concentration of ultrafine particles (no larger than 0.1 μm; PM0.1) generated was found to correlate with disk speed and brake force. Thus, the generation of nanoparticles resulting from disk speed and brake force was attributable primarily to increases in the contact surface temperature. The critical temperature for the generation of nanoparticles of a 10 nm range was found to be about 70 °C, which is the average temperature between the surface and the inside of the disk. If the speed or brake force was higher, that is, the temperature of the contact surface reached a certain level, evaporation and condensation took place. Vapor then left the friction surface, met with the air, and quickly cooled to form nanoparticles through nucleation. When the newly generated particles became highly concentrated, they grew through coagulation to form agglomerates or the vapor condensed directly onto the surface of existing particles of about 200 nm (formed by mechanical friction).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jong-Bum Kim
- Center for Environment, Health and Welfare Research, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) , Seoul 02792, Korea
- Green School (Graduate School of Energy, Environment Policy and Technology), Korea University , Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Sang-Hee Woo
- Center for Environment, Health and Welfare Research, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) , Seoul 02792, Korea
| | - Sechan Park
- Railway System Engineering, University of Science and Technology (UST) , Uiwang-si 16105, Korea
| | - Minhae Kim
- Railway System Engineering, University of Science and Technology (UST) , Uiwang-si 16105, Korea
| | | | - Gwi-Nam Bae
- Center for Environment, Health and Welfare Research, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) , Seoul 02792, Korea
| | | | - Soon-Bark Kwon
- Railway System Engineering, University of Science and Technology (UST) , Uiwang-si 16105, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Martins V, Moreno T, Minguillón MC, van Drooge BL, Reche C, Amato F, de Miguel E, Capdevila M, Centelles S, Querol X. Origin of inorganic and organic components of PM2.5 in subway stations of Barcelona, Spain. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2016; 208:125-136. [PMID: 26189044 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2015.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2015] [Revised: 06/30/2015] [Accepted: 07/01/2015] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
The present work assesses indoor air quality in stations of the Barcelona subway system. PM2.5 concentrations on the platforms of 4 subway stations were measured during two different seasons and the chemical composition was determined. A Positive Matrix Factorization analysis was performed to identify and quantify the contributions of major PM2.5 sources in the subway stations. Mean PM2.5 concentrations varied according to the stations design and seasonal periods. PM2.5 was composed of haematite, carbonaceous aerosol, crustal matter, secondary inorganic compounds, trace elements, insoluble sulphate and halite. Organic compounds such as PAHs, nicotine, levoglucosan and aromatic musk compounds were also identified. Subway PM2.5 source comprised emissions from rails, wheels, catenaries, brake pads and pantographs. The subway source showed different chemical profiles for each station, but was always dominated by Fe. Control actions on the source are important for the achievement of better air quality in the subway environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vânia Martins
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA), CSIC, C/Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain; Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Barcelona, Av. Diagonal 647, 08028 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Teresa Moreno
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA), CSIC, C/Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Cruz Minguillón
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA), CSIC, C/Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Barend L van Drooge
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA), CSIC, C/Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Reche
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA), CSIC, C/Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Fulvio Amato
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA), CSIC, C/Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eladio de Miguel
- Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona, TMB Santa Eulàlia, Av. Del Metro s/n L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08902, Spain
| | - Marta Capdevila
- Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona, TMB Santa Eulàlia, Av. Del Metro s/n L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08902, Spain
| | - Sonia Centelles
- Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona, TMB Santa Eulàlia, Av. Del Metro s/n L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08902, Spain
| | - Xavier Querol
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA), CSIC, C/Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Huang S, Zhang X, Tafu M, Toshima T, Jo Y. Study on subway particle capture by ferromagnetic mesh filter in nonuniform magnetic field. Sep Purif Technol 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seppur.2015.10.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
31
|
Kwon SB, Jeong W, Park D, Kim KT, Cho KH. A multivariate study for characterizing particulate matter (PM(10), PM(2.5), and PM(1)) in Seoul metropolitan subway stations, Korea. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2015; 297:295-303. [PMID: 26010475 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2015.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2015] [Revised: 05/04/2015] [Accepted: 05/10/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Given that around eight million commuters use the Seoul Metropolitan Subway (SMS) each day, the indoor air quality (IAQ) of its stations has attracted much public attention. We have monitored the concentration of particulate matters (PMx) (i.e., PM10, PM2.5, and PM1) in six major transfer stations per minute for three weeks during the summer, autumn, and winter in 2014 and 2015. The data were analyzed to investigate the relationship between PMx concentration and multivariate environmental factors using statistical methods. The average PM concentration observed was approximately two or three times higher than outdoor PM10 concentration, showing similar temporal patterns at concourses and platforms. This implies that outdoor PM10 is the most significant factor in controlling indoor PM concentration. In addition, the station depth and number of trains passing through stations were found to be additional influences on PMx. Principal component analysis (PCA) and self-organizing map (SOM) were employed, through which we found that the number of trains influences PM concentration in the vicinity of platforms only, and PMx hotspots were determined. This study identifies the external and internal factors affecting PMx characteristics in six SMS stations, which can assist in the development of effective IAQ management plans to improve public health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Soon-Bark Kwon
- Transportation Environmental Research Team, Korea Railroad Research Institute, Uiwang-si 437-757, Republic of Korea
| | - Wootae Jeong
- Transportation Environmental Research Team, Korea Railroad Research Institute, Uiwang-si 437-757, Republic of Korea
| | - Duckshin Park
- Transportation Environmental Research Team, Korea Railroad Research Institute, Uiwang-si 437-757, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki-Tae Kim
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, Seoul 143-715, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Hwa Cho
- School of Urban and Environmental Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, Ulsan 689-798, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Spagnolo AM, Ottria G, Perdelli F, Cristina ML. Chemical characterisation of the coarse and fine particulate matter in the environment of an underground railway system: cytotoxic effects and oxidative stress-a preliminary study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2015; 12:4031-46. [PMID: 25872016 PMCID: PMC4410231 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph120404031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2015] [Revised: 03/23/2015] [Accepted: 04/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Background: Exposure to the particulate matter produced in underground railway systems is arousing increasing scientific interest because of its health effects. The aim of our study was to evaluate the airborne concentrations of PM10 and three sub-fractions of PM2.5 in an underground railway system environment in proximity to platforms and in underground commercial areas within the system, and to compare these with the outdoor airborne concentrations. We also evaluated the metal components, the cytotoxic properties of the various fractions of particulate matter (PM) and their capacity to induce oxidative stress. Method: We collected the coarse fraction (5–10 µm) and the fine fractions (1–2.5 µm; 0.5–1 µm; 0.25–0.5 µm). Chemical characterisation was determined by means of spectrometry. Cytotoxicity and oxidative stress were evaluated by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) assessment. Results: The concentrations of both PM10 and PM2.5 proved to be similar at the three sampling sites. Iron and other transition metals displayed a greater concentration at the subway platform than at the other two sites. The 2.5–10 µm and 1–2.5 µm fractions of PM from all three sampling sites determined a greater increase in ROS; the intensity of oxidative stress progressively declined as particle diameter diminished. Moreover, ROS concentrations were correlated with the concentrations of some transition metals, namely Mn, Cr, Ti, Fe, Cu, Zn, Ni and Mo. All particulate matter fractions displayed lower or similar ROS values between platform level and the outdoor air. Conclusions: The present study revealed that the underground railway environment at platform level, although containing higher concentrations of some particularly reactive metallic species, did not display higher cytotoxicity and oxidative stress levels than the outdoor air.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maria Spagnolo
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Italy Via Pastore, 1-16132 Genoa, Italy.
| | - Gianluca Ottria
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Italy Via Pastore, 1-16132 Genoa, Italy.
| | - Fernanda Perdelli
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Italy Via Pastore, 1-16132 Genoa, Italy.
| | - Maria Luisa Cristina
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Italy Via Pastore, 1-16132 Genoa, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Moreno T, Martins V, Querol X, Jones T, BéruBé K, Minguillón MC, Amato F, Capdevila M, de Miguel E, Centelles S, Gibbons W. A new look at inhalable metalliferous airborne particles on rail subway platforms. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2015; 505:367-375. [PMID: 25461038 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2014.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2014] [Revised: 10/02/2014] [Accepted: 10/04/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Most particles breathed on rail subway platforms are highly ferruginous (FePM) and extremely small (nanometric to a few microns in size). High magnification observations of particle texture and chemistry on airborne PM₁₀ samples collected from the Barcelona Metro, combined with published experimental work on particle generation by frictional sliding, allow us to propose a general model to explain the origin of most subway FePM. Particle generation occurs by mechanical wear at the brake-wheel and wheel-rail interfaces, where magnetic metallic flakes and splinters are released and undergo progressive atmospheric oxidation from metallic iron to magnetite and maghemite. Flakes of magnetite typically comprise mottled mosaics of octahedral nanocrystals (10-20 nm) that become pseudomorphed by maghemite. Continued oxidation results in extensive alteration of the magnetic nanostructure to more rounded aggregates of non-magnetic hematite nanocrystals, with magnetic precursors (including iron metal) still preserved in some particle cores. Particles derived from steel wheel and rails contain a characteristic trace element chemistry, typically with Mn/Fe=0.01. Flakes released from brakes are chemically very distinctive, depending on the pad composition, being always carbonaceous, commonly barium-rich, and texturally inhomogeneous, with trace elements present in nanominerals incorporated within the crystalline structure. In the studied subway lines of Barcelona at least there appears to be only a minimal aerosol contribution from high temperature processes such as sparking. To date there is no strong evidence that these chemically and texturally complex inhalable metallic materials are any more or less toxic than street-level urban particles, and as with outdoor air, the priority in subway air quality should be to reduce high mass concentrations of aerosol present in some stations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Moreno
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDÆA-CSIC), C/Jordi Girona 18-24, 08034 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Vânia Martins
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDÆA-CSIC), C/Jordi Girona 18-24, 08034 Barcelona, Spain; Dept. of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Barcelona, Av. Diagonal 647, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Xavier Querol
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDÆA-CSIC), C/Jordi Girona 18-24, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Tim Jones
- School of Earth and Ocean Sciences, Cardiff University, CF10 3YE Cardiff, Wales, UK
| | - Kelly BéruBé
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Museum Avenue, Cardiff CF10 3AX, Wales, UK
| | - Maria Cruz Minguillón
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDÆA-CSIC), C/Jordi Girona 18-24, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Fulvio Amato
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDÆA-CSIC), C/Jordi Girona 18-24, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Capdevila
- Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona (TMB), Santa Eulalia 08902, Av. del Metro s/n L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Eladio de Miguel
- Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona (TMB), Santa Eulalia 08902, Av. del Metro s/n L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Sonia Centelles
- Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona (TMB), Santa Eulalia 08902, Av. del Metro s/n L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
| | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Son YS, Jeon JS, Lee HJ, Ryu IC, Kim JC. Installation of platform screen doors and their impact on indoor air quality: Seoul subway trains. JOURNAL OF THE AIR & WASTE MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION (1995) 2014; 64:1054-1061. [PMID: 25283003 DOI: 10.1080/10962247.2014.923350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2013] [Accepted: 04/20/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
In this study, variations of particulate matter (PM) concentrations in subway trains following installation of platform screen doors (PSDs) in the Seoul subway system were investigated. PM samples were collected in the trains on subway lines 1-8 before and after installation of PSDs. It was found that the mean PM10 concentration in the trains after PSDs installation increased significantly by 29.9% compared to that before installation. In particular, the increase of PM10 in line 6 was the highest at 103%. When the relationship between PM10 and PM2.5 was compared, coefficients of determination (r2) before and after PSDs installations were 0.696 and 0.169, respectively. This suggests that air mixing between the platform and the tunnel after PSDs installation was extremely restricted. In addition, the indoor/outdoor PM10 ratio following PSDs installation increased from 1.32 to 2.97 relative to the period with no installed PSDs. Furthermore, this study revealed that PM levels in subway trains increased significantly after all underground PSDs were put in use. Several potential factors were examined that could result in this PM increase, such as train ventilation systems, operational conditions, passenger volume, subway depth, and the length of underground segments. Implications: PM10 concentrations inside the subway trains increased after PSDs installation. This indicates that air quality in trains was very seriously impacted by PSDs. PM10 levels were also influenced by the tunnel depth and length of the underground segments. To prevent the adverse effect on human health by PM10 emitted from the tunnel, an applicable ventilation system to reduce PM10 is required inside trains and tunnels.
Collapse
|
35
|
Son YS, Dinh TV, Chung SG, Lee JH, Kim JC. Removal of particulate matter emitted from a subway tunnel using magnetic filters. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2014; 48:2870-2876. [PMID: 24499385 DOI: 10.1021/es404502x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
We removed particulate matter (PM) emitted from a subway tunnel using magnetic filters. A magnetic filter system was installed on the top of a ventilation opening. Magnetic field density was increased by increasing the number of permanent magnet layers to determine PM removal characteristics. Moreover, the fan's frequency was adjusted from 30 to 60 Hz to investigate the effect of wind velocity on PM removal efficiency. As a result, PM removal efficiency increased as the number of magnetic filters or fan frequency increased. We obtained maximum removal efficiency of PM10 (52%), PM2.5 (46%), and PM1 (38%) at a 60 Hz fan frequency using double magnetic filters. We also found that the stability of the PM removal efficiency by the double filter (RSD, 3.2-5.8%) was higher than that by a single filter (10.9-24.5%) at all fan operating conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Youn-Suk Son
- Exposure, Epidemiology, and Risk Program, Department of Environmental Health, Harvard School of Public Health , 401 Park Drive, Landmark Center West Room 417, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Jung HJ, Eom HJ, Kang HW, Moreau M, Sobanska S, Ro CU. Combined use of quantitative ED-EPMA, Raman microspectrometry, and ATR-FTIR imaging techniques for the analysis of individual particles. Analyst 2014; 139:3949-60. [DOI: 10.1039/c4an00380b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Quantitative ED-EPMA, RMS, and ATR-FTIR imaging techniques were used in combination for the analysis of the same individual particles for the first time.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hae-Jin Jung
- Air Quality Research Division
- National Institute of Environmental Research
- Seo-gu, South Korea
| | - Hyo-Jin Eom
- Department of Chemistry
- Inha University
- Nam Gu, South Korea
| | - Hyun-Woo Kang
- Department of Chemistry
- Inha University
- Nam Gu, South Korea
| | - Myriam Moreau
- Laboratoire de Spectrochimie Infrarouge et Raman
- UMR CNRS 8516
- Université de Lille 1
- 59655 Villeneuve d'Ascq Cedex, France
| | - Sophie Sobanska
- Laboratoire de Spectrochimie Infrarouge et Raman
- UMR CNRS 8516
- Université de Lille 1
- 59655 Villeneuve d'Ascq Cedex, France
| | - Chul-Un Ro
- Department of Chemistry
- Inha University
- Nam Gu, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Eom HJ, Jung HJ, Sobanska S, Chung SG, Son YS, Kim JC, Sunwoo Y, Ro CU. Iron Speciation of Airborne Subway Particles by the Combined Use of Energy Dispersive Electron Probe X-ray Microanalysis and Raman Microspectrometry. Anal Chem 2013; 85:10424-31. [DOI: 10.1021/ac402406n] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Hyo-Jin Eom
- Department
of Chemistry, Inha University, 253, Yonghyun-dong, Nam-gu, Incheon 402-751, Korea
| | - Hae-Jin Jung
- Department
of Chemistry, Inha University, 253, Yonghyun-dong, Nam-gu, Incheon 402-751, Korea
| | - Sophie Sobanska
- Laboratoire de
Spectrochimie Infrarouge et Raman, UMR CNRS 8516, Université de Lille 1, Bât.
C5, 59655 Villeneuve
d’Ascq, Cedex, France
| | - Sang-Gwi Chung
- Department
of Advanced Technology Fusion, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701, Korea
| | - Youn-Suk Son
- Department
of Advanced Technology Fusion, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701, Korea
| | - Jo-Chun Kim
- Department
of Advanced Technology Fusion, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701, Korea
- Department
of Environmental Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701, Korea
| | - Young Sunwoo
- Department
of Advanced Technology Fusion, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701, Korea
| | - Chul-Un Ro
- Department
of Chemistry, Inha University, 253, Yonghyun-dong, Nam-gu, Incheon 402-751, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Loxham M, Cooper MJ, Gerlofs-Nijland ME, Cassee FR, Davies DE, Palmer MR, Teagle DAH. Physicochemical characterization of airborne particulate matter at a mainline underground railway station. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2013; 47:3614-22. [PMID: 23477491 PMCID: PMC3687366 DOI: 10.1021/es304481m] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Underground railway stations are known to have elevated particulate matter (PM) loads compared to ambient air. As these particles are derived from metal-rich sources and transition metals may pose a risk to health by virtue of their ability to catalyze generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), their potential enrichment in underground environments is a source of concern. Compared to coarse (PM10) and fine (PM2.5) particulate fractions of underground railway airborne PM, little is known about the chemistry of the ultrafine (PM0.1) fraction that may contribute significantly to particulate number and surface area concentrations. This study uses inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and ion chromatography to compare the elemental composition of size-fractionated underground PM with woodstove, roadwear generator, and road tunnel PM. Underground PM is notably rich in Fe, accounting for greater than 40% by mass of each fraction, and several other transition metals (Cu, Cr, Mn, and Zn) compared to PM from other sources. Importantly, ultrafine underground PM shows similar metal-rich concentrations as the coarse and fine fractions. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that a component of the coarse fraction of underground PM has a morphology indicative of generation by abrasion, absent for fine and ultrafine particulates, which may be derived from high-temperature processes. Furthermore, underground PM generated ROS in a concentration- and size-dependent manner. This study suggests that the potential health effects of exposure to the ultrafine fraction of underground PM warrant further investigation as a consequence of its greater surface area/volume ratio and high metal content.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Loxham
- The Brooke Laboratory, Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, University Hospital Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, United Kingdom.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Culture-independent analysis of aerosol microbiology in a metropolitan subway system. Appl Environ Microbiol 2013; 79:3485-93. [PMID: 23542619 DOI: 10.1128/aem.00331-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The goal of this study was to determine the composition and diversity of microorganisms associated with bioaerosols in a heavily trafficked metropolitan subway environment. We collected bioaerosols by fluid impingement on several New York City subway platforms and associated sites in three sampling sessions over a 1.5-year period. The types and quantities of aerosolized microorganisms were determined by culture-independent phylogenetic analysis of small-subunit rRNA gene sequences by using both Sanger (universal) and pyrosequencing (bacterial) technologies. Overall, the subway bacterial composition was relatively simple; only 26 taxonomic families made up ~75% of the sequences determined. The microbiology was more or less similar throughout the system and with time and was most similar to outdoor air, consistent with highly efficient air mixing in the system. Identifiable bacterial sequences indicated that the subway aerosol assemblage was composed of a mixture of genera and species characteristic of soil, environmental water, and human skin commensal bacteria. Eukaryotic diversity was mainly fungal, dominated by organisms of types associated with wood rot. Human skin bacterial species (at 99% rRNA sequence identity) included the Staphylococcus spp. Staphylococcus epidermidis (the most abundant and prevalent commensal of the human integument), S. hominis, S. cohnii, S. caprae, and S. haemolyticus, all well-documented human commensal bacteria. We encountered no organisms of public health concern. This study is the most extensive culture-independent survey of subway microbiota so far and puts in place pre-event information required for any bioterrorism surveillance activities or monitoring of the microbiological impact of recent subway flooding events.
Collapse
|