ABSTRACT
Complete and accurate chemical analysis of the atmospheric anthropogenic aerosol (AAA) samples is possible and useful for several basic studies of the atmospheric environment and for toxicological research. The coarse particulate fraction was responsible for the relatively high ambient air anthropogenic aerosol concentrations. Fine aerosol particles are formed from the condensation of hot vapors during the combustion process and from gas-to-particles conversion in the atmosphere. The photoelectric aerosol sensor measures the near-UV photoemission produced by aerosols contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. The composition of AAA varies markedly, depending upon sampler location, the proximity of significant sources of aerosols and their gaseous precursors, and meteorology. Better physical and chemical particulate characterization is needed for a more sensitive evaluation of the health risk of the AAA. This task begins with the use of the new sampling strategy and sampling equipment, as well as with suitable and, from a toxicological standpoint, recommended chemical characterization.
