Application of positive matrix factorization, multi-linear engine and back trajectory techniques to the quantification of coal-fired power station pollution in metropolitan Sydney

► IBA methods have characterized an 11 year fine particle pollution dataset. ► PMF, ME methods combined with back trajectory data identified coal-fired fingerprints. ► Quantitative fingerprints and their contributions have been determined. ► Coal-fired power stations contribute between 30 and 50% to the total fine sulfate mass.