Development of particulate matter speciation profiles for major sources in six cities in India

A nationwide study was carried out to develop air pollution source profiles specific to India. Chemical speciation profiles are reported for 27 major non-vehicular sources of particulate matter (combustion and non-combustion) in six cities in India viz. Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Kanpur, Mumbai and Pune. PM10 and PM2.5 samples were collected from these sources using three different modes of sampling viz. dilution, resuspension and source dominated sampling, depending on the nature of the source. Filter samples were analyzed for mass by gravimetric analysis, elements by Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-AES), water soluble ions by ion chromatography and elemental (EC) and organic carbon (OC) by thermal/optical reflectance. Reported profiles include 39 elements, 12 ions, EC and OC. Developed profiles are compared with similar profiles that have been reported previously.