Investigating the performance of urban air quality monitoring station in measuring PM2.5 and PM10: A case study in Tehran, Iran

Background: In recent years, new findings on the relationship between human health and air pollutants have emerged, underscoring the necessity for appropriate site selection of air monitoring stations. Methods: This analytical-cross-sectional study aimed to compare the concentration levels of PM10 and PM2.5, as measured by weight method, with data collected from an air quality monitoring station (AQMS) in Tehran. Initially, data were collected from the Tarbiat Modares AQMS. The accuracy of this data was then evaluated using a high-volume sampler and Grimm dust monitor situated approximately 200 meters away from the Tarbiat Modares station. The study period was between June 2017 and October 2017, and the frequency of sampling was every six days according to the instructions. Results: The results revealed that the average concentration levels of PM10, as measured during the sampling period by the high-volume sampler, the Grimm device, and the air quality measurement station, were 143.54±33.84, 70.95±7.06, and 110.06±27.08 µg.m-3, respectively. The highest daily concentration of PM10 was recorded by the high-volume sampler device at 197.12 µg.m-3. Conclusion: This study found a weak correlation between the aerosol concentration data obtained from the monitoring station and those obtained from the Grimm device and the high-volume sampler. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure the quality control and assurance of data collected from monitoring stations for accurate decision-making and planning.