Temporal Variations and Spatial Distribution of Ambient PM sub(2.2) and PM sub(10) Concentrations in Dhaka, Bangladesh

The temporal variations and spatial distribution of ambient PM[2.2] and PM sub(10) concentrations in Dhaka, Bangladesh were presented. The samples were collected using a 'Gent' stacked filter unit in two fractions of 0-2.2 mu m and 2.2-10 mu sizes. Samples of fine and coarse airborne particulate matter fractions collected from 2000 to 2003 were also studied. It was observed that the both local and possibly some regional emission sources were responsible for high PM[2.2] and BC concentrations in Dhaka. PM[2.2], PM[2.2-10] and black carbon concentration levels depended on the season, wind direction and wind speed. Transport related emissions were the major source of BC and long-range transportation from fossil fuel related sources and biomass burning could be another substantial source of BC.