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PM10 and PM2.5 levels in the Eastern Mediterranean (Akrotiri Research Station, Crete, Greece)

Lazaridis Michalis, Džumbová Lucie, Kopanakis Ilias, Ondráček Jakub, Glytsos Theodoros, Αλεξανδροπούλου Βικτώρια, Voulgarakis, A, Katsivela Eleftheria, Mihalopoulos, Nikolaos, Eleftheriadis Konstantinos

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Summary

Particulate matter measurements (PM10, PM2.5) using a beta radiation attenuation monitor were performed at the Akrotiri research station (May 2003–March 2006) on the island of Crete (Greece). The mean PM10 concentration during the measuring period (05/02/03–03/09/04) was equal to 35.0 ± 17.7 μg/m3 whereas the mean PM2.5 concentration (03/10/04–04/02/06) was equal to 25.4 ± 16.5 μg/m3. The aerosol concentration at the Akrotiri station shows a large variability during the year. Mean concentrations of particulate matter undergo a seasonal change characterised by higher concentrations during summer [PM10, 38.7 ± 10.8 μg/m3 (2003); PM2.5, 27.9 ± 8.7 μg/m3 (2004) and 27.8 ± 9.7 μg/m3 (2005)] and lower concentrations during winter [PM10, 28.7 ± 22.5 μg/m3 (2003/2004); PM2.5, 21.0 ± 13.0 μg/m3 (2004/2005) and 21.4 ± 21.9 μg/m3 (2005/2006)]. Comparative measurements of the PM10 concentration between the beta radiation attenuation monitor, a standardized low volume gravimetric reference sampler and a low volume sequential particulate sampler showed that PM10 concentrations measured by the beta radiation attenuation monitor were higher than values given by the gravimetric samplers (mean ratio 1.17 ± 0.11 and 1.21 ± 0.08, respectively). Statistical and back trajectory analysis showed that elevated PM concentrations (PM10, 93.8 ± 49.1 μg/m3; PM2.5: 102.9 ± 59.9 μg/m3) are associated to desert dust events. In addition regional transport contributes significantly to the aerosol concentration levels whereas low aerosol concentrations were observed during storm episodes.

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