Author(s)

F. Al Jallad, E. Al Katheeri & M. Al Omar

Abstract

Levels of particulate matter and meteorological variables (atmospheric temperature, relative humidity and wind speed) for 2009 to 2011were analyzed and evaluated. Data used in this paper were obtained from an ambient air quality station located in the western desert of Abu Dhabi Emirate-United Arab Emirates. The variation patterns of PM10 concentrations were explored, and their relationships with meteorological parameters were identified. The study area is characterized by relatively low wind speed, high temperatures and humidity and elevated levels of suspended particle concentrations. Hourly levels of PM10 were found to range between 4 to 3474μg/m3 with 27% of the daily average values exceeding the national standard limit of 150μg/m3. The diurnal variation pattern of PM10 showed two concentration peaks, the first of which occurred in the afternoon whereas the second peak occurred at 16:00. The highest level of PM10 was observed on Tuesdays, while the lowest level was on Fridays. The highest main value of PM10 was observed on July where a level of 204μg/m3 was reported and lowest level of 47μg/m3 was reported in January. Pearson’s analysis revealed a positive correlation between PM10 and temperature, low humidity (≤13%) and wind speed conditions. On the other hand, a strong inverse relationship was observed between PM10 concentrations and relative humidity higher than 13%. Keywords: particulate matter, meteorological parameters, Abu Dhabi, statistical analysis.

Keywords

particulate matter, meteorological parameters, Abu Dhabi, statistical analysis