Characterization of particulate matter in the Apulia Region (South of Italy): features and critical episodes

The chemical composition of PM10 and PM2.5 samples collected during two
seasonal monitoring campaigns at residential, urban and industrial Apulia Region- sites was
investigated. Ionic fraction, carbonaceous compounds and Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons
were determined for all samples. High correlations among PM data collected in the
investigated sites suggested the regional character of particulate matter. It was also
confirmed by five days back trajectories analysis. Moreover, no significant seasonal trend in
PM mass concentration was observed in the investigated sites. These results, relevant for
the area under investigations, were not observed in the North of Italy and Europe and allow
to conclude that PM10 and PM2.5 cannot be considered 'good' indicators for the evaluation
of local anthropic contributions to air quality. On the contrary, the high levels of Polycyclic
Aromatic Hydrocarbons found in Taranto sampling sites suggested that PAHs can be a
better indicator for this purpose. This result is also relevant in order to weigh the importance
of industrial area and to suggest right policy control to decision makers.