SPATIAL DISTRIBUTION OF OUTDOOR PARTICULATE MATTER (PM2.5 ) CONCENTRATION

ABSTRACT

Particulate matter (PM) are microscopic particles of solid or liquid matter suspended in the air. The spatial distribution of PM2.5 concentrations across twenty outdoor locations in Egor LGA was determined using a BIAOLING air quality monitor ATO-AIR-DM106A model. Sampling was conducted once monthly during the period spanning from June to July 2023 and the air quality index (AQI) values were also derived with the aid of a relevant equation. The mean PM2.5 values were subjected to unpaired T test analysis and was conducted at 95% probability level. The mean PM2.5 values obtained from the respective sampling points for June ranged from 12.33 µg/m3 to 42. The AQI values recorded for June ranged from 50 to 117. The difference between the two groups of PM 2.5 mean data was insignificant (P >0.05). The air quality index of Egor LGA was generally good and moderate with exception of Upper Ekenwan which was categorized to be unhealthy for sensitive group of people. It is recommended that more sampling points should be identified and the outdoor PM values should be determined from these points.