| Abstract |
The recent ambient PM2.5 levels in Khon Kaen Province tend to be higher than in the previous decade. Notably, urban areas have higher PM2.5 concentrations than rural areas. This study aimed to evaluate the ambient PM2.5 concentrations and examine their temporal variation by season and time of day in the Muang District of Khon Kaen Province. Data were collected from May 2021–April 2022 using ambient PM2.5 detectors with Public Health Particulate Matter (PHPM) real-time sensors in all sub districts at a total of 36 sites, which displayed data through a smartphone application. Linear regression analysis was used to relate the variation of 24-hour average PM2.5 levels. Mean difference, 95% CI and p values were reported. The results showed that the 24-hour average ambient PM2.5 concentrations were 30.58 + 2.35 µg/m3. The highest concentration was found in the summer season (in March), 70.44 + 10.38 µg/m3 (higher than the Thailand Air Quality Standard of 50 µg/m3 in a 24-hour period), especially from 10:00 p.m.–12:00 a.m., which was 35.87 + 2.98 µg/m3. Also, there was a significant difference in terms of average seasonal PM2.5 levels (p value < 0.001); 20.55 µg/m3 (95% CI: 18.14–22.97) for the summer season and 15.45 µg/m3 (95% CI: 13.03–17.87) for the winter season. In terms of daily values, 3.17 µg/m3 (95% CI: 1.36–4.97) was observed at 10:00 p.m. The summer season (in March), from 10:00 p.m.–12:00 a.m., showed the highest concentrations of PM2.5. These results can be used to aid in monitoring particulate matter levels for local agencies and raise awareness among the public to limit their exposure particulate matter. |
Publication
Journal Publication
ไทย