Spatiotemporal Distribution Characteristics of PM2.5 Components in the Yeosu and Gwangyang Industrial Complexes

Abstract

Particulate matter (PM) composition and distribution heavily rely on the spatiotemporal characteristics of its emission sources. This study analyzed the distribution characteristics and sources of fine PM (PM_2.5) and its chemical components at five locations near the Yeosu and Gwangyang industrial complexes. Samples were chemically analyzed, considering their ionic, carbonaceous, and trace elements, from August 2020 to July 2023. Spatial characteristics were examined using the coefficient of divergence and Pearson correlation coefficient, and temporal characteristics were investigated using monthly, seasonal, and annual distribution patterns. The range of average PM_2.5 concentrations at the five measurement sites was 17.2–20.3 μg/m³. The time-series analysis indicated that ionic species consistently comprised the largest proportion of PM_2.5 across all seasons and years (51.4–60.3%), with the highest proportion observed in winter. Trace elements and carbonaceous species were present in higher proportions in spring (19.4%) and autumn (35.7%), respectively. High concentrations of PM_2.5 and its chemical components were identified by temporal variations and emission sources. Principal component analysis showed that the chemical components of PM_2.5 were mainly from soil dust, vehicular emissions, the steel industry, and other pollution sources. This study provides foundational data for future research aimed at air pollutant emissions management and PM_2.5 source apportionment.