Characterization and Source Apportionment Analysis of PM2.5 and Ozone Pollution over Fenwei Plain, China: Insights from PM2.5 Component and VOC Observations

Toxics. 2025 Feb 6;13(2):123. doi: 10.3390/toxics13020123.

Abstract

PM2.5 and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have been identified as the primary air pollutants affecting the Fenwei Plain (FWP), necessitating urgent measures to improve its air quality. To gain a deeper understanding of the formation mechanisms of these pollutants, this study employed various methods such as HYSPLIT, PCT, and PMF for analysis. Our results indicate that the FWP is primarily impacted by PM2.5 from the southern Shaanxi air mass and the northwestern air mass during winter. In contrast, during summer, it is mainly influenced by O3 originating from the southern air mass. Specifically, high-pressure fronts are the dominant weather pattern affecting PM2.5 pollution in the FWP, while high-pressure backs predominately O3 pollution. Regarding the sources of PM2.5, secondary nitrates, vehicle exhausts, and secondary sulfates are major contributors. As for volatile organic compounds, liquefied petroleum gas sources, vehicle exhausts, solvent usage, and industrial emissions are the primary sources. This study holds crucial scientific significance in enhancing the regional joint prevention and control mechanism for PM2.5 and O3 pollution, and it provides scientific support for formulating effective strategies for air pollution prevention and control.

Keywords: Fenwei Plain; PM2.5 and O3; circulation classification; positive matrix factorization; source apportionment.