Real-time analysis reveals a much higher proportion of harmful substances in particulate matter than assumed

Scientists Reveal the Hidden Chemistry of Air Pollution

Ultrafast electron imaging reveals never-before-seen nuclear motions in hydrocarbon molecules triggered by light. The interaction between hydrocarbon molecules and light can influence the formation of nitrous acid in the atmosphere, a compound that plays a significant role in air pollution. In this study, researchers investigated how proton transfer contributes to these light-induced molecular processes. Intramolecular [...]

The proportion of harmful substances in particulate matter is much higher than assumed

People breathing contaminated air over the course of years are at greater risk of developing numerous diseases. This is thought to be due to highly reactive components in particulate matter, which affect biological processes in the body. However, researchers have now shown that precisely these components disappear within hours and that previous measurements therefore completely underestimate the quantities in which they are present.

Real-time analysis reveals a much higher proportion of harmful substances in particulate matter than assumed

People breathing contaminated air over the course of years are at greater risk of developing numerous diseases. This is thought to be due to highly reactive components in particulate matter, which affect biological processes in the body. However, researchers from the University of Basel, Switzerland, have now shown that precisely these components disappear within hours and that previous measurements therefore completely underestimate the quantit…

© Jack / Adobe Stock New study: Fine dust contains 100× more harmful oxygen radicals than previously thought.

People who breathe in air with higher particulate matter over longer periods of time have a higher risk of cancer, as the particulate matter penetrates deeply into the lungs and tissues. In addition to cancer, the particulate matter exposure of the body is also associated with chronic respiratory problems such as asthma, cardiovascular diseases, dementia and diabetes. According to estimates by the World Health Organization WHO, fine dust causes …

The results, published in Environment International, highlight the potential impact of early exposure to air pollution on brain development. Research shows reduced functional connectivity within and between certain cortical and subcortical brain networks. These networks are interconnected brain structures that work together to perform different cognitive functions, such as thinking, perceiving and controlling movement. These results agree with p…