A study conducted by the Miguel Hernández University (UMH) has revealed that air quality in the city of Elche deteriorates during the winter months. Although overall levels are not considered dangerous for the general population, air monitoring is crucial for identifying potential risk sources. The research, published in the scientific journal Atmospheric Environment, analyzes pollutant particles present in the air, particularly in a central area with road traffic and poor ventilation.
The team from the Atmospheric Pollution Laboratory (LCA) at the UMH has collected samples of microscopic particles, classifying them into PM10 (up to 10 microns) and PM1 (up to 1 micron). According to Eduardo Yubero, lead researcher, PM1 particles are the most concerning due to their potential for deep penetration into the respiratory system and their ability to cause inflammation and oxidative stress.
In addition to concentration, the oxidative potential of the particles has been measured, a factor indicating their potential toxicity to health. The dithiothreitol (DTT) assay simulates the action of the body's natural antioxidants; if the sample rapidly oxidizes DTT, it has the capacity to deplete the body's defenses. Results show that the potential toxicity in winter doubles compared to summer at the studied location.
Marina Alfosea Simón, the study's first author, explains that airborne particles in winter exhibit higher oxidative potential, making them more harmful to health. This increase is associated with traffic concentrated in narrow streets and agricultural burning in peripheral areas, which release active PM1 particles. Nuria Galindo, another researcher, adds that 'non-exhaust' emissions, such as metallic dust from brake and tire wear, also elevate the oxidative capacity of the air.
Winter weather conditions, with cold air layers trapped near the ground, hinder the vertical dispersion of pollutants, concentrating particles from traffic, chimneys, and burning. Despite the winter increase, absolute pollution levels remain within safe limits, according to the expert, ensuring the air is not dangerous for the population.
This work is part of the CAMBIO project (ref. TED2021-131336B-I00), funded by the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities, the State Research Agency (AEI), and the NextGenerationEU program. It also received support from the Generalitat Valenciana (project CIAICO/2021/280) and the TOXICAR project (ref. PID2023-149608OB-I00), co-financed by FEDER and the AEI.
