Comparability between PM2.5 and particle light scattering measurements

Particle light scattering and PM2.5 (particles with aerodynamic diameters less than 2.5 mum) concentration data from air quality studies conducted over the past ten years were examined. Fine particle scattering efficiencies were determined from statistical relationships among measured light scattering and fine and coarse mass concentrations. The resulting fine particle scattering efficiencies ranged from 1.7 m(2) g(-1) at Meadview in the Grand Canyon to over 5 m(2) g(-1) in Mexico City. Most of the derived fine scattering efficiencies were centered around 2 m(2) g(-1), which is considerably lower than most values reported from previous studies.