Characterization and Health Risk of PM_2.5 Exposure in South Tangerang, Indonesia

This study focuses on the characterization of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and the assessment of health risks associated with it. PM2.5 samples were collected in Serpong using the SuperSASS (speciation air sampling system) every 3 days from August to October 2022. The mass concentration of PM2.5 was determined gravimetrically, while black carbon (BC) was measured using a reflectance method. Energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) was employed to quantify the elemental composition. Additionally, measurement of the reconstructed mass (RCM) for PM2.5 was conducted to enhance the understanding of PM2.5 composition and its sources. The PM2.5 measurements indicated concentrations ranging from 13.07 to 71.26 μg/m3, with an average concentration of 41.80 ± 0.99 μg/m3. Sulfur (S) and lead (Pb) were identified as the predominant metals, with average concentrations of 2.71 ± 1.24 and 1.42 ± 1.28 μg/m3, respectively. The average RCM for PM2.5 was 49.2 ± 12.2%, comprising 15.2% black carbon, 25.7% sulfate, 1.73% soil, 0.84% sea salt, 1.05% smoke and 4.62% trace elements. The health implications of PM2.5 were assessed using the hazard quotient (HQ) and excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) for Pb, Cr and nickel Ni. The HQ and ELCR values for the studied metals were within the safe range. The order of HQ values was Pb > Cr > Ni, while the trend of ELCR values was Cr > Pb > Ni across all age groups. These findings provide reliable information regarding PM2.5 concentration and composition, potential sources of PM2.5 and health effect, thereby contributing to the development of an early warning system for air pollution in Serpong, Indonesia.