Leaf micromorphology parameter selection for air pollutant capture in green corridors

Abstract Air pollution, particularly atmospheric particulate matter (PM), poses significant environmental and health challenges. Understanding how plants capture PM is essential for selecting effective species for green corridors, which play a vital role in mitigating air pollution. Previous studies have used 3D optical profilometry and SEM imaging to quantify leaf roughness, but these efforts have not established a clear link between roughness and PM capture. The current study employs similar techniques to analyse leaf surface characteristics and identify key parameters that influence PM retention. Our results highlight that core void volume (Vvc) and core material volume (Vmc) are the most significant factors affecting PM capture, with Vvc being slightly more influential. Due to their high correlation, either parameter may serve as a reliable prediction for PM retention. Among the species studied, Cupressus Leylandii demonstrated exceptional performance, attributed to its complex branching structure and higher Vvc and Vmc values compared to other species. These findings highlight the importance of selecting plant species with optimal surface characteristics to maximize PM retention in urban environments. By incorporating diverse species with varying leaf micromorphologies, green corridors can be strategically designed to enhance air quality. This study p offers actionable guidance for urban planning and the design of green barriers aimed at reducing air pollution.