Quantification of ambient PM2.5 concentrations adjacent to informal brick kilns in the Vhembe District using low-cost sensors

The widespread exposure to ambient PM_2.5 poses a substantial health risk globally, with a more pronounced impact on low- to medium-income nations. This study investigates the spatiotemporal distribution of PM_2.5 in the communities hosting informal brickmaking industries in Vhembe District. Utilizing Dylos DC1700, continuous monitoring of PM_2.5 was conducted at nine stations adjacent to informal brick kilns from March 2021 to February 2022. The study determined the correction factor for PM_2.5 measurements obtained from the Dylos DC1700 when it was collocated with the GRIMM Environmental Dust Monitor 180. Additionally, the diurnal and seasonal variations across monitoring stations were assessed, and potential PM_2.5 sources were identified. The study also evaluated the compliance of ambient PM_2.5 concentrations across the stations with the South African National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) limits. Annual PM_2.5 concentrations for the stations ranged from 22.6 to 36.2 μgm^-3. Diurnal patterns exhibited peak concentrations in the morning and evening, while seasonal variations showed higher concentrations in winter and lower concentrations in summer and spring. All monitoring stations reported the highest daily exceedance with respect to the daily NAAQS limit in the winter. Major PM_2.5 sources included domestic biomass combustion, vehicular emissions, industrial emissions, and construction sites. Well-calibrated low-cost sensors could be employed in suburb regions with scarce air quality data. Findings from the study could be used for developing mitigation strategies to reduce health risks associated with PM_2.5 exposure in the area.