Microstructural Characterization of Particulate Matter from Gasoline-Fuelled Vehicle Emissions

Abstract

Exhaust emissions from vehicle traffic refers to the particles released into the air due to combustion of fuels, additives and wear of engine parts in the system during vehicle use. These emissions occur depending on the type of vehicle, type of fuel, combustion process and environmental conditions. In this study, microstructure and chemical characterization of particulate matter (PM) released from gasoline-fuelled vehicles were examined using electron microscopy techniques. As a result, much solid soot, metalloids, heavy metals, ash, sulphates, phosphates, minerals, volatile organic and inorganic pollutants were found to be present in gasoline exhaust emission. These toxic structures still pose a danger to environmental safety and human health. Aim: In study, microstructure characterization of emissions released from gasoline-fuelled vehicles exhaust were investigated using electron microscopy techniques. Study design: SEM, EDS, XRD and FTIR electron microscopy techniques were used for characterization. Place and Duration of Study: Material Characterization Laboratory of Karamanoğlu Mehmetbey University, Scientific and Technological Research Application and Research Center, between Junuary 2020 and July 2020. Results: The vehicles still continue to spread toxic pollutants. Conclusions: The chemical structure of PM contains 20 elements including C, F, N, Na, O, Mg, Br, Si, Hg, S, P, Pb, Ca, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Co, Cu, Zn. There are pollutant functional groups such as OH, CO, SO in the structure. Hydrocarbons, metalloids, heavy metals, different minerals, phosphates, sulfates, many volatile organic and inorganic compounds pollute the air in PM structure. These toxic pollutants harm the environment and human health.