Variations in black carbon and particulate matters (PM1, PM2.5 and PM10) during firecrackers bursting episodes and biomass burning: A case study during the Diwali festival

The Black Carbon (BC) and Particulate Matters (PMs) was measured in the Diwali festival during 3-7 November, 2021. Diwali is being one of the main festivals of India accompanied by lighting and firecrackers bursting.

BC concentration was measured by aerosol black carbon low-cost sensor/detector and PM1, PM2.5 and PM10 mass concentration as well as number concentration was measured using Grimm Aerosol Spectrometer at Agra, India.

Average mass of PM1 (<1 μm), PM2.5 (<2.5 μm) and PM10 (<10 μm) were 218.32±56.82 μg/m3, 261.56±74.38 μg/m3 and 380.40±67.78 μg/m3 respectively in Diwali day (2021). The observed concentration of PM was much higher than National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) and World Health Organization (WHO) standard limits. Diurnal peaks for all the pollutants (PM1, PM2.5 and PM10) were perceived in the evening time which was due to festival celebration events. Particle Size number Distribution (PSND) showed one major peak in the particle <1 μm size range. BC mass concentration was found to be 16.28±5.62 μg/m3 in Diwali days. BC/PMs ratio decreases as the PM size increases due to the heavy load of PM2.5.

BC and PM concentration was significantly amplified on Diwali due to firecrackers bursting and candles and biomass burning which was responsible for the poor air quality. Particle Mass Size Distribution (PSMD) showed multiple peaks while PSND showed one major peak in fine mode. Higher PM1/PM2.5 indicated the abundance of fine particles as compared to coarse. BC concentration was increased by 20 % on Diwali day due to firecracker bursting, other burning materials and more vehicles movement.