Size-Resolved Characteristics, Governing Processes, and Health Implications of Atmospheric Metals: A Review
Corressponding author's email:
nlsphu@hcmus.edu.vnDOI:
https://doi.org/10.54644/jte.2026.2373Keywords:
Atmospheric metals, Particulate matter, Size distribution, Health effects, Deposition modelsAbstract
Atmospheric particulate matter acts as a carrier of toxic metals, posing significant risks to environmental quality and human health, yet their size-dependent behavior remains insufficiently synthesized. This study aims to review the distribution and controlling mechanisms of metals and mercury across particle sizes. A systematic synthesis of studies published over the past two decades was conducted, focusing on global research patterns, sampling approaches, analytical techniques, size distribution characteristics, influencing factors, and associated health impacts. Results indicate that research is concentrated mainly in East Asia and Europe, with limited data from tropical and developing regions. Size-segregated sampling is commonly performed using cascade impactors and micro-orifice uniform deposit impactors, while chemical analyses rely on techniques such as inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, X-ray fluorescence, atomic absorption spectrometry, cold vapor atomic fluorescence spectrometry, and direct mercury analyzers. Three dominant distribution patterns are identified, including fine-mode enrichment of toxic metals, bimodal distributions influenced by mixed sources, and coarse-mode dominance of crustal elements. Fine particles are primarily associated with combustion and secondary formation, whereas coarse particles originate from natural sources. Mercury exhibits distinct behavior due to its transformation and partitioning processes, with particulate-bound mercury often concentrated in accumulation-mode particles. Health-related findings highlight that smaller particles enhance the potential for deep lung deposition of toxic metals. Overall, this review provides an integrated understanding of size-resolved metal behavior and highlights critical research gaps, supporting future monitoring strategies and risk management.
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