Oxidative potential of ambient aerosols: an Indian perspective

Aerosols are tiny particles suspended in ambient air and therefore follow the air transport pathway. Many species present in ambient aerosols such as transition metals or some organics have the potential to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) in situ. These ROS affect oxidizing capacity of the atmosphere. On inhalation, aerosols can generate ROS in the respiratory system of humans, which may result in a variety of cardiopulmonary diseases. Further, ROS can also affect plant growth and productivity. India has a wide variety of pollutant sources with perennial emissions. Although there are reasonable number of studies on the physical, chemical and optical properties of aerosols, virtually no information is available on the oxidative potential of ambient aerosols and its consequences. Therefore, it is important to assess the oxidative potential of ambient aerosols on a temporal and spatial scale over sites dominated by different emission sources and meteorological conditions in India.