Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Chapter 3
Anthropogenic Sources of Nanoparticles
Nicolae Strambeanu, Laurentiu Demetrovici, and Dan Dragos
Abstract This chapter deals with anthropogenic sources of nanoparticles in atmo-
sphere. The stationary and diffuse sources are described first: mining and extraction
of fossil fuels, ferrous and non-ferrous ores and other mineral resources. Brief
references are then made to secondary stationary sources of particulate matter
which originate in thermal energy and power generation, ferrous and non-ferrous
metallurgy, chemical industry and construction materials (cement, lime) production
technologies. A separate section is dedicated to particulate matter resulted from
municipal, toxic and hazardous waste incineration and its effect on the environment
and human health. The authors also speak about emissions from point sources of
nanoparticles, such as the residential heating sector that makes a major contribution
to the total amount of nanoparticles produced by anthropogenic activities. Mobile
nanoparticle sources include engines that are most frequently used in the present:
plane engines, rocket engines, engines for road and water transport. Particulate
matter emissions can be reduced by using alternative fuels or other forms of
propulsion energy.
3.1
Introduction
Most human activities that take place in open air or produce emissions in the
environment generate, directly or indirectly, fine powders lifted by air currents.
As it has already been shown [
1
], the major fraction of particulate matter
(PM) floating in the atmosphere comes from space and it does not have a definite
origin that astrophysicists and astrogeologists can explain [
2
]. Nevertheless,
nanoparticles of anthropogenic origin are definitely among the most harmful
particulates, not only to human and animal health, but also to the environment.
