Differences in the spatial distribution and chemical composition of PM10 between the UK and Poland

The Fine Resolution Atmospheric Multi-pollutant Exchange Model was used to calculate the spatial distribution and chemical composition of PM10 concentrations for two geographically remote countries in Europe—the UK and Poland—for the year 2007. These countries are diverse in terms of pollutant emissions as well as climate conditions. Information on the contribution of natural and anthropogenic as well as national and imported particles in total PM10 concentrations in both countries is presented. The paper shows that the modelled national annual average PM10 concentrations, calculated for the entire country area, are similar for the UK and Poland and close to 12 μg m−3. Secondary inorganic aerosols dominate the total PM10 concentrations in Poland. Primary particulate matter has the greatest contribution to total PM10 in the UK, with large contribution of base cations. Anthropogenic sources predominate (81 %) in total PM10 concentrations in Poland, whereas natural prevail in the UK—hence, the future reduction of PM10 air concentrations by emissions reduction could be more difficult in the UK than in Poland.