Modeling of residential indoor PM_2.5 exposure in 37 counties in China

It is critical to estimate the exposure to indoor air pollution of residents spending most of their time in such microenvironments. However, the understanding regarding PM_2.5 exposure in residential indoor environments is very limited. In this study, we collected participants' basic information and time-activity patterns, as well as details of other factors related to indoor air pollution exposure, through questionnaires presented to a large population in 37 counties of China. Continuous monitoring of ambient PM_2.5 concentrations was performed using an environmental fixed-site monitoring network. Residential indoor PM_2.5 concentrations were predicted using a mass balance model based on the data obtained. Evaluation of continuous daily average residential indoor PM_2.5 exposure doses for large populations during winter revealed concentrations ranged from 67 to 195 μg/m³. Finally, differences in residential indoor PM_2.5 exposure between northern and southern China were investigated. The results suggested that residential indoor PM_2.5 concentrations in northern China, associated with heating, were higher than in the south. The established model could be important for improved understanding of human exposure to indoor PM_2.5 air pollution.