Integrated spatial analysis and Gaussian dispersion modelling of airborne particulate matter from rice processing mill hubs in rural Bangladesh and associated public health risks

作者：Rubaiatul Islam Zerin, Md.Kamrul Hossain, Humaira Rashid, Sababa Tasnim, Julfikar Ali, Md. Mizanur Rahman, Mohd. Maniruzzaman, Rafiquel Islam · 发表于：Environmental Science and Pollution Research · 年份：2026 · DOI：10.1007/s11356-026-38036-9 · 研究领域：Air Quality and Health Impacts、Atmospheric chemistry and aerosols、COVID-19 impact on air quality

The rapid expansion of rice processing mills in agriculturally rich regions, such as Khajanagar, Kushtia, has resulted in elevated concentrations of particulate matter (PM), posing serious environmental and public health risks. The close proximity of rice mills to residential areas necessitates evaluating particulate matter dispersion to assess neighbourhood-level health risks. This study examines the spatial distribution, dispersion behaviour, and health impacts of PM₂.₅ and PM₁₀ across industrial and adjacent residential zones. A total of 69 sampling points were monitored using optical particle counters (OPCs) at 0-100 m (industrial) and 101-300 m (residential) distances, along with meteorological observations. PM₂.₅ concentrations in industrial areas exceeded all regulatory limits in Bangladesh, the WHO, and the U.S. EPA, while PM₁₀ exceeded WHO standards only within industrial zones; both fractions exceeded all benchmarks in residential areas. The Kruskal-Wallis test (p < 0.05) confirmed significant interzonal variation. Spatial mapping identified PM hotspots in the western and eastern industrial belts and the western residential cluster, providing empirical evidence of localized emission intensity and downwind accumulation driven by mill density and prevailing wind patterns. PM₂.₅ and PM₁₀ were highly correlated, though their relationships with humidity and temperature were weak. Gaussian plume modelling indicated that PM₁₀ dispersed and deposited over greater distances ...