Wind-Induced Resuspension and Net Removal of Particulate Matter (PM₁₋₁₀) on Urban Shrub and Climbing Species

Abstract

Elevated particulate matter (PM) concentrations pose severe health risks, necessitating green infrastructure mitigation. While deposition is well documented, wind-induced remobilization remains insufficiently quantified. This study establishes a size-fractionated (PM₁₋₂.₅ and PM₂.₅₋₁₀) wind-induced resuspension and net removal values for six Central European shrub and climbing species (Parthenocissus quinquefolia, Hedera helix, Viburnum opulus, Viburnum lantana, Ligustrum ovalifolium, and Cornus mas) under controlled laboratory conditions. Following standardized aerosol chamber loading, leaves were subjected to constant, laminar airflow velocity of 3 m/s. Numerical quantification of particle counts per unit area (cm2) was performed via scanning electron microscopy with backscattered electron signal processing. Results demonstrate significant interspecific variations. Parthenocissus quinquefolia was most efficient, retaining the highest particle counts (121.6 × 10³ particles/cm² for PM₂.₅₋₁₀) and achieving net removal rates of 46.3% and 60.5% for PM₁₋₂.₅ and PM₂.₅₋₁₀, respectively, relative to initial deposition. Cornus mas exhibited the lowest net removal efficiency for coarse particles (21.2% for PM₂.₅₋₁₀), while Hedera helix showed the highest fractional resuspension rates (k = 1.93 × 10⁻₄ ∙ s⁻¹ and 2.01 × 10⁻₄ ∙ s⁻¹, respectively). These species-specific traits are vital for optimizing urban green infrastructure. Ultimately, these findings provide actionable recommendations for targeted plant selection to maximize urban air purification.