Aerosol analysis by MEB-EDX

The aerosols, which are fine particles suspended in the air, play a primary role in our ecosystem, and their impacts on the environment  are directly related to air quality, climatic changes and human health. Moreover, these particles were classified by the World Health Organization, (OMS, 2006), as the most dangerous component of pollution on public health, the reason for which they have been the subject of several micro-analyzes applying various  techniques. These techniques include scanning electron microscopy coupled with Microanalysis X (SEM-EDX), generally used to study the physical properties of these particles and their morphologies. Also, to quantify their chemical compositions and to characterize existing biological species.

In our research work, we are precisely interested in the application of this technique SEM-EDX  for the analysis of air quality in different communities such as hospitals and schools. Via this contribution, we summarize the principle, the method of use and the main informations that can be obtained through the application of this technique on the aerosols. Several examples of research developed in the bibliography will be reported. The first results obtained at Bou-Ismail (36° 38’ 33 " North, 2° 41’ 24 " East) will be also exposed.