Enhanced diesel emissions at low ambient temperature: hazardous materials in fine particles

The emission of fine particles (PM_2.5) from diesel trucks is enhanced by low ambient temperatures, which is a fact that has attracted considerable attention. Carbonaceous matter and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are the dominant hazardous materials in PM_2.5. These materials induce severe adverse effects on air quality and human health and contribute to climate change. The emissions from heavy- and light-duty diesel trucks were tested at an ambient temperature of − 20 to − 13 ℃ and 18–24 ℃. This is the first study to quantify the enhanced carbonaceous matter and PAH emissions from diesel trucks at very low ambient temperatures based on an on-road emission test system. Features affecting diesel emissions, including driving speed, vehicle type, and engine certification level, were considered. The emissions of organic carbon, elemental carbon, and PAHs significantly increased from − 20 to − 13 ℃. The empirical results revealed that intensive abatement of diesel emissions at low ambient temperatures could benefit human health and have a positive influence on climate change. Considering the widespread applications worldwide, an investigation into diesel emissions of carbonaceous matter and PAHs in fine particles at low ambient temperatures is urgently required.