Particulate matter contains inorganic ions such as sulfate, nitrates, ammonium, and organic compounds such as PAHs and polychlorinated biophenyls.  PM2.5 includes particles with diameter of 2.5 microns or smaller that can penetrate deeper into the lungs and even the bloodstream. Tiny particles can be deposited into the tracheo-bronchial airway of the lungs or in the gas-exchange region after passing through the throat and larynx. PM2.5 is likely to affect more internal systems causing systemic inflammation whereas PM10 cannot penetrate deeper into the lungs but still creates respiratory distress.

PM2.5 and PM10 exposure has been associated with respiratory diseases such as shortness of breath, sinusitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and increased risk of cardiovascular effects . Acute respiratory effects of short-term exposure to high levels of particulate matter includes coughing, sneezing and shortness of breathe whereas development of respiratory diseases and increased risk of respiratory infections could be chronic effects. Children and Elderly are vulnerable groups to the adverse health effects and more susceptible to the higher rates of hospital admissions.

Although sources of particulate matter in the atmosphere includes commercial, transport, household and industrial sector, vehicular exhaust has significant contribution to the urban area. Road dust, industrial processes, electricity generation, fires and residential wood combustion are the top five contributors of PM2.5 emission by source sector.

Technologies to remove particulate matter from the air includes electrostatic precipitators, activated carbon filter and bioaerogels. Bioaerogels are more effective and environmental-friendly tools with lower carbon footprint. Bioaerogels are the products of natural polymers with high surface area, high thermal and mechanical resistance. Bioaerogels facilitate adsorption of particulate matter from the air due to highly porous structure and larger surface area.