Year-round, all around the world, people celebrate special occasions by lighting up dazzling fireworks displays. While these colorful explosions bring joy and celebration, they also release a significant amount of fine and ultrafine particles into the air. To better understand the impact of fireworks on air quality, we conducted particle measurements in Münster, Germany, using state-of-the-art aerosol monitoring instruments.
Measurement Setup: Capturing Real-World Data
The measurements were performed from a residential balcony facing a garden, away from the direct vicinity of fireworks displays. This setup allowed for "background measurements," meaning the recorded data primarily reflected general ambient conditions rather than direct emissions from nearby firework sources. The instruments used included: 
- NanoScan SMPS™ Model 3910 – Capturing ultrafine particle size distributions (10-420 nm)
- Optical Particle Sizer (OPS) Model 3330 – Measuring larger fine particles (300 nm – 10 µm)
A Drastic Increase in Particle Concentration
The results showed a striking increase in airborne particle concentrations immediately following the onset of fireworks. Prior to midnight, the recorded particle number concentration (PNC) was 3,123 particles per cm³. Just 19 minutes later, at 00:09 AM on January 1, the PNC had surged to 40,795 particles per cm³ - a factor of 13 increase!
This sharp rise indicates that even in locations without direct exposure to fireworks, the widespread dispersal of fine and ultrafine particles significantly impacts local air quality.
The Impact on Particulate Mass (PM10)
Mass concentration levels (PM10) also showed a pronounced increase. The recorded values on New Year’s Eve exceeded the daily average limit of 50 µg/m³, reinforcing concerns about short-term exposure to high pollution levels during such events.
Particle Size Distribution and Health Implications
Analysis of the size distribution revealed that most emitted particles fell within the ultrafine range (<100 nm). These tiny particles are particularly concerning for human health as they can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, potentially causing respiratory and cardiovascular issues.
Key Takeaways and Future Considerations
- Fireworks significantly increase fine and ultrafine particle concentrations, even in locations without direct exposure.
- Ultrafine particles dominate emissions, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and assessment of potential health risks.
- Short-term exposure to high PNC and PM levels can exceed regulatory guidelines, raising questions about mitigation strategies for future events.
These findings underscore the importance of real-time air quality monitoring, especially during large-scale celebrations. With growing awareness of air pollution’s health effects, more research is needed to explore ways to minimize exposure while still enjoying festive traditions.