Abstract

This work characterizes collections of infrared spectra of individual dust particles of ∼4 µm size that were obtained from three very different environments: our lab air, a home air filter, and the 11 September 2001 World Trade Center event. Particle collection was done either directly from the air or by placing dust powder from various samples directly on the plasmonic mesh with 5 µm square holes as air is pumped through the mesh. This arrangement enables the recording of “scatter-free” infrared absorption spectra of individual particles of size comparable to the probing wavelengths whose vibrational signatures are otherwise dominated by scattering and dispersive line shape distortions. The spectra are sensitive to the amounts of various infrared active components and analysis using a Mie–Bruggeman model for mixed composition particles provides volume fractions of the components. Inhalation of dust particles of ∼4 µm size has significant health consequences as these are among the largest inhaled into people's lungs. The chemical composition of ∼4 µm respirable particles is of great interest from health, atmospheric, and environmental perspectives as different environments may pose different hazards and spectroscopic challenges.

© 2016 The Author(s)

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