Measurement and Analysis of Particulate Matter Exposure in Subway Commuting in High-Density Residential Areas

Subways, as a primary component of urban public transportation, harbor particulate matter within their microenvironments that pose health risks to commuters. To enhance the health of individuals during their subway commutes, a study was conducted to analyze the spatiotemporal heterogeneity of fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) concentrations in the subway microenvironment. The results show that: The PM_2.5 concentration in underground train carriages on weekdays (113.67 μg/m³) is higher than on non-working days (47.62 μg/m³), and the PM_2.5 concentration in underground train carriages is significantly higher than in above-ground and elevated sections (seven times higher); lines constructed earlier have higher PM_2.5 concentrations than newly built lines; the PM_2.5 concentration on platforms exhibit a cyclical trend with the arrival and departure of trains; fully enclosed screen doors are more effective than full-height security doors in controlling the accumulation of particles; the PM_2.5 concentration during off-peak hours (75 μg/m³) is lower than during peak hours (102 μg/m³). Furthermore, the study analyzed the potential impact of off-peak travel strategies on the PM_2.5 exposure levels of commuters, the results suggests that off-peak travel could reduce exposure by 25.58% during a single commute. The results of the study provide data support for the prevention.