Exploring the interplay between particulate matter capture, wash-off, and leaf traits in green wall species

The study investigated inter-species variation in particulate matter (PM) accumulation, wash-off, and retention on green wall plants, with a focus on leaf characteristics. Ten broadleaf plant species were studied in an experimental green wall. Ambient PM concentrations remained relatively stable throughout the measurement period: PM1: 16.60 ± 9.97 μgm−3, PM2.5: 23.27 ± 11.88 μgm−3, and PM10: 39.59 ± 25.72 μgm−3. Leaf samples were taken before and after three rainfall events, and PM deposition was measured using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Leaf micromorphological traits, including surface roughness, hair density, and stomatal density, exhibited variability among species and leaf surfaces. Notably, I.sempervirens and H.helix had relatively high PM densities across all size fractions. The study underscored the substantial potential of green wall plants for atmospheric PM removal, with higher Wall Leaf Area Index (WLAI) species like A.maritima and T.serpyllum exhibiting increased PM accumulation at plant level. Rainfall led to significant wash-off for smaller particles, whereas larger particles exhibited lower wash-off rates. Leaf micromorphology impacted PM accumulation, although effects varied among species, and parameters such as surface roughness, stomatal density, and leaf size did not consistently affect PM deposition. The composition of deposited particles encompassed natural, vehicular, salt, and unclassified agglomerates, with minimal changes after rainfall. Air Pollution Tolerance Index (APTI) assessments revealed that I.sempervirens displayed the highest air pollution tolerance, while O.vulgare had the lowest. APTI showed a moderate positive correlation with PM deposition across all fractions. The study concluded that the interplay of macro and micromorphology in green wall plant species determines their PM removal potential. Further research is needed to identify the key leaf characteristics for optimal green wall species selection for effective PM removal.