In recent years, it has been shown that fine particle
concentrations in the atmosphere are strongly correlated with
increased mortality rates and respiratory disease. One of the
major anthropogenic sources of fine particles is coal-fired
power generation. This study has been initiated to determine the
contribution of coal fired power stations (CFPS) to the levels
of atmospheric dust. Sampling has been conducted in the Upper
Hunter Valley, Australia, at an existing monitoring site 7km SE
of two large CFPS. Time resolved samples have been collected on
carbon tape using a Burkard spore sampler. SO₂ at the site has
been shown to be predominantly from the CFPS. This has been used
as an indicator of when power station impacts are likely to be
greatest; sections of the tape have been selectively analysed by
Scanning Electron Microscopy to estimate the mass concentration
of particles emitted by CFPS. This paper reviews the methodology
and presents preliminary results indicating that the maximum
contribution due to CF