The terms particulate, particulates or particulate matter have a variety of different but related meanings, depending on context. It often referes to a colloidal particle - tiny pieces of matter suspended in a gas, liquid or solid.
Particulates in water
editSuspended solids in a liquid are measured as total suspended solids, and are referred to as insoluble particulate matter. They can be can be removed by water filters or settling and can be a form of water pollution. A colloidal suspension of very small solid particles in a continuous liquid is called a Sol.
Particulates in air
editParticulates in the atmosphere are solid or liquid matter suspended in air. In contrast, aerosol refers to particles and/or liquid droplets and the gas together. Sources of atmospheric particulate matter can be man made or natural. Atmospheric particulate matter can be a form of Air pollution or come from natural sources. These particles can have impacts on human health and on climate.
Granular material
editThe term particulates can also be used to refer to granular material - a conglomeration of discrete solid, macroscopic particles.
See also
edit- Particle
- Micromeritics - the science and technology of small particles