Salma Zaim

Salma Zaim


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

2Years (2025-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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16 July 2025 in Environments
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Journal Article
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SZSalma Zaim
Salma Zaim
BLBouchra Laarabi
Bouchra Laarabi
HCHajar Chamali
Hajar Chamali
ADAbdelouahed Dahrouch
Abdelouahed Dahrouch
AAAsmae Arbaoui
Asmae Arbaoui
Mouhaydine TlemcaniMouhaydine Tlemcani
Mouhaydine Tlemcani
The worldwide air pollution situation reveals significant environmental challenges. In addition to being a major contributor to the deterioration of air quality, particulate matter (PM) is also an important factor affecting the performance of solar energy systems given its ability to decrease light transmission to solar panels. As part of our research, the present investigation involves monitoring concentrations of PM using a high-performance optical instrument, the in situ calibration protocol of which is described in detail. For the city of Rabat, observations revealed significant variations in concentrations between day and night, with peaks observed around 8 p.m. correlating with high relative humidity and low wind speeds, and the highest levels recorded in February with a monthly average value reaching 75 µm/m3. In addition, an experimental protocol was set up for an analysis of the elemental composition of particles in the same city using SEM/EDS, providing a better understanding of their morphology. To assess the impact of meteorological variables on PM concentrations in two distinct climatic environments, a database from the city of Marrakech for the year 2024 was utilized. Overall, the distribution of PM values during this period did not fluctuate significantly, with a monthly average value not exceeding 45 µm/m3. The random forest method identified the most influential variables on these concentrations, highlighting the strong influence of the type of environment. The findings provide crucial information for the modeling of solar installations’ soiling and for improving understanding of local air quality.