The carbonaceous particles represent a significant fraction in the particulate matter (PM) and are considered an environmental hazard due to their effects on climate and health. The main goal in this research is to identify and analyze the scope that have been achieved so far on the characterization and measurement of the carbonaceous fraction present in PM, a great contribution to global pollution and thus to the deterioration of public health. The ProKnow-C methodology was used to build a bibliographic portfolio and perform a bibliometric and systemic analysis of the information found in the chosen databases. The contribution of these carbonaceous compounds to PM is very significant, reaching values up to 50%. The most used methods for the determination of organic and elemental carbon are thermo-optical reflectance and transmittance. Positive Factorization models are used worldwide to determine potential sources of particulate matter emissions. Even though various studies have been developed to understand these carbonaceous substances, there are several limitations in the measurements and limited knowledge on the subject. The positive outcomes and future possibilities were analyzed as well.

A comprehensive particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of 2.5 micrometers (μm) or less (PM2.5) analysis that considers chemical composition, transport pathways, and particle morphology to understand pollution events.