This research investigated the current methods of characterization of ions and metals in particulate matter pollutants from different emission sources. The study was conducted through the Proknow-C methodology, in which a portfolio that includes scientific and review articles was selected. The document addresses different methodologies currently used to quantify diverse ions and metals (IIMM) found in particulate matter (PM), specifically focused on PM10 and PM2.5. The investigation was made going through the types of filters used to capture the pollutant, the equipment and the corresponding characterization techniques. Results show the Proknow-C method is a reliable way to analyze PM pollution research, revealing the state of art for metals and ions types, characterization technologies, current situations and trends. Sulfate, nitrate, and ammonium ions are found in concentrations between 70 and 80% of the PM. Among the main metals found are chromium, nickel, lead, cadmium, iron, manganese, coper, and zinc. The main detection method found in the studied research was inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. It was also found that geographic information systems are a good tool for integrating special data with PM and air pollution, which could accelerate the diagnosis and thus the actions to give solution to the problem.