Methods and systems are provided for sensing particulate matter by a particulate matter (PM) sensor positioned upstream, or downstream, of a diesel particulate filter in an exhaust system. The PM sensor may include first and second conductive matrixes each having a three dimensional shape. The first matrix functions as a positive electrode, and the second functions as a negative electrode. Each matrix defines extensions and/or passages passing respectively through, and/or near, each other to form multiple soot capturing gaps. A first of the multiple soot capturing gaps is oriented orthogonal to a second of the multiple soot capturing gaps.