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Soil samples from the area of Hanau (Hessen, Germany) were analyzed for anthropogenic platinum-group elements (PGE). The results confirm the existence of two different sources for anthropogenic PGE: 1. automotive catalysts, and 2. PGE-processing plants. Both sources emit qualitatively and quantitatively different PGE spectra and PGE interelemental ratios (especially the Pt/Rh ratio). Elevated PGE values which are due to automotive catalysts are restricted to a narrow-range along roadside soil, whereas those due to PGE-processing plants display a large-area dispersion. The emitted PGE-containing particles in the case of automotive catalysts are subject to transport by wind and water, whereas those from PGE-processing plants are preferably transported by wind. This points to a different aerodynamic particle size. Pt, Pd, and Rh concentrations along motorways are dependent on the amount of traffic and the driving characteristics.

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The alternative use of lithium tetraborate and/or sodium tetraborate as flux constituents in the quantitative determination of platinum group elements (PGE) in standard reference materials SARM‐7, CHR‐Pt+ and CHR‐Bkg by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry after preconcentration by nickel sulphide fire assay was reinvestigated. Results showed that lithium tetraborate has a lower recovery rate than sodium tetraborate, except for chromitites with PGE abundances in the ppm‐range. Best results for chromitites were obtained by using a mixture (1:1) of the two tetraborates. Examination of the NiS‐reguli by an electron microprobe revealed finer grain‐sizes of PGE‐phases for lithium tetraborate and coarser ones for sodium tetraborate, the finer grains being a possible reason for greater losses during analysis filtration.

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