Mass spectrometry applied to studies of lead in the atmosphere

Isotope Ratios of Lead in Italian Wines by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry

“…Research in Missouri and California showed the possibility to distinguish among sources of lead contamination on the basis of the isotope ratios (IR) of lead, as the isotopic composition in the above-mentioned matrixes was different from that in the local lead ores, refined metal, and topsoils and dust near smelters (33). Although gasoline combustion and industrial fumes are usually considered among the main sources of lead pollution, Dean et al (34) suggested that the naturally occurring lead in vineyard soil may be the principal source of lead for wines from rural areas, confirming previous findings (35). Rosman et al (36) suggested that the gasoline was not a significant lead source for French wines of the vintages from 1950 to 1991.…”

Determination of lead isotope ratios in crude oils with Q-ICP/MS

“…Variations in lead isotope ratios are therefore used to determine the source of Pb contamination. [8][9][10][11][12][13] In the geosciences, the 206 Pb/ 204 Pb, 207 Pb/ 204 Pb, and 208 Pb/ 204 Pb ratios are used to trace the origin of different geological materials (e.g. volcanic rocks).…”

Assessment of overall accuracy of lead isotope ratios determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry using batch quality control and the Youden two-sample method

“…The use of lead isotope ratio studies as a means of identifying environmental sources of lead is now well established. [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12] Lead in the environment generally reflects contributions from multiple sources, and thus isotope ratios are observed which are weighted averages of multiple original ore sources. The use of lead isotope ratio data can be especially effective in identifying sources in localized problem areas such as mining and smelting sites.…”