Spatial distribution and potential sources of trace elements in PM10 monitored in urban and rural sites of Piedmont Region

Abstract

The results on elemental composition of aerosol (PM10) sampled during 2011 in Piedmont region (Italy) are interpreted using meteorological data, Enrichment Factors (EF), chemometric processing by Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Factor Analysis (FA) and Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA).Daily concentrations of about 30 elements were measured using HR-ICP-MS in five monitoring sites. A clear seasonal pattern, with higher concentrations in autumn and winter, was observed, particularly in the urban sites. Levels of As, Cd, Ni and Pb in most of the samples were within the limits imposed by the European legislation. Spatial differences in PM10 and metal concentrations were significant, with rural and urban sites showing different metal patterns, indicating different sources. K and Ca were used, respectively, as marker of biomass burning and industrial marker (cement plant); EFs showed that Ca was enriched just in one area and K was enriched only in the winter period considered and in some stations.Data analysis through PCA, FA and HCA allowed us to identify correlations among the investigated elements and similarities between sampling sites in order to individuate specific emission sources, such as non-exhaust vehicle emission. Keywords PiedmontTrace elements in PM10 Spatial variability Chemometric processingInductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry

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Urban enhancement of PM10 bioaerosol tracers relative to background locations in the Midwestern United States

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Seasonal Variations and Sources of 17 Aerosol Metal Elements in Suburban Nanjing, China

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