scholarly journals Geochemical and Mineralogical Characteristics of Airborne Particulate Matter in Relation to Human Health Risk

Minerals ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 10 (10) ◽  
pp. 866 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marzena Rachwał ◽  
Małgorzata Wawer ◽  
Mariola Jabłońska ◽  
Wioletta Rogula-Kozłowska ◽  
Patrycja Rogula-Kopiec
Keyword(s):  
Magnetic Susceptibility ◽  
Particulate Matter ◽  
Human Health ◽  
Magnetic Particles ◽  
Rank Order ◽  
Human Health Risk ◽  
Airborne Particulate Matter ◽  
Ambient Air ◽  
Average Concentration ◽  
Health Indices

The main objective of this research was the determination of the geochemical and mineralogical properties of particulate matter: TSP (total suspended particles) and, especially PM1 (particles with aerodynamic diameter not greater than 1 µm) suspended in the air of a selected urban area in southern Poland. Identification of the emission sources of metals and metalloids bound in TSP and PM1 as well as the assessment of potential risk of urban ambient air to human health using hazard indices was an additional aim of this investigation. The daily TSP and PM1 quartz fiber filters collected during heating season were subjected to mass magnetic susceptibility (χ) measurements, SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) observations and geochemical analyses. Obtained results revealed that the concentration of TSP and PM1 well correlated with their mass-specific magnetic susceptibility. The good relationship between the PM concentration and χ suggests that magnetic susceptibility measurements can be a good proxy of low-level atmospheric dust pollution. The rank order of potentially toxic elements (PTE) based on average concentration was Ba > Zn > Al > Fe > Pb > Mn > Ti > Cu > Cr > Ni >As > Cd > V > Tl, both for TSP and PM1. PM1/TSP ratios for PTE concentrations and χ were around or slightly above unity, which indicated that PM1 was the main carrier of PTE (with the exception of cadmium, copper and lead) and technogenic magnetic particles. The non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks were confirmed by very high values of human health indices.

scholarly journals Magnetic Emissions from Brake Wear are the Major Source of Airborne Particulate Matter Bioaccumulated by Lichens Exposed in Milan (Italy)

2020 ◽  
Vol 10 (6) ◽  
pp. 2073 ◽  
Author(s):  
Aldo Winkler ◽  
Tania Contardo ◽  
Andrea Vannini ◽  
Sergio Sorbo ◽  
Adriana Basile ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Magnetic Properties ◽  
Magnetic Susceptibility ◽  
Particulate Matter ◽  
Magnetic Particles ◽  
Chemical Elements ◽  
Airborne Particulate Matter ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
Airborne Particulate ◽  
Evernia Prunastri ◽  
Magnetic Analysis

The concentration of selected trace elements and the magnetic properties of samples of the lichen Evernia prunastri exposed for 3 months in Milan (Italy) were investigated to test if magnetic properties can be used as a proxy for the bioaccumulation of chemical elements in airborne particulate matter. Magnetic analysis showed intense properties driven by magnetite-like minerals, leading to significant correlations between magnetic susceptibility and the concentration of Fe, Cr, Cu, and Sb. Selected magnetic particles were characterized by Scanning Electron Microscope and Energy Dispersion System microanalyses, and their composition, morphology and grain size supported their anthropogenic, non-exhaust origin. The overall combination of chemical, morphoscopic and magnetic analyses strongly suggested that brake abrasion from vehicles is the main source of the airborne particles accumulated by lichens. It is concluded that magnetic susceptibility is an excellent parameter for a simple, rapid and cost-effective characterization of atmospheric trace metal pollution using lichens.

scholarly journals Toxic Organic Contaminants in Airborne Particles: Levels, Potential Sources and Risk Assessment

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (8) ◽  
pp. 4352
Author(s):  
Donatella Pomata ◽  
Patrizia Di Filippo ◽  
Carmela Riccardi ◽  
Federica Castellani ◽  
Giulia Simonetti ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Risk Assessment ◽  
Particulate Matter ◽  
Organic Contaminants ◽  
Human Health Risk ◽  
Airborne Particulate Matter ◽  
Principal Component ◽  
Cardiovascular Effects ◽  
Atmospheric Particulate Matter ◽  
Emission Source ◽  
Size Fractions

In the last years, many studies have focused on risk assessment of exposure of workers to airborne particulate matter (PM). Several studies indicate a strong correlation between PM and adverse health outcomes, as a function of particle size. In the last years, the study of atmospheric particulate matter has focused more on particles less than 10 μm or 2.5 μm in diameter; however, recent studies identify in particles less than 0.1 μm the main responsibility for negative cardiovascular effects. The present paper deals with the determination of 66 organic compounds belonging to six different classes of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in the ultrafine, fine and coarse fractions of PM (PM < 0.1 µm; 0.1 < PM < 2.5 µm and 2.5 < PM < 10 µm) collected in three outdoor workplaces and in an urban outdoor area. Data obtained were analyzed with principal component analysis (PCA), in order to underline possible correlation between sites and classes of pollutants and characteristic emission sources. Emission source studies are, in fact, a valuable tool for both identifying the type of emission source and estimating the strength of each contamination source, as useful indicator of environment healthiness. Moreover, both carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks were determined in order to estimate human health risk associated to study sites. Risk analysis was carried out evaluating the contribution of pollutant distribution in PM size fractions for all the sites. The results highlighted significant differences between the sites and specific sources of pollutants related to work activities were identified. In all the sites and for all the size fractions of PM both carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risk values were below acceptable and safe levels of risks recommended by the regulatory agencies.

scholarly journals Ambient Particulate Matter Air Pollution in Mpererwe District, Kampala, Uganda: A Pilot Study

2014 ◽  
Vol 2014 ◽  
pp. 1-7 ◽  
Author(s):  
Stephan Schwander ◽  
Clement D. Okello ◽  
Juergen Freers ◽  
Judith C. Chow ◽  
John G. Watson ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Particulate Matter ◽  
Air Quality ◽  
Pilot Study ◽  
Fine Particles ◽  
Airborne Particulate Matter ◽  
Personal Exposure ◽  
Ambient Air ◽  
Combustion Products ◽  
Carbonaceous Aerosol ◽  
Coarse Particles

Air quality in Kampala, the capital of Uganda, has deteriorated significantly in the past two decades. We made spot measurements in Mpererwe district for airborne particulate matter PM2.5(fine particles) and coarse particles. PM was collected on Teflon-membrane filters and analyzed for mass, 51 elements, 3 anions, and 5 cations. Both fine and coarse particle concentrations were above 100 µg/m3in all the samples collected. Markers for crustal/soil (e.g., Si and Al) were the most abundant in the PM2.5fraction, followed by primary combustion products from biomass burning and incinerator emissions (e.g., K and Cl). Over 90% of the measured PM2.5mass can be explained by crustal species (41% and 59%) and carbonaceous aerosol (33%–55%). Crustal elements dominated the coarse particles collected from Kampala. The results of this pilot study are indicative of unhealthy air and suggest that exposure to ambient air in Kampala may increase the burden of environmentally induced cardiovascular, metabolic, and respiratory diseases including infections. Greater awareness and more extensive research are required to confirm our findings, to identify personal exposure and pollution sources, and to develop air quality management plans and policies to protect public health.

Airborne Particulate Matter

2017 ◽  
pp. 202-223 ◽  
Author(s):  
Bhawna Dubey ◽  
Asim Kumar Pal ◽  
Gurdeep Singh
Keyword(s):  
Particulate Matter ◽  
Human Health ◽  
Global Climate Change ◽  
Global Climate ◽  
Airborne Particulate Matter ◽  
Airborne Particulate ◽  
Urban Centers ◽  
Population Number ◽  
Biological Entities ◽  
Toxic Trace Metals

Airborne particulate matter is considered to be most challenging environmental issues in the world today due to its impact on various atmospheric processes like regional and global climate change, ecosystem, agriculture and most importantly on human health in recent times. Analysis reveals that particulate matter contains various inorganic and organic compounds and biological entities and their secretions and toxic trace metals. The main regions affected are urban centers due to an increasing population, number of diverse industries, fossil fuel driven vehicles and various construction activities. The present chapter deals with the scenario of particulate matter, their sources of generation, size and their impact on human health and environment mainly in urban dwellings.

Airborne Particulate Matter

2018 ◽  
pp. 447-468 ◽  
Author(s):  
Bhawna Dubey ◽  
Asim Kumar Pal ◽  
Gurdeep Singh
Keyword(s):  
Particulate Matter ◽  
Human Health ◽  
Global Climate Change ◽  
Global Climate ◽  
Airborne Particulate Matter ◽  
Airborne Particulate ◽  
Urban Centers ◽  
Population Number ◽  
Biological Entities ◽  
Toxic Trace Metals

Airborne particulate matter is considered to be most challenging environmental issues in the world today due to its impact on various atmospheric processes like regional and global climate change, ecosystem, agriculture and most importantly on human health in recent times. Analysis reveals that particulate matter contains various inorganic and organic compounds and biological entities and their secretions and toxic trace metals. The main regions affected are urban centers due to an increasing population, number of diverse industries, fossil fuel driven vehicles and various construction activities. The present chapter deals with the scenario of particulate matter, their sources of generation, size and their impact on human health and environment mainly in urban dwellings.

scholarly journals Ambient Gaseous Pollutants in an Urban Area in South Africa: Levels and Potential Human Health Risk

Atmosphere ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 11 (7) ◽  
pp. 751 ◽  
Author(s):  
Oyewale Mayowa Morakinyo ◽  
Murembiwa Stanley Mukhola ◽  
Matlou Ingrid Mokgobu
Keyword(s):  
South Africa ◽  
Cancer Risk ◽  
Health Risk ◽  
Human Health ◽  
Human Health Risk ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
Ambient Air ◽  
Control Measures ◽  
Assessment Model ◽  
Gaseous Pollutants

Urban air pollution from gaseous pollutants is a growing public health problem in many countries including South Africa. Examining the levels, trends and health risk of exposure to ambient gaseous pollutants will assist in understanding the effectiveness of existing control measures and plan for suitable management strategies. This study determined the concentration levels and non-cancer risk of CO, SO2, NO2, and O3 at an industrial area in Pretoria West, South Africa. We utilised a set of secondary data for CO, NO2, SO2, and O3 that was obtained from a monitoring station. Analysis of the hourly monitored data was done. Their non-cancer risk (HQ) was determined using the human health risk assessment model for different age categories. The annual levels of NO2 (39.442 µg/m3), SO2 (22.464 µg/m3), CO (722.003 µg/m3) and the 8-hour concentration of CO (649.902 µg/m3) and O3 (33.556 µg/m3) did not exceed the South African National Ambient Air Quality Standards for each pollutant. The HQ for each pollutant across exposed groups (except children) was less than 1. This indicates that the recorded levels could not pose non-cancer risk to susceptible individuals.

Particulate Matter in Ambient Air

2007 ◽  
Vol 4 (4) ◽  
pp. 278-288 ◽  
Author(s):  
Reinhold Görgen ◽  
Udo Lambrecht
Keyword(s):  
Particulate Matter ◽  
Air Quality ◽  
Human Health ◽  
Ambient Air ◽  
Limit Values ◽  
Limit Value ◽  
European Institutions ◽  
Negative Effect ◽  
Time Extension ◽  
The Eu

AbstractNumerous studies have demonstrated the negative effect of particulate matter on human health. The EU therefore introduced ambitious limit values for particulate matter (PM10) in ambient air as early as 1999: an annual limit and a daily limit that can be exceeded on up to 35 days a year. These values are binding since 2005. The daily limit is still exceeded in many cities throughout Europe. Heated debates on the future of the daily limit are taking place at all levels of the EU in the context of the negotiations on the Commission's proposal on a new Air Quality Directive. Suggestions range from allowing a compliance time extension to increasing the number of days the daily limit can be exceeded, and abolition of the daily limit value. The deliberations have not yet been concluded, but the decisive European institutions have voiced support for keeping the daily limit while at the same time extending the compliance deadline. In this article, we will make the point that the problem can most probably be solved by allowing a compliance extension of around 5 years after the new directive enters into force. This would give the competent local authorities and the EU the time necessary to intensify their measures in order to comply with the daily limit in most areas where it is currently exceeded. An increase in the number of days the limit values may be exceeded, as called for by the European Parliament (EP), would therefore amount to an unnecessary lowering of the limit value.

scholarly journals Morphological and Chemical Properties of Particulate Matter in the Dammam Metropolitan Region: Dhahran, Khobar, and Dammam, Saudi Arabia

2017 ◽  
Vol 2017 ◽  
pp. 1-9 ◽  
Author(s):  
Bassam S. Tawabini ◽  
Taoreed T. Lawal ◽  
Abdulaziz Shaibani ◽  
Ashraf M. Farahat
Keyword(s):  
Saudi Arabia ◽  
Particulate Matter ◽  
Inductively Coupled Plasma ◽  
Chemical Properties ◽  
Airborne Particulate Matter ◽  
Optical Emission ◽  
Average Concentration ◽  
Metropolitan Region ◽  
X Ray ◽  
Concentration Levels

Characteristics of airborne particulate matter (PM) as well as its levels in air samples collected from selected sites within cities of Dhahran, Khobar, and Dammam, in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia, are investigated. Concentration levels of the 10 microns’ PM (i.e., PM10) are determined using the gravimetric technique. Morphological and chemical characteristics of the PM collected from the sampling cities are studied using Field-Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), and X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF). Moreover, levels and types of hazardous materials related to these samples are assessed using Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES). Results revealed that the average concentration levels of PM10 were approximately 177, 380, and 126 μg/m3 in Dhahran, Khobar, and Dammam, respectively. The structure of PM collected in Dhahran was mainly platy and rod-like shaped with a size between 2 and 6 μm, while PM collected in Khobar was mostly irregular in form, with a size range between 2 and 8 μm, and Dammam’s PM was rounded and between 1 and 3 μm in size. Both EDX and XRF results indicate relatively high weight % of C, O, Si, F, and Ca with lower weight % of Na, Mg, and K at the 3 cities. Finally, the study shows that Ba and Zn were the main trace metals associated with the collected PM in the 3 cities.

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