DISTRIBUTION OF CHEMICAL ELEMENTS IN SOIL FROM CRN DRIM RIVER BASIN, REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA

The aim of this study was to investigate the distribution of chemical elements in topsoil and subsoil, focusing on the identification of natural and anthropogenic element sources in the area of the Crn Drim River Basin, Republic of Macedonia. For that purpose, by using sampling network of 5 × 5 km, 124 soil samples from 62 locations (topsoil and bottom soil) were collected. In total 60 elements were analysed, from which 18 elements (Ag, Al, B, Ba, Ca, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Li, Mg, Mn, Na, Ni, P, Pb, V и Zn) were analysed by inductively coupled plasma - atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) and an additional 42 elements were analysed by ICP - mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Multivariate statistical analysis was applied to the obtained data. Factor analysis applied to the ICP-AES results produced four geogenic fac-tors: F1 (Ba and K); F2 (Ag, Cd, Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn), F3 (Cr, Fe, Na, Ni and V) and F4 (Al, Ca, Mg and Mn). Data ob-tained from the distribution maps and data analysis on soil samples, indicate the natural occurrence of the analysed ele-ments as well as low concentrations of heavy metals in the studied area.

A Method for Evaluating and Principles for Developing a Map of the Productive Potential of Agricultural Land

Crop production is a highly complex process. It requires comprehensive knowledge about natural phenomena and agronomic treatments that provide plans with optimal conditions for growth and development. Crop yield is influenced by a variety of environmental factors, including availability of water, temperature and light. The main anthropogenic element in crop production is the shape of the plot which is determined by the land division plan. Farmers also have to undertake the relevant measures to ensure the appropriate soil pH, soil structure, nutrient content and microbial activity. The main objective of this study was to develop a method and principles for evaluating the productive potential of agricultural land, and to compile a map presenting the productive potential of agricultural land. The main aim was achieved through detailed goals. Model evaluation indicators and criteria, the sources of information used in the evaluation process as well as the stages of and principles for developing a map of the productive potential of agricultural land were described. The results of an evaluation performed on a selected research site were presented in graphical form in the Conclusions section.

Emission characters of particulate concentrations and dry deposition studies for incense burning at a Taiwanese temple

Suspended particulate concentrations were measured at the Tzu Yun Yen temple in the Taichung region of Taiwan. The temple performs traditional incense burning. A universal sampler and a micro-orifice uniform deposited impactor (MOUDI) sampler with a dry deposition plate were used to measure the particulate concentrations. The results show that the average PM2.5/PM10 ratio was 74% during the incense burning period at this temple. In addition, the average suspended particulate (PM10) element concentration of anthropogenic element Zn (495 ng/m3) was higher than the other anthropogenic elements (Pb, Mn, Ni, and Cd). Furthermore, the average mass size distribution was bimodal with major peaks occurring at 0.32-0.56 mm and 5.6-10 mm during the incense burning period. The dry deposition velocities of Cd used fine particulates (PM2.5) and suspended particulate (PM10) mode were 1.86 and 0.99 cm/s in this study, respectively.