Chemical characterization of the PM10 fraction of airborne particulate matter in the urban atmosphere
Bagnoli, P.; Carrozzino, S.; Pisani, B.; Righini, F.
Journal of Environmental Pathology Toxicology and Oncology Official Organ of the International Society for Environmental Toxicology and Cancer 16(2-3): 219-225
1997
ISSN/ISBN: 0731-8898 PMID: 9276006 Document Number: 470669
This study examines the chemical composition of PM10, the thoracic fraction of atmospheric particulate matter. This fraction is characterized by a very complex composition and is able to penetrate the human organism corresponding to a "cut point" at the level of the larynx. We used a sampling device to separate the PM10 from other fractions with different aerodynamic behavior. The high volume sampler collected large amounts of material, making it easier to study the micropollutants. Furthermore, it met EPA performance specifications for the measurement of suspended PM10 fraction. We collected the samples during different metereological conditions in the urban area of the town of Leghorn in Tuscany, Italy. Two sites, characterized by different settings, were chosen in the city. Both sites were marked by intense motor vehicle traffic. A better chemical characterization of the collected material became possible using different analytical techniques. The use of large-size cellulose or glass fiber filters allowed us to subdivide the sample and to submit each portion to a different investigative technique. The PAH content of the PMIO fraction was examined, particularly for those compounds of toxicological interest. The concentrations of the compounds were evaluated by HPLC with diode array UV detection. We further determined the contents of various heavy metals from anthropic or telluric sources (Pb, Cu, Fe, Cr, Cd, Mn, V, and Ni) by means of an HGA Graphite Furnace AAS-Zeeman-Effect technique or AA-Flame spectrophotometry. The results of our experiment show that motor vehicle traffic is the prevailing pollution source. The metereological conditions also play a significant role. The samples taken closer to the industrial area of the town showed a slightly higher mean content of PM10 fraction. The concentrations of both heavy metals and PM10 were lower compared with equivalent data from other European cities.