Determination of trace elements in urban airborne particulates (PM₁₀) using energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) spectroscopy

Abstract

Assessment of the air quality in Newcastle upon Tyne, UK was performed by determining the trace element content in airborne particulates (PM10). Samples were collected over a 12 month period (March 2011 to April 2012) using two high volume air sampler provided with a PM10 size selective inlet. The concentrations of 6 elements (Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn) were determined. The mean concentrations of these elements varied widely across the elements with Zn showing the highest concentration (41.3 ± 42.8 ng/m3; ranging from 9.9 – 209.0 ng/m3) and Cr the least concentration (1.7 ± 0.9 ng/m3; ranging from 0.4 – 3.2 ng/m3). The total elemental content obtained in this work was compared with regulatory limit values for 4 of the elements determined and it was discovered that none exceeded the limit values. © JASEM