Author(s)

Th. Kouimtzis, C. Samara & D. Voutsa

Abstract

In order to evaluate the presence of heavy and other metals in the area of Thessaloniki, air particulate matter and roadside dust samples were obtained at various sampling points located in the urban and industrial area of the city. The samples were analyzed by instrumental neutron activation and atomic absorption spectroscopy. Metals determined in TSP and inhalable particles were characterized with respect to their origin from natural or man-made emission sources. A receptor modeling approach was applied to identify and apportion sources of air particulate matter and heavy metals. Regarding the presence of heavy metals in roadside dust results showed elevated concentrations of Pb, Zn and Sb in the urban area, whereas in the industrial area

Keywords