Inorganic and organic pollutants in atmospheric aerosols : chemical composition and source apportionment

Abstract

This work is the first one conducted in Veneto region, Italy with collaboration of ARPAV including important organic (OC/EC and PAHs) and inorganic pollutants (trace elements), which were characterized for longer period of time in order to quantify the source contributions of PM2.5 at regional scale (Veneto) using receptor modelling [Factor Analysis]. 360 samples were collected from six major cities located in 6 Provinces during April 2012- February 2013. The results show that OC, EC, PAHs and Trace elements exhibited higher concentration during winter month in all measurement sites, suggesting that the stable atmosphere and lower mixing layer play important role for the accumulation of pollutant. Meteorological parameters especially wind velocity and temperature play significant role in pollutant accumulation from local sources. Finally, possible sources of particulate matter have been characterized using Conditional Bivariate Probability Function, diagnostic ratios and Factor Analysis and results indicated that biomass burning for household heating and cooking, followed by vehicular traffic, oil combustion and crustal are the main sources of particulate matter in Veneto region.