Large-scaled biomonitoring of trace element air pollution: goals and approaches

Abstract

The present paper addresses the challenges faced in large-scaled biomonitoring surveys on trace element air pollution. Goals and set-ups of the survey are discussed, and criteria for the selection of the biomonitor species are considered. The local sampling site and the variances in local elemental concentrations are reviewed as key basic units of the survey, put in the context of a measurable quality concept, thereby also using the total survey variance. Factor analysis is discussed as a tool for data processing, both for straightforward source recognition and for data clean-up (e.g. removal of effects from soil dusts) or source-profile isolation. Practical examples are given which underline the importance of multi-elemental determinations for survey data interpretation; nuclear multi-elemental and non-destructive techniques such as NAA, PIXE or XRF are indicated as principally suited for the necessary (routine) analysis of the survey's solid samples.