Abstract
Tree bark pockets were collected at four sites in the Czech Republic with differing levels of lead (Pb) pollution. The samples, spanning 1923–2005, were separated from beech ( Fagus sylvatica) and spruce ( Picea abies). Elevated Pb content (0.1–42.4 µg g − 1 ) reflected air pollution in the city of Prague. The lowest Pb content (0.3–2.6 µg g − 1 ) was found at the Kosetice EMEP “background pollution“ site. Changes in 206Pb/ 207Pb and 208Pb/ 206Pb isotope ratios were in agreement with operation times of the Czech main anthropogenic Pb sources. Shortly after the Second World War, the 206Pb/ 207Pb isotope ratio in bark pockets decreased from 1.17 to 1.14 and the 208Pb/ 206Pb isotope ratio increased from 2.12 to 2.16. Two dominant emission sources responsible for these changes, lignite and leaded petrol combustion, contributed to the shifts in Pb isotope ratios. Low-radiogenic petrol Pb ( 206Pb/ 207Pb of 1.11) lead to lower 206Pb/ 207Pb in bark pockets over time. High-radiogenic lignite-derived Pb ( 206Pb/ 207Pb of 1.18 to 1.19) was detected in areas affected by coal combustion rather than by traffic.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
